Joe Thomas Saunders

MOORE - Joe Tom Saunders, age 92, passed away peacefully with family by his side in the early hours of February 13, 2024 in OKC, OK. On January 5, 1932, Buddy or J.T. as he was known as a child, was the youngest son born to Pearl Jesse Rouse and John Thomas Saunders. Joe’s father passed away before he was born, and Joe was raised in Foster, OK by his mother and step father, Jodie Wauls, along with his five siblings: Mary Irene Shirley, Faye Mitchell, Bonnie Bernice Bailey, Audrey Eula Christ, and John Alger Saunders.

There have been many pivotal life experiences and events throughout Joe’s years on this earth. He graduated from Davis High School in 1950, and enlisted in the Navy the following year. He then attended the University of Oklahoma to pursue a degree in geology. Through his work in the field of geology, Joe was able to take on a great career working on oil drilling wells. This led him to Sterling, OK. where he met Linda Decker Saunders, who became his wife of 64 years. They both liked to say that he had too many meals at the T.C. Coffee Shop in Rush Springs, OK. where Linda worked at the time. Joe and Linda enjoyed traveling through many states together as they grew their family and raised two wonderful sons, Chris and Craig. Fishing on the family farm was one of Joe’s most enjoyable pastimes.

Most important and dear to Joe’s heart was his service to God and his desire to share the Bible. One of Joe’s ministries was to deliver donated food to those in need as well as other non-profit organizations. His passion for sharing food began as a young child- he did not want to see food wasted, or watch others go without. As a child he delivered milk and regularly shared food with tourists in Turner Falls. Joe continued this important work up until his last day on this earth when he called another volunteer to make sure a woman received a loaf of bread.

Family and faith have been the foundations upon which Joe lived his life. One of his dearest dreams has been to see the Lord Jesus, and to see his earthly dad. Although Joe has left behind his loving wife, two sons and countless many cousins, nieces and nephews, be assured that Joe not only wants his family but all of those he touched to have a relationship with the Lord.

An 11:00 a.m. service celebrating Joe Saunders’ life will be held on Friday, February 16th at Emmaus Baptist Church; 16001 S Western Ave. OKC, OK. Please join family and friends at Emmaus for lunch immediately following the celebration.