James Daniel Saunders, son of Daniel Pike and Thelma Maxine (McPheeters) Saunders, was born July 24, 1955, in Kansas City, Missouri. Jim grew up attending school in Kansas City and graduated from Blue Springs High School in 1973.

After completing high school, Jim enlisted in the United States Army in the summer of 1973. After proudly serving his country for a little over two years during the Vietnam War era, Jim was discharged in the winter of 1975.

Jim was married to Rhonda and would be blessed with his first son, Charles “CJ” Saunders. That marriage ended in divorce and then he was married to Whitney and was blessed with two more sons, Berry and Kalem Saunders. Jim and Whitney also divorced.

Jim made his home in Rock Port, Missouri. He was employed as a truck driver and also in manufacturing throughout his working years. In his free time, Jim enjoyed woodworking, building many toys, piggy banks, and gifts for his family. He was very involved with the Cub Scouts and served as a Boy Scout Leader. Jim also assembled model railroads.

After a courageous battle with cancer, Jim passed away at University Medical Center in Omaha, Nebraska, on Friday, September 5, 2025, having reached the age of 70 years, 1 month, and 12 days. He was preceded in death by his parents and stepfather, Ramie Arvile Maggard.

Those left to mourn his loss include his sons and daughters-in-law, Charles “CJ” and Julia Saunders of Auburn, Nebraska, Berry and Christina Saunders of Story City, Iowa, and Kalem and Cady Saunders of Auburn; grandchildren, Cheyenne, Tanner, Justin, Allianna, Dayton, Ehlena, Olivia, Aubrey, and Maggie; great-grandchild, Ryder; siblings, Jeanette (Greg) Hunziker of Lee’s Summit, Missouri, Edward (Annette) Saunders of Norwood, Missouri, and Susie (John) Launius of Lee’s Summit; and other relatives and friends.

A funeral service, officiated by Rev. Jackie Gfeller, was held Friday, September 12, 2025, at Hemmingsen Funeral Home in Auburn. Burial followed in Sheridan West Cemetery at Auburn. Services were entrusted to Hemmingsen Funeral Home.