Obituary of Alva Saunders

Alva Sharon Saunders (Archibald), 74, passed over peacefully on Thursday, May 9, 2024. Born in Pictou on December 2, 1949 and raised in Hopewell by loving parents, the late Marguerite (Collie) and Alvin Archibald.

As a young adult, Alva, graduated from the vocational school in Stellarton. Exploring different career paths throughout her years, eventually she found the career that combined her love of the outdoors, travel, and people as a traffic controller.  Alva worked many years with numerous crews.  Her adventures and co-workers from SW Weeks Construction being some of her fondest memories she spoke about. In her spare time she loved playing the piano, card games and reading.

A loving mother and grandmother, Alva was always right there cheering on her children. Filled with pride and never missing a moment to share their most recent wins whether it be on the local field or the National Special Olympics tracks.

She will be lovingly remembered by her children Shannon MacLean, New Glasgow; Dwayne Saunders, Cheticamp; Stacey Saunders, New Glasgow and Derek Saunders, New Glasgow, granddaughter Karmen MacLean, Halifax, and her two chosen sons Bryan Ward and Patrick MacLean.

She is also survived by brother-in-law’s Alvin MacKay; John Saunders (Alice); Richard Vance, sister-in-law’s Eileen Turner; Evva Melvin (Ivan); Debbie MacKay; and many nieces and nephews.

Alva was predeceased by her best friend and husband William 'Bill' Saunders, parents Marguerite and Alvin Archibald, birth mother who she shared many lovely memories with later in life when they found each other, Betty McGowan, uncle Fraser Collie, aunt Pearl Smith, brother-in-law’s Charles, George and David MacKay, sister-in-law’s Janet Vance and Claudia MacKay and in-laws Christena (Reekie) and Alvin MacKay.

Her family will receive visitors on Friday, May 17th from 4-5:30pm followed by her celebration of life service at 5:30 pm located at Summer Street Industries in New Glasgow. Graveside Reflection and Burial will be in Hopewell Cemetery on Saturday May 18th at 2:00pm, friends and family are welcome to attend.  

The family would like to say a special thanks to the staff at The Mira in Truro and the staff and management of Summer Street Industries. As well, to a few special guardian angels on this earth, Cathy, Chris, Jean, Sandra and Dave.

Family flowers only, donations in her memory may be made to Special Olympics Pictou County, Summer Street Industries, Highland Community Residential Services or a charity of your choice.

"The world changes from year to year, our lives from day to day, but the love and memory of you, shall never pass away."