Thomas F. Saunders, 74, of New Bedford died Saturday June 29, 2013 at home surrounded by his family. He was the husband of Judith (Marois) Saunders.
Born in New Bedford, the son of the late Capt. Herman R. and Matilda M. (O'Reilly) Saunders, he lived in New Bedford for most of his life.
Mr. Saunders was formerly employed as a corrections officer for Bristol County Sheriff's Department for many years, and later was employed as senior custodian at Keith Middle School.
He enjoyed freshwater fishing and was an avid Boston Red Sox fan.
Survivors include his wife; three children, Thomas F. Saunders, Jr., Marybeth Finnerty and her husband Kevin, and Matthew A. Saunders; two brothers, Herman R. Saunders, Jr. and Daniel J. Saunders; two sisters, Mary M. Welch and Joan M. Liarikos; three grandchildren, Jonathan and Emma Finnerty and Noah Saunders; and many nieces and nephews.
He was the brother of the late Katherine F. Sullivan, Albert E. Saunders, John W. "Jack" Saunders, Paul F. Saunders, and Richard T. Saunders.
His Funeral Mass will be celebrated on Wednesday at 9 AM at Holy Name of the Sacred Heart of Jesus Church. Visiting hours will be on Tuesday from 4-8 PM at the Saunders-Dwyer Home for Funerals, 495 Park St., New Bedford. For directions and guestbook, please visit www.saundersdwyer.com.