Frances C Saunders

Born on June 12, 1936, on the picturesque island of Key West, Florida, Frances Cecilia Castillo was a treasured daughter of Cecilia and Francisco Castillo. From an early age, she radiated love, kindness, and wisdom, becoming a beacon of light and warmth to all who knew her.

Frances dedicated her life to nurturing her family, uplifting her friends, and serving her community with grace and compassion. She spent her formative years in the Key West school system, building the foundation for a life filled with love, purpose, and service.

Her journey eventually took her north to New Jersey, where she began to write the beautiful story of her family. Frances married Jimmy Lee Johnson, and their union was blessed with three loving children: Kay Fields (Maurice), James “Poppa” Johnson (Tracey), and Donna Walker (James).

Later, Frances found her soulmate in Norman Saunders, the love of her life. Together, they welcomed two cherished children, Whitney Saunders (Rhonda) and Brendan Saunders, along with two beloved stepchildren, Paul Smith and Lisa Kentle. United in love and devotion, Frances and Norman created a warm and nurturing home, raising their seven children with unwavering dedication and instilling in them the timeless values of family, faith, and unity.

Frances had a remarkable work ethic and a heart that touched everyone she met. She worked at RCA, showcased her exceptional culinary talents at the Martin Luther King Center, and later excelled as a Supervisor at Toys “R” Us. Wherever she went, Frances left a legacy of kindness, skill, and dedication, earning the respect and affection of all who crossed her path.

Her life was defined by her boundless love for others and her unique ability to make everyone feel special. Whether it was her delectable meals, her straightforward and heartfelt advice, or her infectious laughter, Frances created deep connections with all who knew her. Along the way, she became a “bonus mom” and grandmother to many, including Victoria “Cookie” Harvey, Charles Davidson, and Beverly Murdock.

An avid crafter, Frances found joy in creating beautiful crocheted pieces, from delicate baby sets to king-size blankets that reflected the warmth of her spirit. She also loved spending quiet moments immersed in her favorite Westerns, a passion that brought her great comfort and joy.

Her greatest pride and joy were her grandchildren: Brandon Jones, Ricco Jones, Kiley Jones, LaKay Hodges, Jaimye DeTorres, Xavier Walker, Bryan Farrington, Jordan Johnson, Devon Saunders, and Nigel Saunders. She cherished every moment spent with them and her 11 great-grandchildren, creating countless memories that will forever live in their hearts.

Frances is preceded in death by her parents, Cecilia and Francisco Castillo; her beloved husband, Norman Saunders; her brothers Marvin Castillo, Thomas Dean Castillo, Francisco Castillo; and her grandson, Kiley Jones. She is survived by her her loving children, grandchildren, great-grandchildren, her siblings: Almoveta Saunders, Claudette Bastian, Joyce Logan, Hilda Williams, Shirley McBee, Randall Castillo, Michael Castillo, Warren Castillo, Grenville Castillo, and Joseph Castillo; and a host of nieces, nephews, honorary family members, and dear friends.

Though our hearts are heavy with the loss of Frances, we find comfort in the love she shared so freely and the beautiful example of a life well lived. Her legacy of love, strength, and wisdom will continue to shine brightly in all who were blessed to know her.

"Those we love don’t go away; they walk beside us every day”