John A. Saunders

John Anthony Saunders (Dad, Rocko, PawPaw) 84, of Smithville, Texas, passed away on January 28th, 2025. Born on November 11th, 1940, John was the son of Lillian Augusta Mitchell Saunders and Clarence Taylor Saunders. He graduated from Smithville High School and went on to pursue his passion for baseball on a college scholarship as a pitcher at Allen Academy in Bryan, TX.

After completing his education, John returned to Smithville, where he settled down and married Dianna Dawn McClure Saunders. Together, they raised two sons: Nathan L. Saunders and Scott A. Saunders, Sr. John was preceded in death by his beloved wife, his parents, and his siblings C.T., Lynn, and Karen. He leaves behind his children, as well as his brothers and sisters: Gwen, Robert, Mark, and Gary; his grandchildren Scott Jr., Tamara, Anthony, and Collin; and his great-grandchildren Brinley, Ruby, Hazel, Rosaleigh, Penelope, and Ily.

John's professional life was centered around the railroad industry. He worked for the Katy and MKT railroads, eventually retiring from Union Pacific Railroad. John was a dedicated advocate for his fellow workers, serving as the General Chairman of the United Transportation Union and the first Chairman of the Union Pacific Caucus. His leadership helped secure a bright future for railroad employees and their families, both in the years past and for generations to come. 

A faithful member of the First Presbyterian Church and the W.J. Nixon Masonic Lodge 421 in Smithville, John’s community involvement went beyond his career. He was known for his love of family, friends, coffee, and baseball—particularly his passion for the Houston Astros. John also enjoyed volunteering at the Born Again Emporium and cherished time spent with his six great-granddaughters, who always kept him on his toes.

John’s home was always a welcoming place for those he considered "extended family." To know John was to love him. His kindness, generosity, patience, and sense of humor touched the lives of many, and he will be deeply missed by all who knew him.

Details for John’s memorial service will be announced at a later date.