Rowena Fern Cavell Saunders (née Loveless), age 72, of Woodstock, Newfoundland, passed away unexpectedly on Sunday, March 8, 2026, leaving behind a family who loved her deeply and a home filled with a lifetime of memories.

Born September 18, 1953, in Seal Cove, Fortune Bay, to Leslie and Bride Loveless, Mom built her life around the things that mattered most — her faith in God, love, family, and making sure the people around her felt cared for. Her devotion to God guided her every day and was the foundation of the warmth and kindness she shared with everyone she met.

On November 8, 1971, she married the love of her life, Edward Saunders. Their marriage was one of true partnership and devotion, and together they shared 54 years of love, laughter, and family.

She was a devoted mother to her three children: Andy Saunders(Shelly), Lee-Ann Milley (Chris) and Jill Guyette (Ross). She also held a special place in her heart for her step-son, Corey Burton(Stacey).

Being Mom was one of her greatest joys, but becoming Nan was something that truly lit up her life. She leaves behind eleven cherished  grandchildren: Anna (Chad), Jake (Jessica), Matt, Lezlee-Ann (Max), Jorja, Ridge (Maddie), Ava, Emma, Zayden, TJ, and Hunter; and two great-grandchildren, Karlee and Kailee, who brought her endless pride and happiness.

Mom had a gift for the simple things that made life feel warm and full. She loved crocheting and could often be found creating something special. Her garden and her trees brought her great happiness, and she cared for them the same way she cared for everything else in her life — with patience, pride, and gratitude to God for the beauty of His creation.

Her kitchen was the heart of the home. She loved feeding her family, and nothing made her happier than a table full of the people she loved. There was almost always something sweet baking, and you could count on there being treats around to share. Those small gestures were just another way she showed her love, reflecting the faith and generosity that guided her life.

She was predeceased by her parents, Leslie and Bride Loveless; her brothers, Morris, Alvin, and Gary Loveless; her parents-in-law, Charles and Miriam Saunders; and a number of brothers- and sisters-in-law.

Left with fond and loving memories are her devoted husband, Edward; her children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren; her brother, Berkley Loveless; her sister, Christine Walters (Junior); siblings-in-law Pearl Loveless, Ivy Regular (Doug), Alvina Galloway (Solomon), Cora Pollard, Harvey Saunders (Elaine), Vera Norman (Rick), Classie Doyle (Larry), and Maxine Downey; as well as countless nieces, nephews, extended family, and friends.

More than anything, Mom loved her family and her faith. She created a home where everyone felt welcome, cared for, and loved, living a life devoted to God that inspired those around her. The love and faith she shared will remain the legacy she leaves behind.

She will be deeply missed, forever loved, and always remembered by the family who were blessed to call her Mom and Nan.

Resting peacefully in God's care.

The public visitation will take place on Sunday, March 15, 2026 from 2:00PM - 4:00PM and 6:00PM - 8:00PM at Sunset Memorial Funeral Home, 22 Main Street, Baie Verte, NL.

Funeral service for family and friends will take place 1:00PM on Sunday, March 22, 2026 at Sunset Memorial Funeral Home, 22 Main Street, Baie Verte, NL

Funeral arrangements have been entrusted to Sunset Memorial Funeral Home, 22 Main Street, Baie Verte, NL