Obituary of Damion Lee Saunders

Damion L. Saunders, 43, of Oriskany Falls, passed away July 19th, 2020, peacefully at home, with his loving wife and sister at his side. Damion was born September 2, 1976 in Erie, PA. He graduated from Clinton Central School in 1995 and became a NY State Certified Welder, starting his own welding and fabrication business, and passing the legacy down to his son Riley J. Saunders who was also recently certified. He was a former member of Paris Hill Fire Department, earning the Fireman of the Year award. Damion wed Shelby Henty in September 2019. He attended Living Faith Bible Church in Sauquoit NY. A strong work ethic along with Saunders determination helped him to build a successful welding and fabrication business. It was the same determination that fueled his battle against chondrosarcoma, traveling to NY and Houston for treatment. Damion was a man of faith who never lost sight in the Lord and worked hard to provide for his family. He cherished spending time with his family, especially his children, honoring his country and his Lord and Savior. With the strength of the Lord, he found time to relax with and provide for his family, and he was known for his generous spirit, often lending a helping hand to those in need. He is survived by his wife, Shelby Saunders; Proud father of his children, Riley and Liza Saunders, and their mother, Geri A. Cook, all of Oriskany Falls; parents, Theodore and Kathleen Saunders, of Clinton; maternal grandmother, Mary Perdue, of North East, PA; sister, Angela Storey, and niece and nephew Isabelle and Xavier, of Oneida, NY; mother and father-in-law, Ruth and Ward Henty and grandmother, Mildred Henty, all of Knoxboro, NY; sisters-in-law, Carrie Henty of Rome and Cheryl Szewczyk of Waterville; and numerous aunts, uncles, and cousins. He was predeceased by his paternal grandparents, Theodore and Elizabeth Saunders, of Ripley, NY; maternal grandparents, Leslie Perdue of Ripley, NY and Gloria Parr of Port Charlotte FL. Damion’s family wants to express our deepest gratitude for the countless people who supported him throughout his journey with financial gifts, meals, visits, cards and prayers. He was always humbled by all who supported him. The family is also grateful to hospice, especially Irene for her fellowship and the gift of her presence during this difficult time. Calling hours will be held at 10 am on Monday, July 27, 2020 at MKJ Farms at 6844 Hughes Road in Deansboro, with service at 11 following and light refreshments to follow. Please respect the current social distancing guidelines. In lieu of flowers, donations will be accepted for a scholarship in Damions’ name.