Gerald Benjamin Saunders, Jr.

Gerald Benjamin Saunders, Jr., affectionately known as Ben, Big Daddy, Catfish, Beanie Ben, and Mr. B, passed away peacefully on Friday, May 3, 2024, at the age of 78 surrounded by loved ones at his home in Columbus, Georgia. He was a devoted husband, father, grandfather, friend, and community servant who will be deeply missed by all who knew him.

Born on January 31, 1946 in Columbus, Georgia, Ben was the son of Gerald Benjamin Saunders and Charlotte Alexander Saunders. He attended Columbus High School and Gordon Military College in Barnesville, Georgia before graduating from Columbus College. Ben had a passion for collecting, whether it was automobiles (particularly his beloved convertibles, corvettes, Indy Pace Car, and '57 Chevy) or beanie babies earning him the name Beanie Ben. His family will always cherish the wonderful collection of memories he provided.

He was a Damn Good Dawg who attended games between Georgia and Auburn here in Columbus while he was growing up. He routinely attended Georgia football games, both home and away throughout his lifetime. Bulldog Ben will always continue to support his Georgia Bulldogs from the Sky Club.

Ben was a pillar of the community, known for his generosity and willingness to lend a helping hand with an unmatched sense of humor and smile almost to the point where it was tough to be serious. Much of his work in the community was unrecognized and accomplished behind the scenes as he was closing in on his 47th chip for those who know and love Catfish. He was a cherished member of Grace Presbyterian Church and spent many years as a Rotarian. Ben always appreciated adventures and road trips whether near or far with family and friends. For many years, he bravely fought kidney disease and cognitive decline, but he always remained positive and full of life.

In addition to his parents, Ben was preceded in death by his loving spouse, Suzanne Henry Saunders, and sister, Nancy Saunders Smith. He is survived by his five children: Elizabeth Cottrell (Chad), Gerald Saunders III (Jodi), Reynolds Saunders (Tara), Caroline Smith (Kip), and Cameron Saunders (Lucy), as well as 11 adored grandchildren. He is also survived by his sister, Alex Saunders, and brother, Dicky Saunders (Kay).

A graveside funeral service will be held on Wednesday, May 8, 2024, at 10:00 AM EST at Parkhill Cemetery with visitation at Grace Presbyterian Church to follow. In lieu of flowers, donations can be made in Ben's memory to Grace Presbyterian Church, House of T.I.M.E., PAWS Humane, or a charity of your choice. The family thanks tremendously the help of Miriam, Jerome, Kim, and all of Heart 2 Home Health Care for looking after Ben for years.