Harry Mark Saunders, JR.

Harry Mark Saunders Jr., age 56 was born to Harry “Doc” Saunders and Gloria Saunders on February 9, 1969, in Roanoke, Virginia. Mark as he was affectionately known, departed this life unexpectedly on December 13, 2025, at Mount Carmel East Hospital. His tremendous loss has left his wife, family and friends completely devastated.

From an early age, Mark displayed a love for music, dancing, laughter and connection traits that would define him throughout his life. Mark was a believer and had a strong faith in the Lord.

Mark graduated from Beechcroft High School, where he was a member of the basketball team. He attended The Ohio State University, remaining a lifelong Buckeye with unwavering school pride. In 1991, Mark became a proud member of Iota Phi Theta Fraternity, Incorporated Beta Mu Chapter.

Mark was employed at Cardinal Health Distribution Center, where he was known for his strong work ethic, easygoing sprit and someone you could always talk to. In addition to his professional career, he was a licensed barber.

In 2006, Mark was introduced to the love of his life and soulmate Rise’ Respes, through their mutual special friend Gardenia Persons. They were united in marriage in 2008 and together they shared nearly 20 beautiful years filled with love, laughter, travel and the simple joy of each other’s company. Their bond was one of deep companionship, mutual respect, and devotion.

Mark’s passion for music began at a young age when he learned to play the clarinet. Music remained central to his life, and he could often be found in his “studio” creating beats. Mark was a great dancer, known for lighting up any room with his moves and infectious energy.

Mark loved fishing at Buckeye Lake and spent many years participating in a bowling league, enjoying both the sport and the comraderie it brought. A devoted sports fan, Mark proudly supported The Ohio State Buckeyes and was a die-hard Philadelphia Eagle’s fan. He frequently sported his Eagle’s gear and took great pride in receiving an unforgettable birthday gift when they won the Super Bowl this year.

Above all else, Mark was a people person. He never met a stranger, greeted everyone with warmth, and was known for his infectious smile, kindness, and genuine spirit. 

He was preceded in death by his father, Harry “Doc” Saunders; his grandmothers, Wilhelmenia M. Hubbard and Ethel “Pedie” Saunders; and his grandfather, Calvin Coolidge Saunders, Jr.

Mark leaves to cherish his memory his beloved wife Rise’ Saunders; his mother, Gloria Saunders; his mother-in-law, Sheryll Draper; his brother Anthony Saunders; his sisters, Camille Saunders and Candace (Tony) Bosley, all of Columbus, Ohio. He is also survived by his brother-in-law, James (Linda) Bey-Respes of Middletown, Delaware.  He is also survived by his uncles Timothy Saunders, Roy Saunders, Michael Saunders, Anthony Saunders, Randy Saunders, Terry Saunders and Lonnie Saunders, all of Atlanta, Georgia, William Blackwell Jr. and Robert (Carol) Blackwell of Philadelphia, Pennsylvania. His aunts include Angela Reese Jones of Atlanta, Georgia; Ernestine (Edward) Cromartie, Lynette Draper and Shawn Draper all of Philadelphia, Pennsylvania.

Mark’s legacy continues through his loving nieces: Keyiera Bosley, Keybrina Bosley, Harmonie Saunders, Neyanna Broadnax, Nyla Broadnax, and Jasmine Bey-Respes; and nephews: Markel Allen, Anthony Saunders, Jr., Isaiah Saunders, Nyzaya Baptiste, and Nacere Broadnax. He was a proud great-uncle to Cayden Allen and Ka’Liyah Evans whom he was Godfather to. Mark also leaves behind a host of cousins, extended family and friends, including his best friend Anthony “Ant-Digital” (Robin) Michaels of Columbus, Ohio. He will be greatly missed by all.

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