Carol Jean Saunders

Carol Jean Saunders, a cherished soul and a beloved matri, was born on June 6, 1947, in Gallup, New Mexico. She departed from this earthly realm on September 10, 2025, in the serene embrace of Continental Divide, New Mexico, leaving behind a tapestry of memories woven with love, laughter, and an undying passion for life.

Throughout her illustrious career, Carol wore many hats that showcased her diverse talents and unwavering spirit. She skillfully navigated the realms of bookkeeping, served as an astute dispatcher, undertook the intricate art of tax preparation, and dedicated her hands and heart to the cherished craft of long-arm quilting. Each profession not only provided sustenance but also enriched her life with connections and opportunities to uplift those around her, notably aiding low-income families by providing free and reduced fee tax services.

An esteemed graduate of Gallup High School, her roots were entwined with her community, where she became a respected member of various organizations that echoed her love for quilting. Carol's involvement with the Mt. Taylor Quilt Guild, McKinley County Quilt Guild, Thoreau Senior Center, and The New Mexico Council on Aging reflected her commitment to fostering community bonds. Additionally, her contributions to Little House of Quilts and Carol’s Bookkeeping, along with her efforts in Quilts of Valor and the Top of the World Water Association, illustrated a life devoted to service and creativity.

In her leisure, Carol cherished the simple joys that life had to offer. She found immense pleasure in the gentle art of quilting, camping excursions that filled her spirit with adventure, and moments spent gathered around the warmth of her shop. Lake Powell, with its tranquil waters, became a backdrop for unforgettable memories, as did the rhythm of dancing and the delight of spending cherished time with her beloved grandchildren and great-grandchildren.

Carol's legacy endures in the hearts of her daughters, Denise Cionelo and Charlene Reaux, her stepson, Jimmy Saunders (Liz Saunders), and the many grandchildren and great-grandchildren who were fortunate enough to know her love. She is reunited in spirit with her devoted husband, Billy Saunders, whose presence remains a cherished memory in the hearts of all who knew them.

A Celebration of Life to honor Carol will be held at the Elks in Grants, New Mexico, on September 21, 2025, from 3:00 PM to 5:00 PM. It will be a time for all whose lives she touched to gather and reflect on the profound impact she made, ensuring that her spirit continues to shine brightly through each of their stories.

As we remember Carol Jean Saunders, let us carry forward her legacy of compassion, creativity, and community, celebrating the moments that made her life a vibrant quilt of beautiful experiences.