Below is an obituary from Nichols Funeral Home:
WILMINGTON, MA — Irene E. Saunders, 91, of Avon, Indiana and Wilmington, Massachusetts, passed away peacefully on March 2, 2026, surrounded by her family.
Born to Jacob Wicks and Elizabeth Benson, Irene was the youngest of 13 children. Her easy going nature, patience, and natural kindness were qualities that endeared her to all who knew her.
After graduating from Wilmington High School in 1953, she met the love of her life, Douglas C. Saunders, and together they made their home in Wilmington, where they raised their four children: Debbie and her husband Bob Scott of Wilmington, Kathy and her husband Norman Wilmott of Wilmington, Wendy and her husband Jim Tribou of Billerica, and Stephen & Linda Saunders of Indiana.
Irene devoted many years to raising her children, volunteering at the United Methodist Church, where they became members, and at one point helped in the leadership of the youth group. Later in life, Irene joined Compugraphic/AGFA, where she served as head of accounts payable for 25 years. She was dedicated, respected, and known for balancing work and family with quiet determination. She especially treasured time with her family, including her 11 grandchildren: Heather (Derek) Fullerton, Lindsey (James) Ness, Melissa (Tom) Repetto, Christopher (Christin) Tribou, Tyler (Haley) Tribou, Megan, and Mackenzie Saunders; and her four great-grandchildren: Hannah, Cameron, Owen, and Rosie.
In addition to her devotion to family, Irene enjoyed shopping, especially for clothes, shoes and jewelry accessories. She also collected Annalee Dolls made in Meredith, New Hampshire. Many happy memories were made on Lake Winnipesaukee, where the family spent years boating and maintained a dock at the Meredith Yacht Club. When she first retired, Irene and Doug purchased a travel trailer and spent the winter months in Florida with friends and family.
Irene fought cancer three times over the years, meeting each battle with dignity, courage, and resilience. She showed those around her what true strength looked like and always knew how to be there for her family, especially her husband.
After retirement, Irene and Doug made the difficult decision to relocate to Avon, Indiana, after Doug was diagnosed with cancer, so they could be closer to their son and his family.
While living in Indiana together, they celebrated their 50th wedding anniversary before his passing, a milestone reflecting their lifelong commitment to one another.
During her time in Indiana, Irene formed meaningful friendships and especially enjoyed time with her lunch bunch and Red Hat friends, who brought her laughter and companionship.
She was predeceased by her husband, Douglas, and her siblings Ernest, Lydia, twins Leslie and Lloyd, twins Ralph and Hubert, Stanley, Ethel, Theodore, Mary, and Louise. She is survived by her sister, Vonnie Welch of Arundel, Maine.
A Celebration of Life will be held at the United Methodist Church, 87 Church Street in Wilmington, Massachusetts, on Friday, May 1st at 11:00 AM.
In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the Alzheimer’s Association online at alz.org or by mail to: 320 Nevada Street, Suite 201, Newton, MA 02460.
Arrangements are under the direction of the Nichols Funeral Home, Wilmington. To leave a message of condolence for the family please visit our website at www.nicholsfuneralhome.com.
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