Jerry Lee Saunders

  Jerry Lee Saunders, 84, passed away peacefully on Thursday, October 10, 2024, leaving behind a legacy of love, laughter, and a life well lived. Born on December 28, 1939, in Langley, Oklahoma, Jerry was the beloved son of Ross “Brownie” Saunders and Dennie Hood Saunders, whose passion for horses he inherited at an early age.

  As a boy, Jerry didn’t just admire horses—he lived and breathed them, following in his father's footsteps in the racehorse industry. He had a natural gift for training thoroughbreds and quarter horses, a talent that would become the cornerstone of a lifelong career. But Jerry wasn’t just a horseman; he was a storyteller. He loved to share memories of his youth—car racing, hunting, and, most importantly, the time spent with his family, both on and off the racetrack. He’d tell these tales with a twinkle in his eye and a laugh that could fill a room, leaving his loved ones with smiles as big as his own.

  It was at Rillito Park in Tucson, Arizona, that Jerry’s life truly took shape when he met Lynn, the love of his life and his equal in every way. She shared his passion for horses, working as a jockey for 25 years. Together, they built not only a successful career but a marriage that spanned over 54 years—years filled with adventure, partnership, and a deep, enduring love. Whether on horseback or in life, Jerry and Lynn were always side by side, a testament to their beautiful bond.

  Family, however, was Jerry’s greatest pride. He was more than a husband and father—he was the glue that held everyone together. Part-time chauffeur, part-time booking agent, part-time trainer, and full-time cheerleader, Jerry made sure his family always came first. His wife and daughter found success in barrel racing, while Jerry worked closely with his son, training hunting dogs and attending AKC Nite Hunt competitions. And, of course, no journey was complete without Jerry uncovering the best trade days and local diners, always in search of hidden treasures. Jerry was the heart and soul of his family, the steady anchor they could always rely on.

  His legacy lives on through the family he cherished: his loving wife, Lynn Saunders; daughter, Denny Ralls, and her husband, Bobby; son, Jerry Lee Saunders, Jr.; granddaughters, Deven Riggins and Jordan Cooke, along with her husband, Landon; and his two sweet great-granddaughters, Meryl and Lucy Cooke. Jerry’s extended family also remembers him fondly, including his cousin, Thelma Wilkerson, and Latricia, along with her husband, Jim Hardesty of Pryor, Oklahoma; Billie Wing, preceded in death by Eugene F. Wing and his children: Sharon Wing and David Wing; Betty Wing Neel Young and her children: Carol Wing Filby (Gary), Gary and Jeanna Wing, Carl and Sandy Wing, and Linda Wing. He will also be greatly missed by his best friend, Charlie Eaton, and his family.

  Though no services are planned at this time, Jerry’s larger-than-life spirit will live on in the hearts of everyone who was fortunate enough to know him. His warmth, humor, and endless love will forever shine through his family and friends, whose lives he touched in ways that will never be forgotten. 

  In lieu of flowers, the family invites you to share your stories, memories, and photos in remembrance of Jerry at the following website: https://www.forevermissed.com/jerryleesaunders.