Richard Sheldon Saunders,

Richard Sheldon Saunders, Jr., 58, of Gulfport, died on Tuesday, November 6, 2012. Mr. Saunders was born in Charlotte, NC and had been a resident of Gulfport for the past 35 years. He was a veteran of the US Air Force and worked as a jet engine diesel mechanic up until he fell ill. Mr. Saunders was a member of the Boy Scouts and achieved the youngest Eagle Scout in the state of Massachusetts during his time. Mr. Saunders is preceded in death by his father, Richard Sheldon Saunders, Sr. Survivors include his mother, Lorraine Ruddoch Saunders and his sister, Dr. Chel Saunders of Saucier. A graveside service will be held on Wednesday, November 14, 2012 at 10:00 a.m. at Biloxi National Cemetery. Memorials may be made to: St. Jude Children's Research Hospital, 501 St. Jude Place, Memphis, TN 38105. Bradford-O’Keefe Funeral Home, O’Neal Road, Gulfport, is in charge of arrangements.