Saunders, Eleanor 1942-2026 Osborn, Mo.

OSBORN, Mo. – Eleanor “Jeannie” Saunders, 83, Osborn, Missouri, passed away Tuesday, Jan. 20, 2026. She was born Aug. 25, 1942, in St. Joseph, to E.C. and Eleanor (Shannon) Harris.

Jeannie graduated from Plattsburg High School and attended William Jewell College and the University of Missouri, where she was majoring in elementary education with a minor in music. She taught elementary music in Maysville, Missouri, from 1964 to 1967.

On Jan. 26, 1964, she married John Saunders. He survives of the home.

Jeannie loved being a mother to her two sons. She was active as a leader in DeKalb County 4-H when they were young, and she loved to sing with her son Mark.

She was a member and elder of Wyatt Park Christian Church in St. Joseph. She also was a member of Beta Sigma Phi sorority.

Eleanor enjoyed antiques, watching basketball, and loved horses, her dog, Joy, and spending time with family.

She was preceded in death by her son, Mark Saunders; and her parents.

Survivors include her husband of 62 years, John; son, J. Lyle Saunders; grandsons, Calvin and Porter; daughter-in-law, Stacie Saunders; sister-in-law, Suzanne McCrea (M.L.); and friend, Amy Rush.

Farewell Services and Public Livestream 1 p.m. Monday, Jan. 26, Meierhoffer Funeral Home & Crematory. Interment Memorial Park Cemetery. The family will gather with friends 2 to 4 p.m. Sunday, Jan. 25, Meierhoffer Funeral Home & Crematory. The family suggests memorial contributions to Wyatt Park Christian Church or DeKalb County 4-H.

Online guest book and obituary at www.meierhoffer.com. As published in the St. Joseph News-Press.