'A light in the darkness': Joy Saunders dies at 105

Lunenburg's Joy Saunders, who made headlines in 2020 when she went on a series of walks to raise money for the VON, died on Friday at 105.

According to her death notice, Esther (Joy) Frances Saunders was born on Oct. 31, 1918.

Friend and broadcaster Nancy Regan said Saunders grew up in Montreal. Saunders was a model in her earlier days and also served with the Canadian Army, Regan said.

Saunders moved to Sydney, N.S., after meeting her husband. The couple had eight children.

Saunders moved to Lunenburg about 40 years ago after her husband died. One of her daughters lived there, Regan said.

Regan said Saunders, who had lost almost all of her vision, was not afraid of dying.

"When we did a video for her fundraiser in 2020, she said, 'I'm 101 and my claim to fame is old age. I just can't seem to die. I'm in the departure lounge, but the plane never comes in.'"

According to Regan, Joy inspired many with her walk. It was during the pandemic and the province was reeling from a mass shooting earlier that year.

"Not only did she raise a lot of money, but she raised the sense of optimism and hope within VON," Regan said. "Joy really was a light in the darkness and that meant more to her than you could ever imagine."

A news release from VON on Friday said Saunders had a profound impact on the province and the country.

The VON called her a "remarkable citizen and philanthropist." She received the Sovereign's Medal for Volunteers in recognition of her exceptional volunteer contributions to the VON in 2021.

Lunenburg Mayor Jamie Myra and Saunders were almost neighbours. Myra said Saunders made significant contributions to the town.

Myra said he went to her home last year to present her with a certificate from the town on her 105th birthday.

Describing her death as a big loss to the entire community, Myra said her children and grandchildren are continuing her legacy of service.