Mary Frances James

Born on Christmas Day, 1938 in Washington, DC, Frances (as she was affectionately known), was the beloved daughter of Walter and Mary (Turvey) Saunders, who instilled in her, a strong sense of love and resilience, that she carried throughout her life.

She spent her formative years in Arlington, VA and later moved to Bristow, VA.

Frances was a devoted mother. She provided endless amounts of love, support and wisdom. She found joy in her roles as a daughter, sister, mother, grandmother, great-grandmother, building memories with each of her loved ones that will be cherished forever.

Frances worked for the Federal Government and retired from the Department of State.

After retirement, Frances worked part-time for St. James Catholic School After-Care Program, where she enjoyed the innocence and energy of the children.

She also made wonderful friends and was a loyal and trusted friend to many at the Falls Church Community Center. Upon moving to Bristow, she immersed herself in the Dunbarton Community, where she cherished and nurtured many new friendships. Frances enjoyed activities like bocce ball, Rummikub, and discovered her favorite past time, water volleyball.

At the holidays, she baked and delivered cakes to the Fire Department to show her appreciation for their community service.

Frances was passionate about several organizations including Al-Anon and St. Jude. She was also passionate about her Catholic Faith and prayed the rosary daily for her family and friends.

As a DC native, she loved the Washington Redskins and the Washington Nationals, but not as much as she loved her ice cream and other sweets. However, her main love was for her family.

She is survived by her Daughters: Theresa Murphy and Jodie Edwards, Granddaughters: Melissa Murphy, Michaela Murphy and Rachel Edwards, and Great-Granddaughter: Maeve Murphy. Siblings: Barbara Newlond, Thomas Saunders, Carl Saunders, Michael Saunders (Harry Pong), James Saunders, and Elizabeth Louise Bowers (Franklin), Sister-In-Laws: Nancy Saunders, Shirley Saunders, Beverly Saunders, and many nieces and nephews.

She is preceded in death by her parents and siblings: Walter Saunders Jr, Richard Saunders, William Saunders, Robert Saunders (Marjorie), Brother-In-Law Roger Newlond, and Honey, our beloved pet.

Frances will be celebrated at a Catholic Mass, Wednesday, November 6th at 10am, with burial immediately following at Fairfax Memorial Cemetery.

Flowers may be sent to Murphy’s Funeral Home, 1102 West Broad Street, Falls Church, VA 22046, to be set-up at the church or donations may be made to www.niaaa.nih.gov.

A funeral service for Mary will be held Wednesday, November 6, 2024 from 10:00 AM to 11:00 AM at St James Catholic Church, 905 Park Ave, Falls Church, VA 22046. Followed by burial from 12:00 PM to 12:30 PM at Fairfax Memorial Park, 9900 Braddock Rd, Fairfax, VA 22032.