The Virginian-Pilot,  - January 6, 2002

The heavens are shining more brightly for a new star, Susan Belding Saunders joined the galaxy Jan. 4, 2002. Though she was on this earth far too short a time, she touched many, many lives.

Susan had a megawatt smile and lit up a room with her laughter and wit. She regularly practiced random acts of kindness, was generous to a fault, and lived life to its fullest.

Born Aug. 10, 1949, to J.D. and Elaine Belding, she graduated from Cradock High School and attended Tidewater Community College and Virginia Commonwealth University. It was at VCU that she met her perfect soul mate, Karl M. Saunders, to whom she was married for 33 years.

Susan had many gifts and interests which she shared with her family and friends. She was a talented poet and horticulturist; she was a businesswoman and co-owner of Absolute Sales until she became ill; she loved the color purple, children and animals though not necessarily in that order; she was a devoted, loving friend, aunt, daughter, sister and wife; she infused her zest for life and spirit of love in everyone she met.

Susan saw possibilities and potential everywhere. She was always upbeat, positive and had a kind word to say about everyone.

As she spreads her purple gossamer fairy wings and soars to the heavens above she leaves behind her husband, Karl M. Saunders; mother, Elaine Belding of Newport News; brother, Jon Belding and sister-in-law Yvonne of Portsmouth; sister, Karen Belding of Hampton; niece, Laurie Metzger and husband Rob; great-niece, Madison Metzger of Portsmouth; nephew, Todd Belding of Chesapeake; and a multitude of cousins, nieces, nephews and friends.

Susan grew into a wonderful, kind and generous woman and though she is gone from our sight she will always be with us - in twinkling starlight, in a warm summer breeze, in spring's first blossom, or on a sandy beach - we will always be surrounded by her love.

The family would like to thank all who helped with prayers, love and laughter throughout her illness. Her ''angels'' were of great comfort to her.