Vivian Jean Saunders

Vivian J. Saunders
February 22, 1936 – March 9, 2026

Vivian J. Saunders, a lifelong resident of Bridgeport Connecticut, passed away quietly on March 9, 2026 at the age of 90. Born on February 22, 1936, Vivian was the daughter of Ruth (Mathews) Rosario and Eduardo Rosario. She grew up in central Bridgeport, “The Hollow”, and attended St. Augustine School and Central High School before marrying the love of her life, Joseph N Saunders Jr. in 1955.

A Life Defined by Family

A true matriarch, Vivian’s world revolved around the people she loved. She found her greatest happiness in the simple, enduring joy of spending time with her siblings, the ever-growing families of her five children, and crocheting. Her home and her heart were the gathering points for generations, and her presence was a constant, guiding light for all the children on the East End of Bridgeport.

Family Legacy

Vivian was preceded in death by her beloved husband, Joseph N. Saunders, Jr.; her parents, Ruth and Eduardo; her stepfather, Henry Lawrence; her sisters, Barbara Powell, Ruth MacCalla, Rosalind Jones, Janice Caesar; and her brothers, Edward Rosario and Alvin Rosario. She leaves behind a vast and loving family to cherish her memory; sisters Theresa Cardozo and Cecilia Lawrence, brother-in-law Ronald Saunders, her five children; Joseph N. Saunders III (Roxanne), Cynthia Saunders-Maignan, Michael T. Saunders (Tammy), Jeffrey M. Saunders, and Leon C. Saunders; grandchildren Philip Saunders, Raymond Saunders, Tyrone Saunders (Angela), Tamara Saunders, Ayrica Saunders (Justin), Erica Geter, Prince Maignan, Noah Maignan, Elijah Vereen, Nathaniel Vereen, Neija Vereen, Marci Perry (Mikayla), Gaetan Perry (Shawn), Devon Saunders (Alyssa), Jessica Saunders (Joseph), Olivia Saunders, and Asia Saunders. She is survived by 23 great and great-great-grandchildren and a host of nephews, nieces, and dear friends who carry her spirit forward.

Memorial Services

The family appreciates the outpouring of love and support during this time of transition. Memorial service details will be announced soon.