08/22/2026
Sad News
JOHN SAUNDERS - ONE OF SALEM'S BIGGEST SUPPORTERS - PASSES AT AGE 66
It is with great sadness that City Council members and City leaders announce the passing of Salem City Councilman John Saunders, who died this Saturday afternoon at the age of 66.
“The impact John had on the City of Salem is immeasurable” said Salem City Manager Chris Dorsey. “I am humbled by his lifelong dedication and service to the city. His passing is a difficult day for all of us”.
Councilman Saunders began working part-time for the Salem Civic Center at a young age. He was a graduate of Salem High School and Roanoke College. Saunders began his professional career at the Civic Center in 1983 and advanced to become both the Assistant Director for the Civic Center and eventually the Director of Salem’s Civic Facilities until his retirement in March of 2017.
During his tenure at the Salem Civic Center Complex, Saunders was instrumental in both the expansion of facilities and the creation of events.
“John worked relentlessly to bring events to the area knowing they would not only enhance Salem’s statewide and national profiles, but also enhance the entire region economically”, said his longtime co-worker and friend Carey Harveycutter. “Without John’s input, his connections, and his willingness to work with all groups, many of these events would have never gotten off the ground. He will be sorely missed by me and many others.”
Saunders was first elected to Salem City Council, serving from July 1, 2018, through December 31, 2022. He began his current City Council term on January 1, 2025. That term was scheduled to expire December 31, 2028.
As a Council member, Saunders served on the Roanoke Valley Alleghany Regional Commission, the Roanoke Valley Transportation Planning Organization Policy Board, and was a member of Salem’s Audit-Finance Committee.
Here is a link to his online bio.
https://www.salemva.gov/790/John-Saunders
