Gertrude "Pidge" Saunders, 91, beloved sister-in-law, aunt, friend and teacher passed peacefully from this world on November 21, 2019 after a long illness.  After graduating from Glassboro State College in 1973, Pidge taught in the Haddonfield and Haddon Heights school districts for many years.

She was predeceased by her husband of 51 years, Leslie Saunders.  She is survived by sisters-in-law, Jody Jennings, Betty Jennings and her sister, Ruth Giera; nephews, John (Kayoko) Jennings and Thomas Jennings, Jr.; nieces, Jana Perskie, Merle Fischer (Frederick Sr.), Marie Jennings and Dr. Michele Saunders.  Great aunt to Tommy and Jaime Jennings, Lauren Kraus and Sofia Saunders Willingham.  Pidge was a "very special aunt" to Kevin (Kerry) MacDonald and is also survived by her love, George "Bucky" Pepito; dearest friends and colleagues: Josie Fischer, Joan Wodlinger, Marilyn Lee, Carmen Pirollo and many, many other teacher colleagues, students and friends.

Pidge's vibrant personality and charm made everyone feel welcome.  Pidge and Les were known for their fun parties, held whenever there was a good excuse--holidays, birthdays, anniversaries or "just because."  It was one of the ways they extended love.

Pidge was also a beloved teacher.  She expanded the horizons and cultural experiences of generations of students, helping them to have good memories of both school and her.  Many of them maintained contact throughout her life.

In recent years, she reconnected with her high school sweetheart, George "Bucky" Pepito, who helped her achieve quality of life and happiness even as her health failed.

Relatives and friends are invited to attend her visitation on Monday, December 2, 2019, 10 to 11 AM from St. Joseph the Worker Parish, St. Vincent Pallotti Church, 901 Hopkins Rd., Haddon Twp., NJ.  Mass of Christian Burial will follow at 11 AM.  Interment will be private.

In lieu of flowers, contributions may be made in Pidge's memory to the American Heart Association ( www.heart.org ).