Ola Saunders

Ola Freiddie Saunders, age 86, of Mineral Bluff, passed away Tuesday, November 2, 2021, at her home.

She was born in Orlando, Florida, August 2, 1935, to the late James Daniel Smith and Ethel Irene Singleton Smith. Ola was a longtime member of McCaysville Church of God. She worked for many years at Life Care Center of Copper Basin. In addition to her parents, she was preceded in death by her husband, Rev. John Louis Saunders; one grandchild; and two great-grandchildren.

Ola is survived by her children, Debra (Richard) Farrington, Sandra Gillis, Johnie (Allen) Pickelsimer, Joseph Saunders and Paula (Gary) Fisher; brother, James Dallas Smith; sister, Voner Ann Bailey; 13 grandchildren; 21 great-grandchildren; and three great-great-grandchildren.

Funeral services were conducted Saturday, November 6, 2021, at 2 p.m. from the Akins Funeral Home Chapel with Rev. Allen Pickelsimer officiating. Music was provided by Stephanie Ensley and Haley Ensley.

Interment followed in Chastain Memorial Park. Pallbearers were James Gillis III, Dean Gillis, Tim Pickelsimer, Rodney Pickelsimer, Billy Saunders, Joel Saunders, Tyler Gillis and Oakley Woolfrom. Honorary pallbearers were Richard Farrington, Rev. Allen Pickelsimer and Gary Fisher.

Memorial contributions may be made to Gideons International or to the American Diabetes Association.

Condolences may be sent to the family online at www.akinsfuneralhome.com.

The Akins Funeral Home, of Blue Ridge, was in charge of the arrangements.