Elise Saunders Davis, 77, passed peacefully from her earthly life on Thursday, November 17, 2016 at Lower Cape Fear Hospice and LifeCare Center.

She was born March 12, 1939 in Wilmington, the daughter of the late William Benjamin and Rosie Lee Bland Saunders. Also remembered are Elise's brother, William Irvin Saunders and sister-in-law, Charlene Saunders Littleton, both who preceded Elise in death.

Elise is survived by her son, Fred K. Saunders; niece, LeeAnn Wells (Robbie); grandchildren, Kristina Maria Saunders, William Benjamin Saunders, Richard James Saunders, and Neil Ryan Saunders; five great grandchildren, Brianna, Peyton, Mason, Kade, and Harrison Saunders; great nieces, Ashley Codding, Samantha and Leah Wells and many extended family and friends.

Elise was a faithful member of Mt. Holly Baptist Church. She enjoyed singing with the LampLighters and being queen of her Red Hat Society group in Burgaw. After working many years, Elise retired from General Electric Company.

Elise will be remembered for her beautiful smile, infectious laugh and abundance of selflessness to her family, friends and community. She enjoyed decorating projects, cooking culinary delights, and working in her garden. Alise always extended to others a heart of love that became more evident with every turn of events in her life. She never knew the word quit, for her trust in the Lord never wavered. Alise would say to us today, "Remember me not with tears of sadness, for my destiny on earth is complete and I am smiling." She has left to all of us gifts of courage and faith which is and always will be Alise's legacy.

The family will receive friends at 2:00 p.m. on Sunday, November 20, 2016 at Mt Holly Baptist Church with service following at 3:00 p.m. in the church sanctuary. Rev. Merrell McKoy and Rev. Horace Hawes will conduct the service. Burial will follow in Rowe Cemetery.

Shared memories and condolences may be sent to the family by selecting "Share a Memory" above.

Quinn-McGowen Funeral Home of Burgaw.