Caridad Saunders (née Rodriguez), lovingly known to family and friends as “Cary,” passed away peacefully on July 8, 2026, at the age of 72.

Born on June 17, 1954, in Guantánamo, Cuba, Caridad built a life centered on family, hard work, generosity, and love. She spent many years in Elizabeth and Fords, New Jersey, before making her home in Port St. Lucie, Florida.

Caridad was a successful business owner who proudly operated her own office cleaning company. Through dedication and determination, she built her business while touching the lives of countless clients and friends with her warmth, reliability, and infectious spirit.

She is survived by her devoted husband, Francis Saunders; her beloved sons, Francisco Alex Navarro and his wife, Karyn, and Jorge Navarro; her cherished grandchildren, Dominic and Sophia, who were truly the loves of her life; her mother, Eudelisa C. Gonzalez; her sister, Olga Rodriguez and her husband Daniel and nieces Lauren and Erica; stepdaughter Brea Saunders and many dear friends and extended family members including Tatiana who held a special place in her heart.

She was preceded in death by her father, Reynaldo E. Rodriguez, who passed away on January 21, 2005 and stepfather, Heriberto Gonzalez, who passed away February 7, 2024.

Caridad had a passion for creating joyful memories with those she loved. She especially loved visiting Disney World, where she embraced the magic and excitement of every trip. She also expressed her love through cooking. Family and friends knew that whenever Cary was around, no one ever left the table hungry. Her home was always filled with delicious food, laughter, and open arms, making everyone feel welcomed and cared for.

Above all, Caridad will be remembered for her generous heart, unwavering love for her family, and the kindness she shared so freely with everyone she met. Her warmth, strength, and joyful spirit will be deeply missed but forever remembered by all who had the privilege of knowing and loving her.

Her family finds comfort in knowing that the memories she created, the traditions she passed down, and the love she gave so selflessly will continue to live on in the hearts of those she leaves behind.

Forever loved. Forever missed. Forever in our hearts.

Visitation will take place on Friday, July 17, 2026 from 2-4 pm and 7-9 pm at the Flynn and Son / Mitruska Funeral Home, 23 Ford Ave. Fords, NJ 08863.

Funeral Services will take place on Saturday morning, July 18, 2026, at 10 am from the Flynn and Son / Mitruska Funeral Home. Interment will follow in the Our Lady of Hungry Cemetery, Fords. NJ.