Hilda Ann Saunders Alvarez, 89

To view Hilda’s memorial video, click here.

Hilda Ann Saunders Alvarez, 89, of Middleburg, FL passed away Sunday, October 13, 2024.  Hilda was born in Penney Farms, FL to the late Samuel and Lillian Saunders and was a lifelong resident of Clay County.  Her career centered around serving her community as the preschool director at First Baptist Church of Orange Park, the assistant supervisor of elections in Clay County, and finally with the Clay County School Board where she retired from adult and community education.  Hilda also volunteered with the youth at Russell Baptist Church. 

Hilda was a quiet woman with a closeknit circle of family and friends.  Traveling was something Hilda enjoyed immensely and she made several trips to Europe.  She loved to read and was a talented seamstress.  Hilda’s main priority in life was her family.  She loved being a mother and MeeMaw or Nana to her grandchildren and great-grandchildren.  She spent as much time with them as possible and was always there to help take care of them.  A true servant, Hilda gave sacrificially to her family with a joyful heart.       

Hilda was preceded in death by her parents, Samuel and Lillian Saunders; her husband of 63 years, John “J.L.” Alvarez; as well as her brothers, William Saunders and Robert Saunders.  She is survived by her son, David Carlos Alvarez (Elizabeth Carter); daughter, Brenda Hays (Jeff); six grandchildren, Zachary Alvarez, Nathanael Alvarez, Lilian Alvarez, Tristan Alvarez, Candace Hays, and Carmen Hays; two great-grandchildren, Phoenix and Michael; four nieces who are like daughters to her, Cindy, Jenny, and Vickey Saunders, and Theresa White. 

Funeral services will be held Friday, October 18, 2024 at 11am in the chapel at Russell Haven of Rest with Rev. Ron Baker officiating.  Interment will follow in Hickory Grove Cemetery. 

Arrangements are under the care of Russell Haven of Rest Cemetery, Funeral Home, and Cremation Center, 2335 Sandridge Road, Green Cove Springs, FL 32043. Family and friends may share their condolences at www.RHRFH.com or by calling 904-284-7720