Shawn Marie Saunders, age 54, passed away on December 18, 2025, in Kearney, Nebraska, surrounded by her children. Born in Elgin, Illinois, on November 29, 1971, she was the beloved daughter of J.R. and Peggy Saunders. Shawn grew up with a bright smile and a heart dedicated to the people she loved.

A longtime resident of Johnson Lake, Nebraska, Shawn devoted her life to being a caring daughter, a loving mom, a loyal friend, a proud Mimi, and a cherished partner. Her compassion, strength, and deep commitment to her family and friends touched every person who had the privilege of knowing her—and her unforgettable smart‑ass sass. One of her favorite places to be was on her porch, music playing, a drink in hand, sharing good conversation with the people she loved most.

Shawn’s legacy lives on in the relationships she nurtured, the kindness she shared, and the love she gave so freely. She will be deeply missed and forever remembered.

Shawn is survived by her parents, J.R. and Peggy Saunders of Lexington, Nebraska; her daughter Meagan Boyd and husband Steven of Elwood, Nebraska; her daughter Abbey Whittaker and her boyfriend Kadyn Marhenke of Lincoln, Nebraska; her son Zachary Whittaker of Elwood, Nebraska; and her stepdaughter Taylor Whittaker and fiancé Sam Clifford of Lincoln, Nebraska. She is also survived by Meagan’s father, Chuck, and Abbey, Zach, and Taylor’s father, Mark.

Her beloved grandchildren—Meela, Maylee, and Makynlee—brought immeasurable joy, laughter, and pride to her life.

She is further survived by her partner, Greg Anderson of Johnson Lake, Nebraska; her brother, Charles Borries of Kenner, Louisiana; and her beloved dogs, Baxter Owen and Sadie Sue, who brought her endless happiness.

Shawn is preceded in death by her maternal grandparents, Robert and Anna (O’Marro) Gee; her paternal grandparents, Douglas and Marion (Daubner) Saunders; her uncle Pudge; her cousin Shannon Maynard; her special friend Merlin Houlden; two grandchildren; and her special furry companions Riley, Gunner, and Hurley.

Shawn will be remembered for her generous heart, her fierce love for her family, and the comfort she brought to everyone around her. Her legacy lives on in the lives she shaped, the memories she created, and the love she gave without hesitation. She will be deeply missed and forever treasured.

A service honoring Shawn’s life will be held on Saturday, January 10, 2026, at 11:00 a.m. at Reynolds-Love Funeral Home. A celebration of life will follow at Kirk’s Nebraskaland. Family and friends are invited to come celebrate an amazing life lived. Memorials are kindly suggested to the Pitt Hopkins Foundation or to your local humane society. If you are ever struggling with mental health or addiction issues, please call 988. Your people need you.