WATERBURY - It is with profound sadness and heavy hearts that the family of Terrance Saunders, Jr. age 40, known to so many as “Tjae”, shares the news of his unexpected passing on Tuesday, July 7, 2026.

Terrance was born on March 27, 1986 in Waterbury, Connecticut, the beloved son of the late Terrence “Bertie” Saunders and Hazel Dawkins. He dedicated his life to the restaurant industry, serving as a restaurant manager at Bertie’s Restaurant in Waterbury, which his family proudly owned for 34 years. Afterward, he ventured into real estate and remodeling, continuing to pursue new opportunities. Hehad a natural gift for bringing people together, especially with his laughter. Tjae was very social; he enjoyed going to parties and watching TV shows with friends and family. Most importantly, his devotion to his family was evident in everything he did, especially in his cherished relationship with his beloved daughter, Taniyah, whom he adored with all his heart, along with his role as big brother to his many siblings.

He leaves his beloved daughter; Taniyah Jaye Saunders, his brothers; Bobby Dawkins, Terrel Saunders and his wife, Lindsey, Rashad Johnson, Isaiah Ervin, Tyler Saunders, and Tyce Freeman, and his sisters; Tamara Dawkins, Tanika Dawkins, Shaneka Abdul-Lateef, Sherdene Saunders-Smith, Leteres Spence, Regina Mueller and her husband Dan, and his beloved baby sisters, Terri Saunders and Kenya Ferguson. He also leaves behind his step- mother: Lillian Denise Saunders, god mother Mary Hardy, many nieces, nephews, cousins and other extended family members and beloved friends. Tjae was predeceased by his nephew, Torrance Dawkins and his parents.

Funeral services for Mr. Saunders will be held on Thursday, July 16, 2026 at 11:00 a.m. at Casey’s Eastside Memorial Funeral Home & Cremation Care 1987 East Main St Waterbury, CT 06705. Relatives and friends are invited to pay their respects and visit with Tjae’s family from 10:00 a.m. until the service commences at 11:00 am at the funeral home. Burial will follow in New Pine Grove Cemetery in Waterbury. In this time of reflection, the family welcomes all who knew and loved Terrance to share messages of condolence, comfort, and cherished memories. Please visit the funeral home's tribute page at www.caseyfunerals.com to connect with the family or honor their loved one’s memory with floral arrangements and other gifts of condolence.