It is with deep sorrow, yet profound gratitude for a life well-lived, that we announce the peaceful passing of our beloved mother, Vivian Grim Sauder, on June 8, 2026, at Morningside in Concord, NC. Vivian was born on September 1, 1930, in Red Lion, PA, to Henry and Ruth Grim, who, along with her siblings Leona Huson and Harold Grim, preceded her in death. She was also preceded in death by her son-in-law, Dennis Heisey and three grandsons, Nathan Sauder, Brooks Heisey and Andrew Heisey.
Vivian's life was a testament to quiet strength, unwavering love, and a gentle spirit. She was a devoted wife to her husband, Paul Sauder, whom she married in 1952, and who predeceased her. Together, they built a family rooted in love and faith, imparting values that will guide generations to come.
Vivian's legacy is carried forward by her loving children: Shirley Heisey, Connie Paxton (Terry), Wayne Sauder (Beverly), Harold Sauder (Shirley), and Barry Sauder (Julie). She is also survived by her brother, Bill Grim. Her heart was full with the joy of her grandchildren: Ashley Giesecke (Michael), Jennifer Stroud (Brad), Cheryl Jones (Brad), Chasity, Joy Anderson (Travis), Daniel Sauder (Amy), Justin Sauder (Danielle), Clint Sauder (Amanda), Hannah Case (David), Steven Sauder (Kate), Brett Sauder, and Laura Sauder, along with 26 cherished great-grandchildren.
Vivian was a woman of deep faith, a devoted member of Calvary Baptist Tabernacle, where she found solace and community. Her life was enriched by her support of mission work, a passion inspired by her grandson's dedication to spreading the gospel in Zambia, Africa.
A talented seamstress by trade, Vivian dedicated her life to nurturing her family and others, providing childcare and loving guidance. Her home was a haven where the aroma of home-cooked meals mingled with melodies of hymns she sang up until her time of death. She found joy in the simple pleasures of life: tending to her garden, watching birds at her feeder, and savoring a good burger or Chick-fil-A meal.
Her quiet, gentle spirit was evident in her love for holding babies and her steadfast commitment to prayer and scripture. Vivian's life was a tapestry of love, woven with the threads of family, faith, and community.
A celebration of Vivian's life will be held on June 13, 2026, at 1:00 PM at Calvary Baptist Tabernacle, 3760 Stokes Ferry Rd, Salisbury, NC 28146. For those unable to attend, a livestream of the service will be available. In lieu of flowers, the family kindly requests that donations be made to Calvary Tabernacle Baptist Church for their Zambia Missions Fund, a cause close to Vivian's heart.
We were honored and blessed to have cared for our mother for nearly five years in her home which she loved until the last twenty six days of her life. We are so grateful that she slipped into eternity unexpectedly shortly after lunch and a family visit into the arms of her Savior rejoicing with the angels in her heavenly home. We are especially thankful to the compassionate staff of Hospice and Morningside for their loving care of Vivian in her final days.
Vivian Grim Sauder's life was a blessing to all who knew her, and her memory will be cherished forever. She leaves behind a legacy of love, faith, and kindness that will continue to inspire and guide her family and friends. May she rest in eternal peace.
In lieu of flowers
Donate to Zambia Missions Fund, Church Missions Fund?
In memory of Vivian Grim Sauder, the family welcomes donations to Zambia Missions Fund, Church Missions Fund?.
Tax-deductible · Secure checkout · Receipt emailed to you
“Jesus Loves the Little Children of the World” (Great Grandchildren)
Psalms 23
“Goodness of God” (Great Grandchidren)
Congregational Singing (Pastor Isaac Rivenbark)
“Victory in Jesus”
Proverbs 31:10, 25-28a, 31 (Daniel Sauder)
Testimony
“Goodly Heritage” (Grandchildren)
Eulogies
* Shirley Heisey
* Charlotte Jones
MessagePastor Steve Holshouser
Closing PrayerPastor Steve Holshouser
Numbers 622-27
Recessional
* “The Blessing”
The Broken Chain
We little knew that morning
that God was going to call your name.
In life we loved you dearly,
in death we do the same.
It broke our hearts to lose you,
you did not go alone.
For part of us went with you
the day God called you home.
You left us peaceful memories,
your love is still our guide,
and though we cannot see you,
you are always at our side.
Our family chain is broken
and nothing seems the same,
but as God calls us one by one
the chain will link again.
Graveside
Internment will be held at Brookhill Memorial Gardens in Rockwell, NC following the funeral service.
Special Thanks
The family of Vivian Grim Sauder extends heartfelt gratitude for your prayers, support, and kindness during this time.