The Reverend Madge Saunders, pioneer, motivational force, missionary and a true servant of God, passed away peacefully on March 2.

A service of thanksgiving for her life will be held at the Hope United Church today.

Saunders passed away just four days after she was recognised for her contribution to the founding of the Meadowbrook United Church during a special United Church Surrey Council Ash Wednesday service held at Meadowbrook.

She was 96 years old.

Reverend Dr Collin Cowan, general secretary of the United Church in Jamaica and the Cayman Islands (UCJCI), commenting on Saunders' passing, said: "The Reverend Madge is regarded by the UCJCI as an icon of unselfish service, unqualified commitment and unstinting devotion."

The history of the the UCJCI speaks highly of the contributions of the Reverend Marjorie Prentice Saunders. Her unswerving commitment to God, marked by justice, excellence and integrity in service to her community, won her a place among the outstanding group of Christian leaders in Jamaica.

A pioneer in education, Madge Saunders is credited for the establishment of basic, preparatory and high schools, including the Mona and Iona Preparatory schools; Meadowbrook High School and the Kelley Lawson Training Centre.