A man well known for his involvement in anti-violence programs in Rochester has died. Victor Saunders passed away Thursday evening.

"This is a sad day for us at City Hall with the loss of my good friend, senior advisor, and member for our management team,” Rochester Mayor Malik Evans said.

Saunders was picked by Evans to be his advisor on violence prevention programs. He was also known for his involvement with the Pathways to Peace program. He often worked with youth to encourage them to settle disputes without violence. Saunders is remembered as a committed public servant.

“He was my direct advisor on all things violence prevention. He helped me launch the Peace Collective, extend Pathways to Peace, extend our job training program for young people to keep them out of trouble and launch our reentry program for people that were coming back from incarceration. So that way we could curb recidivism. He was great force," Evans said. “He spent his entire time in the community. He could work with people from the district attorney to the young man playing basketball on the court. And I think that’s what made him so special.”

Wanda Ridgeway of Rise Up Rochester released a statement on Friday:

"We are deeply saddened by the passing of Victor Saunders — a devoted husband, father, grandfather and a true pillar of the Rochester community. Victor was more than a community leader; he was a source of strength, inspiration and unwavering support for so many of us.

His commitment to uplifting others and bringing people together left a lasting legacy. Personally, I was devastated to learn of his passing. He stepped in during pivotal moments in my life and always encouraged us to strive for excellence.

Victor Saunders was a legend in Rochester. His influence will continue to be felt for generations to come."

Evans, who's being challenged by Mary Lupien and Shashi Sinha in a Democratic primary for mayor next month, says that Saunders' dedication to the community dates back to before he entered office. His work created a platform for success throughout Evans' administration.

"The good thing about a legacy is that you plant the seed so that the work can continue to bloom. And Victor helped me build a great team in the Office of Violence Prevention Services. And, we have some great people that will fill in the gap to carry on the work that Victor had," Evans said. "Obviously, no one can replace Victor because he was that special. But the work that he laid the groundwork for will will continue. And he's just gone too soon. He was a young man. He wasn't an old man. So to lose him at such a young age is tough for us. But I'm grateful for the work that he's put in to make our city stronger.”

In a statement Friday, Evans said in part:

"He lived his life modeling the words of the great hymn, 'May the Works I've Done Speak for Me.' Victor has done great work, and my thoughts and prayers are with his wonderful family, friends and colleagues who loved him so."