On November 4th 1937, Georgia Elizabeth Sawyer Neill was born in Martin County North Carolina to a family of share croppers. It was a life of hard work. Her Grandmother taught her how to sew when she was very young, a craft which later in life proved to be a wonderful asset to making money!
In 1956, she made her way to South Carolina. She lived in several different counties until she settled in Greenville, making it her home for the reminder of her years.
In 1975, she started working at Michelin as a quality inspector, forklift driver to eventually becoming the first female Master Electrician on Michelin’s maintenance team. During her time at Michelin, she also focused on other passions. One of these passions was dance, so much so that she tried out for Dance Fever in the 70’s. She also became a student at the "Arthur Murray's Dance Studio".
In the late 80’s, she found a new love in repairing old dolls. She began by learning how to do Antique Reproductions for which she won awards from the Doll Makers Association. Over time, this passion turned into a thriving business known as Patty Cake Doll Hospital. Her sewing skills in which to make the dolls costumes, painting, repairing, and so many talents that she learned over the years all came into play. She then wanted to share her knowledge and love of dolls with others so she began teaching doll classes. Her students loved her and her wonderful ability to add an artistic touch to everything she helped them create.
She loved her children dearly and taught them to be strong, resourceful, loving and caring. She is loved and will be missed by all of us, even those who knew her for just a moment.
Georgia is survived by her children, Cheryl Reason (Harvey), Catherine Cox (Terry Lee), Carolyn Crawford (Joseph), James Cox, and Candace Rackley (India); her grandchildren, Rebecca Deets, Harvey Reason, Jr., Steven Jamison, Eric Cox, Kimberly Cox, and Ian “Shea” Crawford; her brother, Franklin Sawyer; and eight great-grandchildren.
Georgia is predeceased by her parents, George and Annie Sawyer; and her beloved Aunt UZ Sitterson.
A funeral service will be held on Sunday, March 10th at 12:00 pm in the Chapel at Mackey Funerals and Cremations on Century Drive. The family will receive friends one hour prior from 11:00 – 11:45 am. A committal will follow the service at Greenville Memorial Gardens.
