Bud and Family, I did not know your son, but from what I have read he was a fantastic fellow.

No one would expect anything else from a son rasied by Bud. Bud, while I have not seen or heard from you in a while, I remember what a great person you are and the wonderful contribution you made to the Ohio Historical Society. I just want you and your family to know you have my deepest sympathy.

Sincerely,

John Fleming

Dear Elspeth, Julie, and all of Jim's family: I was so sorry to hear about Jim's passing. I knew that his condition was getting worse, but he fought so gallantly for so long that one thinks that he'll just keep on going. I'm so sorry for your loss but he is no longer in pain and now at peace. I have great, funny memories of staying with Jim when he was in his body casts. We really had a great time together. Elspeth, please be sure to let us know when the memorial will be in Columbus. I'll call you next week when we return from Chicago.

For the Sawyer family--how can I put into words the deep affection I have had for all of you--ever since you moved here from Westfield. Immediately,both Ozzie and I fell in love with the Sawyer family. Ozzie experienced going to the football games with Bud and dire-heart Jim---who wouldn't get into the spirit having him next to you yelling his heart out. I remember so well visiting Jim in the hospital recovering from a broken bone---often, that is. One time stands out as we had taken him a large container of popcorn from the well-known popcorn factory. I was so eager to give it to him that I tossed it on his bed not realizing the top was not completely on so within seconds there was popcorn everywhere . Did this stop Jim from enjoying this treat---no way, he managed to scoop most of it up and you know where it went---too cute. I have never known anyone braver than Jim. His struggles went on for years but never a complaint--always wondered ---how could this be? Please know how much I care--all of you, Julie, as well. I have these and many more memories of Jim that will always be with me. You have all been blessed having known and loved him for all this time. I know I feel I was one of the lucky ones. lovingly Irma Mattern

Jimmy was my very first babysitting "job" along with Heather. It was very interesting because he was in his first body cast and he had a very funny sense of humor and would get me every time with one of his tricks. Even with all he went through I can honestly say I only remember Jimmy with a smile on his sweet face. We should all have such grace under pressure as Jimmy. He will always be an inspiration to me and I am very saddened to hear he has left this life, but happy to know he will know longer have to experience pain.

Dear Elspeth,



What a heavy loss for you and your family. I remember Jim as such a lively little boy despite his burdensom condition. His obituary shows, not surprisingly, that he grew into a very admirable, talented and courageous man. May your loving memories sustain you and you family.



God's Grace Be With You,

Marilyn Smith

My dearest Julie, my heart goes out to you and your family. Jim was an amazing man who touched us all in ways we will keep with us forever. He will be dearly missed. He is one of the most amazing men I have ever had the pleasure of knowing. Please, if there is anything I can do to help you through this time you let me know. I love you, take care of yourself.

Dearest Jim,



	Beloved brother, born on the Ides of March. Greeted with curiosity and a touch of skepticism when you first came into my life, a busy bundle who ousted me from my prime position as youngest. 



	You were my running mate from the moment you could wobble, a willing Robin to my Batman. We garbled the lyrics to “Lean on Me,” declared ourselves the “lonely brothers” and pricked our fingers with needles to bond our brotherhood in blood. 



	You were always willing for another game of catch, of “horse,” or an expedition down the creek. Though I had 3 years and many pounds more, you forever challenged. You had such amazing eye/hand coordination, balance, and grace. You were an accomplished pianist, an avid Pink Floyd fan (much to the detriment of Mom’s Steuben crystal). You tried out for and made the golf team on crutches, could diagnose the errors in my swing, and hit the ball straight and true.



	You were always a daredevil and I didn’t have the sense not to dare you nor was it in your DNA to decline. You were eight years old. That may have been the first time that I witnessed your tremendous courage and grace. It was not the last.



	I kept that single baseball card, Roberto Clemente, with me until your wedding day. Many of you were also with us to celebrate that wonderful day, the joining of Jim and Julie’s lives together as family, and the ceremonial passing of the baseball card from beloved sister to beloved wife. That card captured a bond of love and forgiveness, of caring and compassion that has been the hallmark of your marriage as well.



	Beems, it is not possible to capture all that you mean and all that we have shared. But here is one thing that you taught me: a heart can break a thousand times. With love and humor and courage, it can heal and be stronger. 



	The first time you asked me, you were just a teenager. I felt so incapable of answering such a big question. But here is my answer now: wherever that is, your body is as strong as your spirit; there is no pain; you can run freely and fast; there are 2 eighteen hole golf courses – a Scarlet and Gray – and you are teaching your children to play. There are hamburgers, French fries and cokes on the menu (plus Skyline and wild wings); and the Buckeyes never lose. 



	You will always be with us; I carry you in my heart. Thank you for being my Beemer-bop, for sharing your life, and being my family.



	I love you Jim.



For always,



Heather

Julie, I was so sorry to hear about Jim. My thoughts are with you. Please let me know if there is anything that I can do to help.

I was very sorry to hear of Jim's passing. I went to school with Jim from the 6th grade at Tremont Elementary on - we were in the UAHS marching band together, although I was a woodwind and he was brass! He was a very sweet, kind person and will be missed. Keeping your family in my thoughts and prayers.

We are so saddened to hear of Jim's passing. Our hearts go out to all of his wonderful family. I can't help but get a big smile when I think of hanging out at the Sawyer's house with Heather and her adorable little brother being goofy and jumping around making us all laugh. Please know out thoughts are with you.

Julie,

I am so sorry that you have lost your beloved, James. He fought the good fight and is at peace. My thoughts and prayers are with you and your family.

Julie, I am so sorry to hear of your loss. My thoughts and prayers are with you. If you need anything please call me. Elana is out of town this week but she sends her condolences. I wish I could attend the service... I will be thinking of you. Diane

My thoughts and prayers are with you Julie, and your family, in these trying times. May God lift you up and give you strength.

Julie,

Thinking of you. Call if you need to talk.

Julie, I am so sorry to hear about your dear husband's passing. I know you loved him so much, and will miss him terribly. My thoughts are with you and I pray that you will be strong. I wish I could come to the service on Thurs., but I will be working. Always know you can talk to me if you need to. My heart goes out to you.

I was very saddened to hear the news of Jim's passing. I spent many a day strolling along the fairways of The Ohio State University golf courses with Jim all through Jr. High School and High School. We also played in the band together (Trombones Rock!).



I'll miss his clever wit and quick smile. There aren't too many Buckeye fans with more passion and pride than Jim.



He'll be missed. I will keep a good thought for Jim and the entire Sawyer family.

OBITUARY

James Sawyer

March 15, 1967 – April 19, 2011

Anderson Funeral Home

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