Thomas Ray Sawyer

Tom was a “local” born in Norfolk, Virginia to Norman and Mary Sawyer.

St. Mary’s was his schooling in the formative years. He graduated from Great Bridge High School, class of 1962. Under his name in the Senior yearbook he was quoted as saying “Looking at the bright side is a cure for many troubles”. Baseball 1,2,3; Monogram Club 1,2. After graduating he enlisted in the Air Force during Vietnam to serve his country that he absolutely loved. The American flag was very important to him; what it means: unity, solidarity, friendship, equal rights, service, and freedom for all people.

Following the footsteps of Tom’s late grandfather, John James (Berkley Fire Dept), joined the Chesapeake Fire Dept and served the people of Chesapeake for over 30 years. Tom watched the city grow from a rural area to what it is now 61 years later. He was a member of Berkley Masonic Lodge #167 until his passing.

Tom is survived by his wife of 52 years, Sherry Sawyer; children (grandchildren), Tammy and John Stemple (Alex and Christy), John and Michelle Hewitt (John-Jon), Sara and Anthony Rehling (Edward, Bri, Jake, and Nicholas), Kathryn and Steve Sayers (Kyle and Kate); several great-grandchildren; and a host of other family and friends.

He will be privately laid to rest at Woodlawn Memorial Gardens, 6309 E. Virginia Beach Blvd, Norfolk. In lieu of flowers, please consider a donation to the Norfolk Botanical Gardens or a charity close to your heart.