Mr. Leroy Brewster Sawyer

Leroy Brewster Sawyer was born March 2, 1923 in Chickasaw, Alabama near Mobile. Leroy left this world on September 21, 2017 at 94 years of age. His father was James Carlton Sawyer and his mother was Martha Elizabeth Sawyer. Leroy was from a large family. His brothers and sisters included William, Everett, Shirley, Geraldine, Francis, Clifton, and Bernard. Leroy is survived by his daughters Cathy Burden and Robin Sawyer, his son William Sawyer, and his grandsons Cy and Dylan Eitharong. The Sawyer family moved from Alabama and settled in Apopka, Florida — a fisherman’s paradise. From there, Leroy’s love of fishing would stay with him throughout his life. The family persevered through the difficult years of the depression era, where family members would build boats for $2 a day and Leroy’s father would work for 25 cents an hour. Leroy had many stories to tell about these years and how the family overcame the difficult challenges they faced. Leroy met Salome Jean Hunt at a Goodyear blimp factory in Akron, Ohio prior to the war. They were soon married and moved to Orlando, Florida to begin their life together. There, Leroy built the home that he would occupy until the last day of his life. Jean and Leroy raised three children — William, Cathy, and Robin. After more than 60 years of marriage, Jean left this world January 7, 2007. Leroy began the business of Sawyer Masonry as a young man, and worked as a skilled and respected masonry contractor in Orlando and the surrounding areas until he retired at the age of 52. Throughout the area, his quality craftsmanship and labor can be seen in homes, businesses, and public spaces. His brother William, a skilled carpenter, and brother Everett, a skilled stone and tile contractor, also left their mark on our community. Leroy was a decorated soldier for the US Army during WWII, during the years of 1943 - 1946. He was awarded six bronze stars amongst other metals of distinction for his bravery and service. Leroy advanced to the military rank of sergeant and operated a 640 Tank Destroyer in the Philippines battalion. He was stationed in Hawaii, Guadalcanal, New Britain, and New Guinea as well. Leroy was very active. He was an avid fisherman for most of his life, participated in bowling leagues for several years, and enjoyed golfing in the AGA of Florida. Health and well-being were a high priority for Jean and Leroy through the years. Roy was a bodybuilder and co-owner of the former Orange Avenue Gym and both he and Jean were active in the Downtown Orlando YMCA. Leroy had a wonderful sense of humor, enjoyed music by playing harmonica and guitar, and always enjoyed a good card game with Jean, his family, and friends. In their later years, Jean and Roy would whirl and twirl at square dances and travel the country together. He was a very charming and kind man who was loved by many and will be missed. A memorial service to honor the life of Leroy will be held Friday, September 29, 2017 at 4 pm. All Faiths Cremations and Burial Society 4901 South Orange Avenue, Orlando, FL 32806 407-898-1698