James Richard Sayer

January 3, 1938 – June 3, 2026

James R. “Jim” Sayer, age 88, of Buckeye, Arizona (formerly of Dayton, Ohio), passed away peacefully on June 3, 2026, surrounded by his loving family after a courageous battle with Mesothelioma Cancer.

Jim was the beloved husband of Patt Sayer for nearly 66 years, since their wedding on October 8, 1960. Together they shared a deep and abiding love. Jim was a devoted husband, father, grandfather, son, and friend whose quiet strength, affable nature, and dry sense of humor touched all who knew him.

Born in Dayton, Ohio, Jim was a lifelong Catholic and graduate of Chaminade High School. He earned his degree from GMI through the co-op program and was an active member of the Phi Tau Alpha fraternity. He later received his MBA from Xavier University, attending night school while working full time, a reflection of his strong work ethic and determination. He enjoyed a distinguished 34-year career at General Motors’ Delco Moraine Division, retiring as Manager of Joint Ventures and License Agreements.

An athlete at heart, Jim played many sports during his life, including golf for over 70 years. He loved the outdoors and took great joy in landscaping, gardening, and feeding the birds. Always willing to try new things, he kept the family home full of projects and was quick to help his kids with theirs. Above all, he was a great husband, father, and grandfather - kind, steady, and full of love.

Jim and Patt moved to Bellbrook, Ohio, in 1966. There they raised their children and built their lives in the community. From coaching Eric in baseball to building wooden prop boxes for Natalie’s drill team, Jim was always willing to lend a hand. He was actively involved in his children’s lives and could always be counted on to be there for musical performances and sporting events. Jim was also part of the Bellbrook Music Boosters and the Bellbrook Planning Board.

In 2000, Jim and Patt moved to North Bend, Ohio, to be near Eric, Rose, and granddaughter Andie. For many years they enjoyed holidays and activities together, and Jim was in the stands for all of Andie’s sporting and musical events. In 2017, they retired to Buckeye, Arizona. They joined the GM Alumni Club - Arizona chapter and celebrated its 50th Anniversary. A proud brother of the Knights of Columbus, Jim lived his faith every day. While he enjoyed being near Natalie and Carl, he missed the four seasons of Ohio. He and Patt especially loved returning in October, their favorite month.

Jim was preceded in death by his father, Eugene W. Sayer; mother, Mary M. Sayer; siblings MaryAnn Cain (Mame), Eugene W. Sayer, Jr. (Bo), George Sayer, and Margaret (Peggy) Miller.

He is survived by his loving wife, Patt; children Eric (Rose) and Natalie (Carl); and granddaughter Andrea (Alec). He is also survived by his siblings Judy (Tom), Rosemary (Tom), and Steve; his sister-in-law Nellie Sayer (wife of Bo); and many nieces, nephews, and dear friends.

A Catholic Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated at St. Clare of Assisi Roman Catholic Parish in Surprise, Arizona, with Father McGuire officiating on July 6, 2026 (Rosary at 10:00 a.m., Mass at 10:30 a.m.). Lunch will follow in the modular hall. His final resting place will be at Calvary Cemetery in Dayton, Ohio.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in Jim’s memory to the St. Clare of Assisi Activity Hall Building Fund, St. Clare of Assisi Roman Catholic Parish, 17111 W Bell Rd, Surprise, AZ 85374.

Jim’s legacy of love, faith, and family will live on in the hearts of all who knew him. May he rest in eternal peace.