Cecilia A. Liga

Cecilia A. (Sawyer) Liga

Born in Oklahoma, a graduate of Southern State University in Tulsa, Cecilia traveled the state inspecting and evaluating institutions for the disabled. She authored the comprehensive "Oklahoma State Directory of Facilities for the Disabled." Upon moving to California, Ceil pursued a career in services for the handicapped. She became a social worker for the develop-mentally disabled, managing outpatient services and family counseling. Relocating to New Jersey, Ceil obtained her master's degree and became an adjunct educator for a counseling center in Brandt Beach where she travelled New Jersey conducting workshops for teachers of the handicapped. Later Ceil married and devoted herself to raising her son Christian. Until she became ill, Ceil continued to follow her passion by teaching special education classes in Christian schools. Cecilia was a founding member of The Church of Grace and Peace in Toms River N.J. where she held a variety of volunteer positions over the years including: Head of Children's Services, Grant Writer and Prayer Chain Coordinator as well as assisting her husband in youth and outreach ministries. Although born with congenital cerebral palsy, Ceil had an indomitable spirit and never allowed her handicap to prevent her from accomplishing her goals. Ceil drove a motor vehicle (using special equipment), went camping, canoeing, water skiing (using a sled) and home schooled her son, who went on to become a master degreed electrical engineer. Ceil went home to be with the Lord Jesus Christ on Sunday, January 26th, after a two and a half year battle with cancer.

Cecilia is survived by her son, Christian Liga; her brother, Terry Sawyer; her nephews, Kurt and David Sawyer and her cousin, Barbara Spring.

A memorial service will be held on February 15th at 1:00 pm at The Church of Grace and Peace, 1563 Old Freehold Road, Toms River, N.J. 08755; 732- 349-1550. Arrangements are under the direction of Ocean County Cremation Service, Forked River.