Jeffery Lynn Sawyer

CONWAY, NC - Jeffery Lynn Sawyer, born on August 23, 1962, in Ahoskie, North Carolina, passed away peacefully on February 10, 2026, at ECU Health Medical Center in Greenville, North Carolina. He was 63 years old.

Jeffery was the beloved son of Barbara Jean Ferguson Sawyer and the late James Walter Sawyer, Jr. He spent his early years cultivating a love for music and sports, playing the trumpet in the Southampton High School marching band and excelling as an honor graduate in 1980. His passion for sports extended beyond high school as he participated in league bowling, enjoyed playing softball, and held an enduring affection for the beach.

A dedicated employee, Jeffery worked diligently as a Mill Operator for Union Camp, now known as International Paper, until health challenges compelled him into retirement. Known for his deep appreciation of all sports, baseball held a special place in his heart as his favorite. An avid Dallas Cowboy and NC State Wolfpack fan, Jeffery was renowned among friends and family for his spirited discussions and willingness to correct any inaccuracies in sports trivia with a smile. In remembering Jeffery Lynn Sawyer, we celebrate a life well-lived, full of love, laughter, and dedication to those he held dear. His spirit will continue to live on in the hearts of those who knew and loved him.

Above all, Jeffery cherished his family. On June 25, 1983, he married the love of his life, Fannie Rena Jenkins Sawyer. Together, they built a family filled with love and laughter. Jeffery was a devoted father to Tiffany Dalzell and her husband Brendan, Kimberly Buckner and her husband Ben, and Eric Sawyer and his wife Bridgette. As a grandfather, who was affectionately known as "PaPa," he found immense joy in attending his grandchildren's ballgames and spending quality time with them. He was adored by his grandchildren Aleigha, Jacob, and Carson Dalzell, Senae McNeil, Caleb Ivey, Krislyn Velvin, Garhett, Charlie, and Bryson Buckner, and Brooklynn and Kohlton Sawyer, as well as his great-grandchild, Ja'ire. He is also survived by his loving mother, Barbara Jean Ferguson, his brother, Ricky Ray Sawyer and wife Patricia, his special cousin Steve "Glenn" English, and numerous nieces, nephews, extended family, and friends. Jeffery's warmth and kindness touched everyone who knew him, leaving a legacy that will forever be cherished.

Family will receive friends on Saturday, February 14, 2026, from 3:00 to 5:00 p.m. at Garrett-Sykes Funeral Service in Rich Square, North Carolina and other times at the home of his mother, Barbara Jean Sawyer. A celebration of Jeffery's life will be held on Sunday, February 15, 2026, at 2:00 p.m. at The Lighthouse of Hope Church in Woodland, North Carolina, with Pastor Brian Jenkins officiating.

Online condolences can be made at www.garrettsykesfs.com. Funeral arrangements were entrusted to Garrett-Sykes Funeral Service - Rich Square Chapel, Rich Square, NC.