David E. Sawyer

Chesapeake - David E. Sawyer, 72, succumbed to a rapidly advancing case of pulmonary fibrosis on August 20, 2017. He was born to the late George and Sally Sawyer July 3, 1945. Dave was a 1963 graduate of Oscar F. Smith; he attended VPI in 1967, Old Dominion in 1970 and finally earned his doctorate in 1972 from Texas A&M. He retired in 2014 after 47 years of service to public education. Dave was a full-time member of the faculties at the University of Alabama where he was awarded tenure and promoted to full professor; and later was a professor at Virginia Tech and finally Regent University. He served as an assistant superintendent for Fairfax County (VA) Public Schools for eight years, he also served as superintendent in the public schools for Pickens County (SC), Clovis Unified (CA), Brevard County (FL), Tulsa (OK) and Stafford County (VA).

He is survived by the love of his life, his wife, Joyce Ann. Together for 50 years they have enjoyed God's blessings of a rich and fulfilling life. He is also survived by his sons, Gregory (Patty) and Bruce (Nathalie); six grandchildren, Jordan, Bruce, Jr., Natalie, Justin, Matthew and Stone; brother, Franklin Sawyer; sisters, Judy Smith, Marilyn Wesner (Darrell) and Lynn Cooke (Glenn).

The family will have a private graveside service. Those who wish to commemorate his life or friendship are asked to support Union Mission Ministries "Feed the Hungry", 5100 East Virginia Beach Blvd., Norfolk, VA 23502 (unionmissionministries.org) or Gideon's International. Graham Funeral Home & Cremation Services will be caring for arrangements. Please visit www.grahamfuneralhome.com to leave a condolence to the family.

To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.

Published by The Virginian-Pilot on Aug. 22, 2017.

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Bo Sawyer

August 22, 2017

My prayers and condolences go out to the family. So sorry for your loss. I might possibly be his nephew, my biological father is Franklin Sawyer. If anyone in the family could contact me, I would sincerely appreciate it. Yours truly, William Franklin "Bo" Sawyer [email protected]. (336)362-2259

Gene Callahan

August 22, 2017

So sad to hear the news about the death of my friend Dave Sawyer. He and I both graduated from Va. Tech in 1967. Although we did not know each other while we were students at Va Tech, we both crossed paths twice during our careers. The first time was when we both worked in Alabama; Dave worked at the University of Alabama while I worked for the Alabama State Department of Education. The second time was here in Oklahoma. I was Superintendent at Tulsa Tech when he was named Superintendent at Tulsa Public Schools. My condolences to his wife Joyce and the family. Rest In Peace my fellow Virginian and my fellow Hokie.
Gene Callahan

Linda Reed

August 22, 2017

Extending my condolences to Dr. Sawyer's family, and friends during this difficult time. I met Dr. Sawyer when he became the Superintendent for Staddord County Public Schools in Stafford, VA. I was deeply saddened to read of Dr. Sawyer passing. He was such a kind, and gentle man, with such a loving spirit! He was loved by MANY! I sensed he had a love for Jesus, and people, just by the way he carried himself. What a real comfort to KNOW he is spending eternity with Jesus! The family, and friends, of Dr. Sawyer, are in my prayers today as well as the days to come.

Sincerely,
Linda Reed

Dave Mirra

August 22, 2017

I had the good fortune to work with Dr. Sawyer at Stafford County public schools. He was natural leader with the ability to confront issues with good judgment and logic. I learned much about effective leadership from him. Rest in peace Dr. Sawyer. My thoughts and prayers to the family.

August 22, 2017

Going to miss the banjo. Keep playing!!!!

Bonnie Martin

August 22, 2017

Sending prayers and comfort during this time. Dr. Sawyer was such a wonderful man. Loved his spirit and love of our school. I worked with him in Stafford Co. Public Schools. Keeping his family in my prayers.

Judi Evans McArthur

August 22, 2017

I was saddened to hear about David, and remember him at Ocsar Smith. It sounds like he had a very full and rewarding life in the service of others. I know your hearts are heavy but what a blessing to know he is in the presence of our Lord Jesus and you will be reunited one day in Heaven. Your family is in my thoughts and prayers.

Jennifer Jones

August 22, 2017

Dr. Sawyer was a dynamic leader who was so personable that you always wanted to push the limits and ALWAYS strive for EXCELLENCE for students and for yourself. Much love to the family during this difficult time.

Rebecca Howard

August 22, 2017

I was so saddened to learn of David's death. We were in the same AP classes our last two years of high school. He was a great guy; bright, polite, friendly in a quiet way, open-minded, humble, and eager to learn. I think he must have been somewhat of a "late bloomer," as he tended to stay in the background, observing rather than voicing his opinions. I wish I had had the opportunity to know him better, but in those days, our time was spent listening to our teachers lecture, studying, and doing homework in preparation for college. There were few opportunities at school to work together or get to know each other on a more personal level, especially if you were of the opposite sex. At that time, I thought David's professional goal was to be an engineer, so I was surprised when I first learned that he had chosen public education as his profession. But I wasn't surprised to learn of his success. I think he would have been successful at any chosen profession. I was immensely proud and happy for him. The death of such a fine human being is always a great loss, especially to family and friends. To all of those close to David, I extend my heartfelt condolences. He was one of the "good ones" we've lost much too soon.
With love and sympathy, Rebecca Todd Howard

Robert Belman

August 22, 2017

I am saddened to learn of the passing of Dr Sawyer. I served on Stafford County School Board, during Dr Sawyers time in Stafford County Public Schools. He was indeed a visionary, and a true gentleman. I as a board member learned a lot from him, and always considered him a friend. Rest In Peace, Dave. May GOD bless his soul and his family during this time.

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