John Sawyer

John Hugh Sawyer, 89, of West Columbia, died Tuesday, May 31, 2011, at Agape Assisted Living-West Columbia. Born April 14, 1922, in Boston, MA, he was the son of the late Henry P. Sawyer and Marion McCormick Downes, and husband of his beloved wife of 69 years, the late Mary Louise Dodge Sawyer. Mr. Sawyer was a retired U. S. Army Lieutenant Colonel who served in World War II and Korea. During his military career, he served in the 82nd Airborne Division and in the 7th and 8th Special Forces Group. After retiring from the military, he worked for 15 years with the Department of Defense and did several tours of duty in Vietnam. Following his retirement, he and his wife, Mary Louise, resided in Williamsburg, VA where he was an active member of St. Olaf's Catholic Church. He also mentored youth in the 4-H Club and was a member of the Ruritan Club in Williamsburg. Survivors include his son, Joseph G. Sawyer and wife Mary Sue of Columbia; his daughter, Mary Lynne Sawyer of West Columbia; and two grandchildren, John Mark Sawyer of Chicago, IL and Mary Reames Rinehart of Charleston. He was predeceased by a sister, Janet Sawyer Batycki. Visitation will be 10:00-10:45 AM Monday, June 6, 2011, at Floyd's North Church Street Chapel. A graveside service will be held at 11:15 AM Monday, June 6, 2011 in West Oakwood Cemetery, conducted by the Rev. (name). In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to Agape Hospice, 805 Buff Street, West Columbia, SC 29169. Floyd's North Church Street Chapel To send flowers or a memorial gift to the family of John Hugh Sawyer please visit our Sympathy Store.