Jay O. Sawyer, 94, of Sterling, passed away Thursday, January 02, 2025. He was born in Barnes Corners, NY, the last child of 13 on July 30, 1930, son of the late Jay A. Sawyer, and the late Elizabeth Kingsley Sawyer.  He is predeceased by his twelve brothers and sisters.

Known for his sweetheart demeanor, happy-go -lucky attitude and a joke for every occasion, Jay was a dedicated family man being married to his best friend and wife, Marilyn for over 71 years.   Jay had an infectious smile, firm handshake and always led his life by example.   Jay, often called "Pops' or "Big Tex" was an amazing father figure, a "go-to" kind of guy" that was always there for his family and friends whenever they needed help or advice.

Jay was an avid outdoorsman who loved hunting & fishing.  He enjoyed meeting all his friends at the Red Creek Conservation Club for some skeet shooting and a cold beer afterwards.  Jay was also a fierce bowler in his younger years and later in life, loved golfing every week with all his pals in Fair Haven NY as well as Zephyrhills, FL in the winter.  Jay loved to travel and was fortunate enough to make it from Africa to Asia and almost everywhere in-between.

When Jay was not out enjoying all his hobbies, he was a meat cutter by trade for over 40 years and had previously owned and operated the Haven Midstate Grocery Store in Fair Haven with his side kick Marilyn Sawyer from 1976- 2001. Jay was a huge music fan and loved to whistle to his favorite old-time country songs while he worked. Jay was an Army Veteran, a lifelong member of the Fair Haven Community Church and the Masons lodge #0550 in Hannibal.

Survived by his wife, Marilyn J. Gray Sawyer, children, Jay (Eileen) Sawyer of Fair Haven, Jeff (Susan) Sawyer of Sterling, and Carrie (Steve) Bolton of Fair Haven, grandchildren, Jacob, Elizabeth, Lindsey (Gary), Garrett, Jessica, Lauren, Alison, as well as three great grandchildren and numerous nieces and nephews.

Calling hours will be Wednesday, January 8, 5:00-7:00 at the Becker-Keysor Funeral Home, Red Creek, a memorial mass with military honors will take place Saturday, January 11, 1:00 pm at the Fair Haven Community Church, 14463 Richmond Ave, Fair Haven, NY 13064. For those wishing to make contributions in Jay's name they may do so to the Fair Haven Community Church, 14463 Richmond Ave, Fair Haven, NY 13064.