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BRISTOL - Wanda May Sawyer, 85, of Bristolville, passed away peacefully at home on Monday, Oct. 12, 2026, surrounded by the love and comfort of her family.
Born on March 14, 1941, in Warren, Wanda was the daughter of Robert and Janod Simons List. The youngest of seven children, she grew up on a small dairy farm in Mecca. Her childhood was filled with the simple joys of country living, the responsibilities of farm life, and the love and laughter that come with being part of a large family. Those early years helped shape Wanda into the hardworking, caring and devoted woman so many came to know and love. With a large extended family that included many nieces and nephews, Wanda always had plenty of family to love and memories to share.
One of the most special chapters of Wanda’s life began when she met her great love, Thomas Norman “Tom” Sawyer, at Willow Lake while on a babysitting outing. What began as a chance meeting grew into a beautiful love story and a marriage that spanned 62 wonderful years. Together, Wanda and Tom built a life rooted in love, commitment, and family. Through life’s joys and challenges, they remained devoted to one another, creating a lifetime of memories and a family that would always be Wanda’s greatest pride.
Wanda spent many of her working years at Kennametal, where she had the opportunity to work alongside her husband. But while she was a dedicated and hardworking employee, the roles she cherished most were those of wife, mother and homemaker. Caring for her family was never simply something Wanda did; it was at the very heart of who she was. She found purpose and happiness in making a home, raising her children and being there for the people she loved.
Wanda also had a generous spirit and a heart for her community. She was a longtime member of the Bristolville Green Thumb Garden Club and was especially proud of her involvement with the Trumbull County 4-H Hare Raisers Club. As a founder of the club and a dedicated advisor for 50 years, Wanda gave countless hours of her time to helping and encouraging young people. Her commitment to 4-H was more than volunteer work; it was an opportunity to share her knowledge, offer guidance and make a lasting difference in the lives of others.
Wanda knew how to appreciate life’s simple pleasures. She enjoyed spending time in her garden, going bowling and following her Cleveland Guardians. These small moments brought her joy and gave those around her plenty of reasons to smile.
But nothing made Wanda happier than her family, especially her grandchildren. She loved attending their games, cheering them on, and being part of the moments that mattered to them. Whether celebrating a big accomplishment or simply enjoying time together, Wanda treasured every opportunity to be with those she loved. Her family was her world, and the love she had for them could be seen in the time, attention and care she so freely gave.
Wanda’s life was not measured by grand gestures but by the countless everyday ways she showed her love. It was found in her dedication to her husband, the home she created for her children, the pride she took in her grandchildren, the time she gave to her community, and the many memories she made with family and friends. She leaves behind a legacy of love, hard work, devotion and the reminder that some of life’s greatest blessings are found in simply being together.
Wanda is survived by her son, Robert (Danielle) Sawyer; her daughter, Jennifer (Joshua) Nolan; and her beloved grandchildren, Nathan (Coral) Sawyer, Leslie (Shreyas) Sawyer, Madigan Nolan, Micah Nolan, Marcam Nolan and Maguire Nolan. She is also survived by her brothers, Floyd (Yvette) Shipman, and Robert (Dorothy) List; along with many cherished nieces, nephews, extended family members and friends.
In addition to her parents, Wanda was preceded in death by her loving husband of 62 years, Thomas Norman Sawyer; her sons, Thomas Sawyer Jr. and David Sawyer; and her siblings, Eugene (Lena) Shipman, Helen (Harold) Clark, Betty (John) Biro and Edna (Richard) Mocella.
Though Wanda will be deeply missed, the love she gave so generously will continue to live on in the hearts of her family and all who were fortunate enough to know her. Her memory will be carried forward in family gatherings, stories shared, games attended, gardens tended and all the little moments that remind those she loved of the wonderful woman she was.
Funeral services will begin at 11 a.m. Friday, Oct. 16, 2026, at Carl W. Hall Funeral Home, with Pastor Steve Anderson officiating.
Family and friends may call from 10 to 11 a.m. Friday, Oct. 16, 2026, at the funeral home.
Interment will follow in Greenlawn Cemetery in Greene Township, Ohio.
Donations can be made to the Trumbull County Junior Fair Organization.
Arrangements have been entrusted to Carl W. Hall Funeral Home.
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