Neal Sawyer, born on January 15, 1969, in Hendersonville, North Carolina, passed away on Friday, November 03, 2023, at his residence in Knoxville, Tennessee. He was 54 years old.
Neal lived a life filled with passion and purpose. As a Transportation Specialist at the Y-12 National Security Complex in Oak Ridge, Tennessee, he dedicated his days to his work, ensuring the smooth flow of operations. His commitment and diligence earned him the respect and admiration of his colleagues.
Outside of work, Neal found solace and joy in the simple pleasures of life. He loved being near a lake, indulging in boating adventures, and relished the opportunity to tinker with cars, particularly older models, and diesels. Neal’s infectious laughter and friendly nature earned him the reputation of a social butterfly, always bringing a smile to those around him.
Above all, Neal cherished his family. His children, Chase and Ava, held a special place in his heart, and he treasured every moment spent with them. His love knew no bounds, and he embraced the role of a devoted father wholeheartedly. Neal’s caring and supportive nature extended to his father, Donald Sawyer, and his wife Judi of East Flat Rock, North Carolina; his mother, Rita Whaley of Asheville, North Carolina; brother, Jason, and his wife Connie, as well as his nieces and nephews, who were fortunate to have him in their lives. Neal was also survived by his canine companion, Zeus.
A man of faith, Neal attended Calvary Church in Johnson City, Tennessee, and more recently found comfort in the embrace of Two Rivers Church in Knoxville, Tennessee.
Neal’s legacy is one of love, laughter, and unwavering dedication to his loved ones. He leaves behind a void that can never be filled. In remembrance of Neal, a graveside service will be held on Saturday, November 18, 2023, at 1:00 p.m. at Forest Lawn Memorial Park in Hendersonville, North Carolina. Following the service, the family will receive friends in the Hospitality Room of Forest Lawn Funeral Home & Memorial Park.
Neal was a great guy, and an even greater friend. He will be missed by all that new him. He was a busy man. Always had something to do, always working on something. Always willing to help others. My thoughts and prayers to you (his family).
I am heartbroken. I have known “Sparky” since we were in our 20’s. He always made me laugh and had a positive attitude. Gonna miss you my friend!!
Sonny, Judi and all of the Sawyer family – My heart breaks for you all. Neal was such a kind soul. Always hold the memories close. Prayers, love and hugs to you all.
Tammy Taylor
Don, Sympathy and prayers for you and your family. May God hold you in the palm of His hand!! Annette Phillips
RIP Neal
Prayers for comfort and peace for the family.
So sad to see this. Neal was a delight to work with at NFS. Sending my condolence to the family and lifting them in Prayer!
So sorry to hear of Neal passing! Seemed to be living his best life! Immaculata and HHS classmates. Praying for Neal and his family!
Rest in peace old friend!
My deepest condolences to Neal’s family, his classmates, and all the lives he touched. Neal was a person you wanted to be around based on his sense of humor, wit, and moral compass. There are no words that can be express with the passing of Neal. I talked with him last year, and he was the same Neal we all knew and called friend. He will always be in our prayers.
I am in shock an so, so sorry to learn about Neal’s death today. You see, I’m Neal’s Realtor and met him when he reached out to me several years ago to help him find a home here in Knoxville. He was the sweetest, kindest, most polite and appreciative client I’ve ever had in 17 years of being a Realtor. Neal wasn’t just a client, he became my friend and we discussed many things and he did indeed cherish his children. Most recently, I helped Neal win a contract on a piece of land with a lake view where he had hoped and dreams of building his forever home! He was so excited about it and the possibilities that awaited him there. I’ve been trying to reach Neal for over a weeks and it wasn’t like him to not respond to calls and texts, then they stopped going through so I became worried for him and today went to his house to check on him only to find out from his neighbor of his death. I’m beyond heartbroken for all of you who loved him. He was a wonderful, good person. If I can help you in any way later on, please reach out to me. You have my deepest and most sincere sympathies. Cathy Morrison