Elwood Neal Sawyers, age 84, husband of Peggy (Faircloth) Sawyers of McDowell, Virginia, passed away Thursday, January 27, 2022.

Born July 9, 1937 in Elk Creek, he was a son of the late Ted Clarence and Lillie Ethel (Poole) Sawyers.

Mr. Sawyers had retired as a Chief Warrant Officer following a 20-year career with the U. S. Coast Guard.

A man of strong Christian faith, he was a former member of First Baptist Church of Roanoke and currently held membership in Highland Baptist Church, where he served on the building and grounds committee and the church's finance committee.

He enjoyed turkey hunting, hiking in the mountains, and observing all types of wildlife, often encouraging others to do the same. Having the "heart of a servant," Neal was always willing to help his neighbors and even strangers - especially children. Above all, Mr. Sawyers will be remembered as a loving, supportive and faithful husband, father and grandfather.

Neal was predeceased by a sister, Shirley Roberts.

Surviving, in addition to his beloved wife of 64 years, are two daughters, Susan Lee Sawyers of Kernersville, NC, and Sarah Anne Sawyers of Roanoke; his son, Michael Neal Sawyers and wife, Jessica of Colorado Springs, CO; grandson, Joshua Sawyers of Clovis, NM; granddaughter, Laura Sawyers of Colorado Springs, CO; great-grandson, Benjamin Vecchiarelli; sister, Fern Bollinger and husband, Kenneth of Monkton, MD; as well as many nieces, nephews, friends and all of his "little church friends" at Highland Baptist Church.

A funeral service will be held 2 p.m., Friday, February 4, 2022 at Highland Baptist Church with Rev. Mark Davis officiating. Burial will follow in Monterey Cemetery with military honors.

Pallbearers will be Ed Hershman, Larry Propst, Danny Napier, Harley Gardner, Jim Armstrong, and Terry King.

The family suggests memorial contributions may be made to Highland Baptist Church, 302 Jackson River Road, Monterey, VA, 24465.

The Obaugh Funeral Home, McDowell, Virginia, is in charge of arrangements.