Thomas Paul Sawyer, age 96, died peacefully on December 20, 2018, at the Crossing Assisted Living in Yorktown, VA. Paul (Buzz) was born in Newport News, VA on July 15, 1922. He was preceded in death by his wife Esteva and parents Thomas and Lillian Sawyer. Buzz is survived by his children and their spouses Tom and Linda Sawyer, Kathy and Richard Brandt and Donald Sawyer.

After graduating from Newport News High School and Newport News Shipbuilding Apprentice School, he married his high school sweetheart, Esteva Newbill. During World War II, he served in the US Navy and again during the Korean War. Following military service, Buzz returned to work at the Chesapeake and Ohio Railroad for 35 years. He loved his family and friends and was known to all as a competitive tennis player for 60 years and skilled woodworker.

Paul (Buzz) Sawyer was part of America's Greatest Generation and will be remembered as someone who embraced the simple life and provided for his family. He was especially grateful for the many repeat customers to his woodshop and the staff at Vancostas Restaurant. The family would like to thank all the friends and acquaintances that shared their time with Dad.

The family will receive friends on January 3, 2019 from 10-11 AM at R. Hayden Smith Funeral Home, Hampton with a memorial service to follow at 11:00 AM. The immediate family will conclude a private service at Peninsula Memorial Gardens in Newport News. www.rhaydensmithfuneralhome@gmail.com.