James Carter Sawyer

James Carter (Jim) Sawyer passed away peacefully at his home in Tucson (Saddlebrooke) on January 20, 2025, three days before his 82nd birthday. Jim was born in Greenwood, SC on January 23, 1943, the fourth of six children born to Nellie and James Floyd Sawyer. His parents and siblings Billie, Jerry, Ann, Tommy and Jackie greeted him in heaven. Jim's survivors include his wife Wanda; daughters Megan (Sean) Cheney and Annelise (Zach, fiancé); granddaughter Clara Rose Cheney; and numerous loving nieces, nephews and friends. 

Jim considered his childhood idyllic. He grew up in Mathews Mill Village, a self- contained working community in Greenwood, surrounded by families and friends who supported and took care of one another. Jim served in the U.S. Air Force, on active duty four years and in the reserves. He was stationed in Texas, Arizona and Japan. Jim earned his MBA from Nova Southeastern University. In 1983, he married Dianne Buttrick, a union that produced his daughters Megan and Annelise. He completed a 30- year career with American Express, retiring in 2001 as a vice president of sales and marketing. 

Jim met the true love of his life, Wanda, at a Christmas party in Texas in 2010. They pledged their love before God and his daughters in a commitment ceremony on July 6, 2013. They were married in Seneca, SC on November 3, 2017. 

Jim's life with Wanda was a whirlwind of adventure and cherished moments. They crisscrossed the country in luxurious RVs, visiting friends and family, and seeking unique and fun experiences. They owned houses in Texas, California, South Carolina, and Arizona. They celebrated every day that they spent together. 

Jim was known for his charming smile, his love of anything cowboy, and his ability to barter a bargain whenever he shopped. He enjoyed hiking, traveling, moving, serving his church, RVing, and a glass of good wine. 

Jim will be remembered by all as a Man of Faith and Christ Follower. 

Jim Sawyer's life will be celebrated on February 7, 2025, at 11:00 AM in Building D, the Old Chapel, Oro Valley Church of the Nazarene. Internment will be at a later date. 

In memory of Jim, please direct donations to: 

OVCN Building Fund 

500 W Calle Concordia Oro Valley, AZ 85704 ovcn.church/give 

or 

Tunnels to Towers 

2361 Hylan Blvd 

Staten Island, NY 10306 dogood.t2t.org