Gayle Kinlaw Sawyer

It is with profound sadness and deep gratitude for a life well lived, we announce the passing of our beloved Gayle Sawyer, a devoted wife, mother, grandmother, sister, daughter, and cherished friend, who entered into the arms of Jesus on August 8, 2025.

Born on December 6, 1948 in Lumberton, North Carolina., Gayle lived a life filled with faith, grace, and compassion. Her days were marked by unwavering love for her family, a joyful heart, and a deep belief in the promises of Christ. She was a woman of strength, gentleness, and quiet wisdom—always there with a listening ear, a warm hug, and a word of encouragement.

For 60 beautiful years, she was the loving wife of one man, Clay Sawyer, with whom she built a strong and God-centered marriage rooted in loyalty, laughter, and unconditional love. Together, they raised two children: William Clay Sawyer, Jr (Kim) and Melissa Sawyer Vick (Richie) who gave them four grandchildren: Whitney (Chris), Katie (Sam), Cassie (Jimmy), and Brendan (fiance: Grayson). She is predeceased by her brothers and sisters : Linda, Sharon, Jimmy, and Wayne as well as her mother, Elsie Kinlaw and her father, J.M. Kinlaw of Pulaski, TN. She was also blessed to have six great grandchildren: Owen, Casey, Layne, Noah, Caroline, Alease, and another baby boy due in September. She poured her heart into her family, guiding them with love while setting a positive example for them. “Nana,” was her proudest title. Her home was always open and filled with warmth, delicious treats, and love.

Those blessed to have known her will remember her faith in Jesus, which never wavered and was evident in every act of kindness, every conversation, and every moment of quiet strength. She lived her life in service to others and walked with grace and humility.

Though she has left this world, her legacy of love and faith lives on in the hearts of all who knew her. She will be deeply missed but never forgotten.

A celebration of her life will be held on August 16th, 2025 at 2:00 p.m. at Little’s Funeral Home located at 1515 S. Church Street Smithfield, VA 23430. A visitation will be held on August 15th, 2025 at 6:00 - 7:00 p.m. at Little’s Funeral Home. In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations be made to the Isle of Wight County Rescue Squad located at 13080 Great Spring Road Smithfield, VA 23430 in her memory. Online condolences may be registered at www.littlesfuneralhome.com

“The Lord is my shepherd; I shall not want.

He maketh me to lie down in green pastures: he leadeth me beside the still waters.

He restoreth my soul: he leadeth me in the paths of righteousness for his name's sake.

Yea, though I walk through the valley of the shadow of death,

I will fear no evil: for thou art with me; thy rod and thy staff they comfort me.

Thou preparest a table before me in the presence of mine enemies: thou anointest my head with oil; my cup runneth over.

Surely goodness and mercy shall follow me all the days of my life: and I will dwell in the house of the Lord for ever”. - Psalm 23

"Well done, good and faithful servant... enter into the joy of your Lord." — Matthew 25:23