William Clay Sawyer

William Clay Sawyer, “Clay.” a devoted Christian, loving husband, father, and respected businessman, passed peacefully in his home into the presence of his Lord on May 28, 2026 at the age of 79. 

For 60 amazing years, he was the loving husband of one woman, Gayle Sawyer, with whom he 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 (Grayson). He is predeceased by his 8 sisters and 1 brother. He was also blessed to have 7 great grandchildren: Owen, Casey, Layne, Noah, Caroline, Jaxton, and Alease. Clay lived a life marked by unwavering faith and integrity. 

His relationship with Jesus Christ was the foundation of his life and guided every decision he made. He encouraged others in their walk with God, and lived as an example of Christian character and humility. As a businessman, Clay was admired for his wisdom, strong work ethic, and commitment to excellence. Through his leadership, he earned the respect of whoever he came in contact with. He believed that success was measured not only by accomplishments, but by the positive impact one made on others, and attributed all of his success to his faith in Jesus Christ. His legacy lives on through the family he loved, the lives he touched, and the faith he shared so freely. Though his earthly journey has ended, his family rejoices in the promise of eternal life and finds comfort in knowing that he has heard the words, "Well done, good and faithful servant... enter into the joy of your Lord." — Matthew 25:23

A service celebrating his life and faith will be held on June 2, 2026 at 2:00 p.m. at Little’s Funeral Home in Smithfield, Virginia with burial to follow in Historic St. Luke's Memorial Cemetery. A visitation will be held on June 1, 2026 from 6:00 - 7:00 p.m. at Little’s Funeral Home, Smithfield, VA. 

“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

"To be absent from the body is to be present with the Lord." — 2 Corinthians 5:8

Online condolences may be registered at www.littlesfuneralhome.com