Obituary of Verna Isabelle Sawyer

Verna peacefully passed away at Southlake Regional Health Centre, Newmarket on Thursday, June 26, 2025 at 77 years of age.

Beloved wife of Joe for 55 years. Loving Mom of Tom (Lia) Sawyer and Janet (Kevin) Henderson. Proud Gramma of Cameron, Owen, Kennedy; Scott and Andrew. Dear sister of Shirley (Richard) Zobolotny, late John Brownlee and Lois Brownlee (Bruce Coburn). Dear sister-in-law of Evaleen Sawyer, Francis (Doug) Shaw, Anne (Nick) Hurdman, Jean (Rob) Keffer and Mary Lou Sawyer. Verna will also be lovingly remembered by her nieces, nephews, cousins and many friends.

Verna grew up on the family dairy farm in Coleraine, where she developed a strong work ethic and love for rural life. She began her working career at American Can, followed by positions at Sears Printing and Mitsubishi Lithographic Presses.

After meeting Joe, Verna moved to Gilford and embraced life on the farm. She became deeply involved in the local community, dedicating herself to gardening, baking, church activities, and spending quality time with family and friends.

Verna was a proud and active member of the Gilford & District Horticultural Society since 1971 and a devoted member of the Gilford Church since 1970. She also supported various philanthropic causes, including the Canadian Cancer Society.

Memorial visitation will be held at Skwarchuk Funeral Home, 30 Simcoe Rd., Bradford, on Tuesday, July 8, 2025 from 10 a.m. until the time of the memorial service at 11 a.m.

In Verna's memory, donations may be made to Gilford United Church, Canadian Cancer Society or Diabetes Canada.