Charles Marshall Sawyers
1948 - 2025
Charles “Snapper” Marshall Sawyers, 76, passed peacefully into the arms of our Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ, on January 22, 2025, in Winston-Salem, NC. Born in Martinsville, VA, on June 20, 1948, he was the son of the late Charles Wheeler Sawyers and Norma McBride Sawyers.
He is survived by the love of his life and bride of 58 years, Phyllis Knox Sawyers; his son, Charles Marshall Sawyers Jr., and wife, Stephanie Sawyers; his daughter, Sherri Marie Sawyers; and friend, Robert Holden; his seven grandchildren, William Sessions (and wife Paige), Haleigh Sawyers, Andrew Shaffer, Lydia Shaffer, Emily Boudreaux, Jason Boudreaux, and Mason Shoaf; his seven great-grandchildren, Max Sessions, Marshall Sessions, Morris Sessions, Mark Sessions, Ivy Shaffer, Rheem Fisher, and Rumii Shaffer, and one sister, Brenda Sawyers.
Papa is preceded in death by his beloved daughter, Pamela Shaffer, and his cherished four-legged companion, Scout.
Charlie moved from Martinsville, VA, to Winston-Salem, NC, at a young age. He attended North Forsyth High School, where he met the love of his life, Phyllis, and began his greatest accomplishment: building a family. He dedicated his life to the joy and happiness of his family, always making sacrifices to provide for his children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren.
He was known for his thoughtfulness, always ensuring his family had what they needed for special moments, whether it was a Dewey’s cake for birthdays or graduations or his presence at their milestones. A man of dedication, he was often found behind the camera, capturing memories during vacations, cheerleading practices for his daughters, or football practices for his son. His commitment extended into his later years, as he continued to attend his grandchildren’s activities with pride and love.
Charlie began his career at Burlington Industries and later worked at Pilot Freight in Kernersville, NC. He eventually ran his own successful convenience store, Charlie’s Market, in Belews Creek, NC, alongside his wife.
He will always be remembered for his meticulous attention to detail and his unwavering work ethic. Whether it was shining his show truck, polishing his shoes, ironing his clothes, dusting shelves at Charlie’s Market, or simply showing up early (and never late), he exemplified dedication and respect. These qualities became the foundation of the values he instilled in his family.
Charlie enjoyed serving others whenever he could. He volunteered with the Talleys Crossing Volunteer Fire Department and even helped establish the first Fire Brigade at Pilot Freight with his long-time friend, Larry Cooper. His faith was central to his life, and he served First Christian Church for many years as part of their security team.
Above all, Charlie’s greatest joy in life was his wife and family. His legacy of love, hard work, and devotion lives on in the hearts of those who knew and loved him.
The family would like to thank the staff at Kernersville, and Forsyth Hospital. Kate B. Reynolds Hospice Home for the care and support during the final days of our sweet Charlie.
There will be no formal funeral but there will be a celebration of life and visitation with family Saturday Feb. 1st at 6807 Rangecrest Rd. Belews Creek, N.C. 27009 from 2:00-5:00. In lieu of flowers please consider Meal Train for Phyllis Sawyers @ https://www.mealtrain.com/trains/97k3y6