Bridgewater, VT- James "Jim" Sawyer, 70, of Bridgewater, Vermont, passed away peacefully in his sleep at his home in Bridgewater on September 29, 2025.

Born on December 18, 1954, in Bennington, Vermont, Jim was the son of Julius William Sawyer and Mary Elizabeth Rice. He grew up in central Vermont and attended Whitcomb High School in Bethel. On January 13, 1973, Jim married the love of his life, Helen Demar, at St. Anthony's Catholic Church in Bethel, VT. Their marriage of 52 years has been a testament of enduring love and commitment. In recent years, Jim devoted himself as Helen's primary caretaker with patience, strength, and compassion.

Jim attended the Vermont Police Academy and served as a constable in South Royalton before finding his lifelong trade in auto mechanics. He worked at various garages and shops throughout the years, known for his skill and honesty under the hood.

Jim was of French, Abenaki & Iroquois descent and took great pride in his heritage. He was actively involved in the cultural life of his community, attending powwows in Swanton and Newport, VT and participating in gatherings of the Missisquoi & Nulhegan Band and Clan of the Hawk.

A true Vermonter, Jim found joy and peace outside in nature. He loved hunting, fishing, hiking, and camping, especially when he could share those moments with family. His woodworking and artistic talents brought beauty to everyday life through intricate engravings and wood burnings that captured his creativity and craftsmanship.

Jim had a special place in his heart for animals, especially his beloved pugs and rescue pups. But perhaps his greatest joy came from being "Grandpa Jim" He was goofy, gentle, and endlessly proud, never missing a chance to teach his grandkids how to fish or make them laugh.

Jim was predeceased by his parents, and siblings: William "Bill" Sawyer, Tina Sawyer, Dona Sawyer, Dennis Sawyer, Steve Sawyer, Joe Sawyer, and Fay-Ann Sawyer.

Survivors include his wife of 52 years, Helen, his children, Elizabeth Sawyer and husband Jeremy Robinson of Bridgewater, Daniel Sawyer and his wife Claudia of Anchorage, Alaska and Stuart Sawyer and wife Robynn of Hartland; siblings, Edward Sawyer of White River Junction, Cheryl Sawyer of Derby, VT, Cathy Sawyer of Williamstown, VT; grandchildren, Daniel, Kayla, Adakin, Riya and adopted granddaughters, Caleigh, and Faith; great grandchildren, Zoe, Axl, and Noelle, as well as many nieces, nephews, cousins, extended family members, and loved ones.

Knight Funeral Home has been entrusted with arrangements. Condolences may be expressed in an online guestbook found at www.knightfuneralhomes.com