Ernestine W. Sawyer

Ernestine Wilson Sawyer, 101, passed away peacefully on February 8, 2024, with her loving children by her side.

Born on January 18. 1923 in Oil City Louisiana to Jeff and Eloise Wilson.  Her sisters Betty and Eleanor were born into the family years later.

The Great East Texas Oil Boom brought her family to Gladewater.  Here was where her love for the city of Gladewater began.  She graduated Gladewater High School in 1940.   Dance was her first love.  She would travel to Dallas and achieve her Dancing Certificate.  She would teach for a few years. World War II started and she became president of the local USO welcoming returning service men, she met a handsome soldier named Tom Sawyer.  They would be married on March 19, 1945.

Ernestine’s first child, Tommy (Tom Jr) was born in 1945, second child, Ronnie born 1947 deceased 2022, followed by daughters Jan, Karen, Annette and Patti.

For years she was an accomplished seamstress, sewing costumes for majorettes, cheerleaders and the Honey Bears.  She also created bridal, bridesmaids and pageant dresses for her daughters and many others.

After the passing of her beloved husband Tom, she became more involved at Saint Theresa’s Catholic Church.   She was heavily involved in the planning and development of what would later be known as Gladewater Former Students Association.  Both would proclaim her as their “Kitchen Queen”.

Gardening was her therapy.   Anyone could see this as they drove past the family home on Gay Avenue.  

Preceded in death by numerous loved ones.  Ernestine is survived by son Tom and wife Debbie of Hallsville, daughter in law Nelda Sawyer of Longview, daughters Jan of Kyle, Karen and husband Danny of Longview, Annette of Austin and Patti of Gladewater.  Also leaving behind her cherished grandchildren and great grandchildren.  

Our family would like to thank all the wonderful people at Parkview on Hollybrook for their love and care of our Mother.  Longview Regional Hospital for the most wonderful nursing care especially ER and 2^nd floor PCU West.  PrimeCare Hospice staff for helping Mom and our family during this difficult time.   And finally Dr. Rangu for his constant care of Mom for many years.

She was affectionately known as Ernestine, Momma and Memaw.  Her motto was “always be nice to everyone, even those a little on the wrong side”.