Obituary: Clarence E. (Tom) Sawyer Jr., 76, Of Cheshire

CHESHIRE, CT — (From Alderson-Ford Funeral Home): Clarence E. (Tom) Sawyer Jr., 76, of Cheshire, passed away on Tuesday, March 14, 2023 at Yale-New Haven Hospital. He was the husband of Pamela M. Sawyer.

Tom was born on November 11, 1946 in New Haven, CT, son of the late Clarence E. Sawyer, Sr., and the late Lorraine (Thomas) Sawyer.

In addition to his wife of 50 years, Tom leaves behind his daughters, Tiffany Pelham Webb (Tristan) and Colleen Sawyer, both of Denver, Colorado. He will be greatly missed by his grandchildren, Wyatt and Lila Pelham Webb, who loved him very dearly. Tom is also survived by his sister Dale Eisele (Juergen).

Tom received his BA degree from St. Michael’s College (Vermont), where he made lifelong friends, and his JD degree from Quinnipiac Law School. Following his undergraduate degree, he served in the U.S. Army (1st Air Cavalry) in Vietnam, where he received the Bronze Star for heroic achievement and service.

Upon his return, he was employed by the Armstrong Rubber Company in West Haven as a tire engineer. Tom went on to pursue a 30-year career as an attorney, successfully opening a private practice. His gregarious nature in court will be fondly remembered by all.

In the words of a Superior Court judge: “When Tom Sawyer talks, everybody listens.”

An avid golfer, Tom greatly enjoyed golf trips with his close friends. He was a lifelong coin collector and passionate Red Sox fan, always rooting against the Yankees! He has extensively traveled the world with his family. A notable trip was his return to Vietnam in 2019 with his wife and daughter, 50 years after his service there.

Tom was the greatest husband, father, and grandfather. He was tremendously loved by his family. His greatest joy was spending time with his daughters, son-in-law, and grandchildren in Colorado. Tom was known for his ability to strike up a conversation with anyone and find common ground. He had a quick wit and great sense of humor. He will be greatly missed.

Memorial contributions in his name may be made to the Wounded Warriors Project.

For more information and to leave online condolences, visit Alderson-Ford Funeral Home here.