Patty Wilhelm Sawyer

Patty Wilhelm Sawyer, a beloved mother, grandmother, sister, and cherished friend, passed away peacefully on October 7,2024, at Elliot Hospital in Manchester, New Hampshire, at the age of 91. Patty was born on August 5, 1933, in the quaint town of Mooresville, North Carolina, and her spirit was as vibrant as the nature she so dearly loved.

A proud graduate of the University of North Carolina Greensboro, Patty’s career flourished as a park naturalist for New Jersey’s Monmouth County Park System. Her passion for wildlife sparked a joy for the outdoors that she eagerly shared with others, inspiring countless visitors to appreciate the wonders of nature. She was not just a steward of the environment but also a beacon of knowledge and guidance, fostering a deep love for wildlife and birdwatching in all she encountered.

Patty was a generous and gracious woman. She will be remembered for the love and laughter that she shared during her well-lived life. As we remember Patty, let us take a moment to honor her life full of generosity, compassion, and a joyful spirit that touched the lives of all who were fortunate enough to know her. She leaves behind a legacy of love and appreciation for the natural world and a reminder to embrace every moment with laughter.

She found solace and community within the Congregational Church of Hooksett, where she actively participated, enriching her spiritual life and the lives of those around her. As an avid sports enthusiast, Patty looked forward to watching every PGA tournament, gleefully cheering for her favorite players from the comfort of her home. Her unending interest in wildlife brought her peace and joy, making each day a new adventure filled with discovery and appreciation.

Patty is survived by her son, David V. Sawyer, and his wife, Nancy Joslin; her son, Blane F. Sawyer; and her granddaughter, Mary Sawyer; her sister, Vicki Watkins, each of whom held a special place in her heart, filled with cherished memories and love.

A memorial gathering will be held on October 29, 2024, from 10:00 AM to 11:00 AM. A memorial service will begin at 11:00 AM with a luncheon at the Fellowship Hall to follow, all at the Congregational Church of Hooksett, located at 5 Veterans Drive Hooksett, NH 03106.

In lieu of flowers, the family would ask donations to be made to N.H. Audubon Massabesic Center, the National Wildlife Federation, or to the Red Cross for hurricane relief in North Carolina.