Melvin LeRoyce Sawyer, a resident of Fairhope, AL, died on Wednesday, February 10, 2021, at the age of 80. He was born in 1940 in Frisco City, Alabama to J.W. and Thelma Sawyer. The family moved to Mobile in 1942 where his father worked building war ships during WWII.
“Royce” or “Mel”, as he was called, graduated from Murphy High School and Athens State College. He taught HVAC at SW State Junior College, Faulkner State College and Faulkner High School for 27 years. He was an excellent teacher and had students who won national awards in HVAC skill competitions.
Mel was preceded in death by his parents, J.W. and Thelma Sawyer; siblings, Jim, Bill, Ray, Sue Irvin; his first wife, “Brownie”; and two children, Scott and Paige Prine (Jr.)
He is survived by his second wife, Faye; one son, Todd (Regina); five grandchildren, Shanna Jones (Rees), Justin Prine (Heidi), Rachel Sims (Lane), Caleb and Matthew; and three great-grandsons, Brodie, Baker and Benton Jones; along with aunts, uncles, cousins, nieces and nephews.
Mel was a kind and generous man who was a natural storyteller. One of his most endearing qualities was his keen sense of humor. He was quick witted and never forgot a joke. He loved his family, his friends, and good southern food. Mel was also a music enthusiast. He enjoyed singing, writing songs, and playing his banjo. He many interests, which included cooking, camping, sailing, traveling, playing golf, and Alabama Football. He was deeply loved by his family and will be missed forever.
A memorial service will be held on Saturday, May 14, 2022 at the Lake Forest Yacht Club, 1 Golf Terrance in Daphne, AL, at 11:00 AM.
Expressions of condolence for the family may be made at www.hughesfh.com. Hughes Funeral Home, 26209 Pollard Road, Daphne, AL, is assisting the family.
We are so sorry to learn of Royce’s passing. We attended church with Royce and his family for many years and I had the pleasure of working with him for almost 20 years. Royce was always willing to mentor new teachers and help them adjust from industrial jobs to teaching vocational skills. His stories brought belly laughs and tears of laughter. His passing brings tears of sadness. His stories will never be forgotten, and neither will he. We will cherish memories of him forever.
Royce loved his family and our thoughts are with all of you.