Raymond Connell Sawyer was born in Harrisburg, Pennsylvania on September 28, 1943 to Gladys Myers Sawyer and Raymond Westfield Sawyer, Jr.

Ray obtained an undergraduate degree from Shippensburg University; a Master's degree from University of Washington, Seattle; and he received his PhD from the University of Illinois.  Ray and his wife Sharon moved to Clemson, South Carolina, where Ray taught in the College of Performing Acts at Clemson University for 31 years.  Although Ray had many accolades during his tenure at Clemson, one notable accomplishment was his production of the play "American Buffalo," which was chosen from hundreds of plays to be performed at the Kennedy Performing Arts Center in Washington, DC, as well as at Piccolo Spoleto in Charleston, South Carolina.  The proceeds of the show helped establish a scholarship for aspiring actors and actresses at Clemson University Performing Arts Center.

Ray was a mentor for his students and stayed in contact with some of them until his death.  Ray's abilities extended beyond being a gifted director and teacher.  He was accomplished at adjudicating, critiquing, and all other aspects of playwriting.  He did not write as much as he would have liked, as he always put the emphasis on his students' work rather than his own.  This was Ray's way- always putting others before himself.

Ray retired from Clemson University as an Emeritus Centennial Professor and he and his wife Sharon eventually moved to Richmond Hill, Georgia, to be close to their daughter, Alison, and her family.

Ray was a trusted advisor and friend.  He always listened and gave thoughtful, sage advice.  He was honest, optimistic, and kind to a fault.  His friendship, encouragement, and comfort were given freely and often.  He inspired, supported, and believed in those he loved. Ray was not one to shy away from a philosophical or challenging discussion.  He was, as a friend of his described him, "a warrior poet." Ray was passionate but respectful in his great debates.  Ray fought hard for what was right and he never backed down from his beliefs.  Without a doubt, Ray would always do the right and moral thing.  And, most importantly, he was a spiritual man and had fundamental faith in God.

Ray had a mischievous side.  Stories of Ray's adventures are too numerous to count.  He was always ready for anything with a twinkle in his eye.  He was known to break out in dance in public and, as forever a theater person, was always "on stage." Although affectionately referred to sometimes as a bull in a china shop, Ray was a gentle soul.

Ray was a dear friend, confidante, husband, and "Poppy."  His family was his life and he was always willing to drop anything to step in and help.  Ray made sure to be present at every important event in his children's and grandchildren's lives.  He was their biggest cheerleader, greatest supporter, and absolutely delighted in being "Poppy." His love for his family was unmatched.

Ray was charitable, almost to a fault, and painstakingly researched how best to help others.  He, without a doubt, made an immeasurable difference in many people's lives.

Ray will be missed beyond words.  His feisty spirit and kind soul will be forever in the hearts of many.  His energy, faith, and spirit cannot be replaced.  Ray is survived by his wife, Sharon; his children Justin Sawyer (Amy) and Alison Kennickell (Trip); and his grandchildren Sophie Sawyer, Sadie Sawyer, Lila Grace Kennickell, Stratton Kennickell, and Caroline Kennickell.

May he forever rest in peace and keep an eye on all of his grandchildren from heaven.