Mike Sawyer

Michael “Mike” Wayne Sawyer, age 80, of Corinth, Mississippi passed away peacefully on June 29, 2026 at the Sanctuary Hospice House in Tupelo, Mississippi.

Mike was born on February 3, 1946, in Corinth, the son of Pearl Allene Weeks Rickman and Bonnie Henry Sawyer Sr.

After attending Corinth High School, Mike served six years in the National Guard, where he was honorably discharged in 1971. Committed to a life of public service, he then began his career with the City of Corinth Fire Department. Through hard work, dedication, and a deep respect for the fire service, he rose through the ranks to become Captain. To his crew, he was known as “Cap.” After 35 years of service, he retired in 2009.

From the time he was a young boy, Mike had a love for cars that never faded. As a young man, he could often be found drag racing or under the hood of one of his race cars, happiest with grease on his hands and an engine to work on. Over the years, that passion evolved into a deep appreciation for antique cars and hot rods, leading him to spend countless hours restoring, admiring, and proudly sharing them at antique car shows.

Mike married Wanda Schlesser Sawyer on March 26, 1994, and together they shared 32 beautiful years. Rarely far from his faithful dog, Boo Bear, he found constant companionship in his four-legged friend. Mike’s love for animals extended far beyond his own pets. He was a familiar face at the local animal shelter, where he often stopped by to check on the animals and give them a little extra love and attention.

Mike is survived by his wife, Wanda Sawyer; daughter, Amy Duncan; grandchildren, Bryce Duncan (Bailey), Brylee Kate Barnett (Avery); brother, Ricky Rickman (Carolyn); and nieces, Chellie Rickman, Brandy Zebley (Mike), and Lisa McQueen (Mike).

He is preceded in death by his son, Michael Wayne Sawyer Jr.; parents; and brothers, Billy Joe Gunter and Bonnie Henry Sawyer Jr.

There will be a graveside service for friends and family at 11am Friday, July 3, 2026 at Holly Baptist Church Cemetery.  Honorary pallbearers will be the Corinth Fire Department. Magnolia Funeral Home is in charge of the arrangements. In Lieu of flowers contributions may be made in Mike’s memory to the Corinth Animal Shelter.