HOT SPRINGS VILLAGE — Tai “Jean” Sawyer,

92, of Hot Springs Village (formerly of Sherwood) passed away Sunday, April 25, 2021. She was born October 2, 1928, in Tokyo, Japan, to the late Genjiro and Haru Yokota. Jean met and married Donald Sawyer in Japan, while he was serving there as a member of the United States Air Force. Jean became a naturalized citizen of the United States of America in 1956. After spending over 24 years traveling to the far corners of the world as an Air Force family, Jean and Donald and their three children settled in Arkansas.

Jean loved helping people, whether it was a family member, a friend, a church member or even a stranger. She flourished as a member of the First Assembly of God church in Jacksonville where she found many ways to serve. She also loved her family—doting on everyone—-especially the grandchildren and great-grandchildren.

In addition to her parents, Jean was preceded in death by her husband of 60 years, Donald Sawyer; brother, Akio Yokota; as well as her son, Ronald. She is survived by her sister, Yoko (Uchino); brothers, Isamu (Keiko)and Akira (Saeko); daughter, Joanne Chambers of Hot Springs Village; son, Steven Sawyer of North Little Rock; as well as six grandchildren; and 14 great-grandchildren.

The family would like to thank the many caregivers at Fox Ridge in Bryant, Right At Home in Hot Springs Village, and Elite Hospice. These compassionate angels assisted the family in providing “Mrs. Tai” the best quality of life she could have experienced in her later weeks and days. Especially, we recognize Ms. Donna Plummer of Fox Ridge in Bryant for her undying commitment and love for our mom.

Funeral services will be 2 p.m. Saturday May 1, 2021, at First Assembly of God Church in Jacksonville, Ark.; officiated by Brother Gary Ingold with visitation being one hour prior. Internment will take place at a later date at the Arkansas State Veterans Cemetery. Funeral arrangements by Moore’s Jacksonville Funeral Home. (501) 982-2136.