WILMINGTON — With a heart full of faith and joy, Rachel Helen Sawyer (sis) entered the gates of Heaven singing praises to the Lord on July 8, 2026. Surrounded by the love and grace of the Savior, she is now rejoicing in eternal peace, where every sorrow has been replaced with everlasting joy. Though deeply missed by family and friends left behind, Rachel’s song of faith continues in the presence of God.
Rachel was born on April 9, 1966 in Rose Hill, NC. She is survived by her devoted mother, Etta Fryar Brunck; beloved son, Andrew Sean Shokouhi (Bonnie); and cherished brothers, Cecil Lawrence Sawyer (Suzanne), and Michael Harrison Sawyer (Tina); beloved nieces Robyn (Katie) Sawyer Penick (Michael), Lauren Sawyer Guderian (Shawn); Jamison Kiyomi Sawyer, and nephew Lincoln John Sawyer. She was lovingly known as “GAR” to her special great nieces and nephews Mary-Shepard Penick, Kathryn “Rhodes” Penick, Michael Steele Penick, III “Tripp”; Flash Sawyer Guderian, and Samson Wade Guderian.
Rachel loved her family dearly and treasured the many friendships she made throughout her life. She truly enjoyed spending time with her family and friends. She was loved by all who knew her.
Rachel had a beautiful, powerful singing voice that could bring the house down. Today, we take comfort in knowing she is singing in Heaven, free from pain and tears.
As a family, we find peace in God’s promise that we will see her again in Heaven. We give God all the glory for all He has done and for the strength He will continue to provide as we move forward, trusting in Him.
A visitation and Celebration of Life honoring Rachel will be held at 2 p.m. on Sunday, July 19, 2026 at Whispering Pines Baptist Church, 6547 Carolina Beach Road, Wilmington, NC.
