BELFAST — Tom Sawyer, 70, died peacefully April 18, 2016, after a long illness, at his home in Belfast. Tom was born Feb. 20, 1946, in Belfast, and had lived in Northport and Belfast his entire life. He was a graduate of Crosby High School, Class of 1964.

Tom held many jobs in his life. In his early years, he was a police officer with the City of Belfast. He also sold life insurance, owned a garage and later worked at several variety stores in town.

He and the family also owned a racehorse at one point and loved nothing more than to attend races throughout the state. Tom was an avid card player and loved to play poker with Ben and the crew out in Liberty, earning him the nickname "The Snake" for his style of play.

Tom was predeceased by his father, Ulric Sawyer of Northport.

Surviving are his wife of 43 years, Ellen Simmons Sawyer; his sons, Ben Sawyer and his wife, Mandie, and their children, Brynne and Aubrey, and Tom Sawyer Jr.; his brothers, Cliff and Terry Sawyer and their families; his mother, Ruth Sawyer; and his faithful dog, Allie, who never left his side. Missing him also are two special friends, Mitch Brown and Ed Brown.

The family would like to thank Dr. Block, who had been Tom's doctor for 38 years and was integral in keeping Tom as healthy as he was for as long as he was. We would also like to thank Dr. Molison and his office staff for their unending support.

There will be a gathering of friends on Saturday, April 30, from 5 to 7 p.m. at Riposta Funeral Home, 182 Waldo Ave. in Belfast.

In lieu of flowers, please consider making a donation to an animal rescue of your choice.