Edith Leona Sampson Sawyer, surrounded by her family, answered the master’s call and transitioned to her heavenly home on Thursday, October 6, 2022. She was the second born of seven children to the late Elmo and Agnes Sampson, Sr. on November 15, 1946, in Portsmouth, Va.

She was educated in the Portsmouth Public School system and graduated from I.C. Norcom High School in 1964. While attending I. C. Norcom, she was a member of the band and modern dance team.

Edith served on the Portsmouth Police department from 1975-1988. She was the first African American and first woman to serve as a Forensic Detective. She was known for her strong interrogation skills, meticulous care in collecting evidence and compassion she displayed to the citizens of Portsmouth. In addition, she took pride in her appearance. Because of the care and time she took with the residents of Portsmouth, she received numerous accommodations and merited praise from city officials and District Court judges.

Married for over 57 years, Edith married the love of her life, Earl L. Sawyer Sr., on July 17th, 1964. Anyone who knew her, knew she LOVED her husband. Through their blessed union was born Felecia, Earl Jr., and Monique.

Edith loved entertaining friends and family. She enjoyed shopping, traveling and spending time with family. Besides her husband, her children and grandchildren were the complete joys of her life.

For many years, Edith was a faithful member of Faith Deliverance Christian Center where she served in the Helping Hands Ministry, Orchestra, Marriage Ministry and Seasoned Saints. She loved God with all her heart which she constantly displayed in her conversation and songs of praise.

Edith is predeceased by husband Earl Sawyer, Sr., one sister, Claudia Harper, great-grand-daughter Aryella Porter. She leaves to cherish her three children, Felecia Thomas, Earl L. Sawyer, Jr., and Monique Jackson; special sons, Angel N. Porter and Stacen L. Jackson; four sisters, Julia Knight, Evelyn Harper (Harold), Phyllis Sampson, Kathleen Atkinson (John, Sr.) and one brother, Elmo Sampson, Jr. Edith has four grandchildren, four great-grandchildren and a host of relatives and friends.