Marian

Sawdey

Marian Audrey Sawdey, age 89, passed away peacefully at her home in Ocala, Florida, on October 15, 2026.

Marian was born on February 15, 1937, in Erie County, New York, to the late Frank and Violet Nelson.

Throughout her life, Marian was devoted to her family, her community, and supporting our nation’s veterans and military families. She was a longtime and dedicated member of the Disabled American Veterans Auxiliary (DAVA), serving as Commander for Western New York and Northwestern Pennsylvania. She was affiliated with DAVA Unit 47 in Jamestown, New York, and Robert Johns DAV Ladies Auxiliary Unit 73 in Erie, Pennsylvania.

Her commitment to veterans extended beyond her leadership roles. Marian generously volunteered through the VA Voluntary Service (VAVS) program, providing hands-on support to veterans at regional VA medical centers. She was also actively involved in local military spouse associations and volunteer recruitment-support committees, particularly during the years her husband, Kenneth, served in Navy recruiting.

After moving to Florida, Marian became a member of the Moose Lodge, continuing her involvement in community life.

Marian is survived by her daughters, Patricia (Terrance) McCelland of Silver Springs, Florida, and Darlene Potter of Albion, Pennsylvania; six grandchildren; 16 great-grandchildren; and nine great-great-grandchildren.

She was preceded in death by her beloved husband, Kenneth Sawdey, and her son, Jerome Potter.

Marian will be laid to rest with her husband at Florida National Cemetery in Bushnell, Florida, on November 13, 2026, with full military funeral honors.

Her dedication to her family, her service to veterans, and her commitment to helping others will be remembered by all whose lives she touched.