Gracie grew up in the Pentecostal church. As a young adult, she obeyed the Gospel of Christ and became a faithful member of Sweet Union Church of God in Christ in New Edinburg, Arkansas. She loved attending services, serving her church, and firmly believed in the power of prayer.
Gracie was employed by Burlington Industries and later worked as an in-home caregiver, dedicating a combined total of 30 years to serving others. She was an exceptionally hard worker who cherished spending time with her family, friends, and church family. Gracie was the heart of every family gathering and always enjoyed making sure everyone was well fed. She was known for her remarkable knowledge of her family's history and had a passion for cooking, cleaning, and tending to her beautiful flower gardens.
In addition to her parents and her husband, Gracie was preceded in death by four brothers, James Washington, Edward Washington, Eugene Washington, and Newt Washington, Jr.; and two sisters, Margaret Griggs and Joyce Darrough.
Gracie leaves to cherish her memory her loving and devoted daughter, Winter (Marvin) Owens, and her son, Stacy Sawyer; four grandchildren, Chancellor Owens, Jazlyn Owens, Stacy Sawyer, Jr., and Marvin Owens, Jr.; two brothers, Bernard Washington and John (Kimberly) Washington; three sisters, Leola Roberts, Earlene Middleton, and Hazelene (James) McCray, Sr.; two sisters-in-law, Shirley Washington and Barbara Washington; and a host of nieces, nephews, extended family members, and dear friends who will forever cherish her memory.
Visitation will be held on Tuesday, July 7, 2026, from 9:00 to 11:00 a.m. at Stephenson-Dearman Funeral Chapel. Homegoing Celebration services will follow at 1:00 p.m. at Holy Deliverance Church of God in Christ, 1109 South Myrtle Street, Warren, Arkansas. Interment will follow at Oakland Cemetery.
Condolences(5)
Jessie Williams
Monticello, AR Saturday, July 11, 2026 Earlene Middleton and Family. I extend my deepest condolences to you and your family in the passing of Gracie. May love and support surround your family during this time of sorrow. Please know that you are in my thoughts and prayers.Sharon Shook McIntyre
Monticello, AR Wednesday, July 8, 2026Hazelene & Family,
I am so sorry to hear of your sister's passing. Please know that you all are in my thoughts and prayers.
Sincerely,
Sharon
Zach
Crossett, AR Tuesday, July 7, 2026 My sincere condolences to your family during this difficult time.Peggy Orr
Wilmar, AR Tuesday, July 7, 2026 To the family and friends of Mrs. Gracie Sawyer I extend sincere condolences to each of you. Mrs. Gracie was a strong woman of faith, family commitment, loving and giving. A true example of love thy neighbor as thyself. May her legacy live on.Sherry Ellis O'Neill
Monticello, AR Monday, July 6, 2026 To Gracie's family:I am so sorry for your loss. Gracie and I went to Drew Central High School together. She was a very sweet & friendly person whom I truly liked & admired.
Later, in the late 70's when my kids were little, I worked at the Nursing Home with Mrs. Addie. And everybody loved Mrs. Addie. Gracie was a wonderful person who will be missed , but she will live on thru her family stories.
Y'all are in my thoughts and prayers. May God wrap His loving arms around you and comfort you. ??