Dennis Robert Sawford, 74, of Slippery Rock, Lawrence County, passed away at his residence on Saturday, Aug. 24, 2024, following an extended illness. He was born in Butler on Nov. 10, 1949, to Brian Sawford and Geraldine Mae Young Sawford. Dennis graduated from Butler High School in 1968. Dennis married Joyce Ann Fleming on June 16, 1972.

Dennis first worked on the B&O Railroad as a Track Foreman in Butler. He later worked at ARMCO STEEL in Butler as a Millwright Electrician. He was a former member of Hill United Presbyterian Church.

Dennis served honorably in the U.S. Army from 1969 to 1975. He was a woodworker extraordinaire. He made numerous items for Storm Harbor Equestrian Center located on the campus of Slippery Rock University. He was an avid hunter, gardener and a giant Pittsburgh Pirates Fan. He enjoyed collecting Pirates memorabilia.

Survivors include his wife, Joyce Sawford, at home; daughter, Courtney E. Gramlich, of Slippery Rock; one sister, Terre E. (Gerald) Patterson, of Butler; two brothers, Brian D. (Connie) Sawford, of Butler, and Billy G. (Lori) Sawford, of Gibsonia; and a number of nieces and nephews. He is preceded in death by his parents and an infant son.

There will be a Celebration of Life and Faith service for Dennis on Friday, Aug. 30, 2024, at 7 p.m. at the Smith Funeral Home, 421 New Castle St., Slippery Rock, with Dr. Tina Hosler of South Plain Grove Presbyterian Church presiding.

The family will receive friends at the Smith Funeral Home in Slippery Rock on Friday, Aug. 30 from 4 p.m. until the time of service at 7 p.m.

Memorial Contributions may be made to Storm Harbor Equestrian Center payable to "SRU Foundation INC." 104 Maltby Ave., Slippery Rock.