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Rev. Robert James Sayer

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James A. McAlister Funerals & Cremation

1620 Savannah Highway

Charleston, South Carolina

Robert Sayer Obituary

Rev. Robert James Sayer Yonges Island, SC - Father Robert J. Sayer, pastor of St. Mary's Church on Yonges Island and Sts. Frederick & Stephen Mission on Edisto Island, died Jan. 28. He was 60. A Mass of Transferal for Father Sayer will be held 6:00 PM Thursday, February 4, 2021, at Sts. Frederick & Stephen Mission, 544 Hwy. 174, Edisto. The parish will be open from 4-6 PM for personal prayer before Mass. The Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated 12:00 Noon Friday, February 5, 2021, at the Cathedral of St. John the Baptist, 120 Broad Street, Charleston. For those unable to attend, the Mass of Christian Burial will be livestreamed on the Cathedral's Facebook page: facebook.com/cathedralst.johnthebaptist. The Rite of Committal will follow at Holy Cross Cemetery on James Island. Born on Oct. 23, 1960, in Watertown, NY, Father Sayer was a son of the late Douglas Sayer and Carol Moulton Sayer. His family was part of the U.S. Navy, moving frequently throughout the years. He was a graduate of Gordon H. Garrett High School and Trident Technical College, both in North Charleston, SC and earned an Associate's Degree in commercial art. Through contacts in the former Catholic Youth Organization, he was hired at Bobbin Magazine, a trade publication for the apparel industry, in Columbia. He worked in public relations and research for five years before moving back to Charleston and working as a national marketing manager for Blackbaud. Then, following his discernment path, he entered St. Charles Borromeo Seminary in Pennsylvania, earning a Bachelor's in Philosophy in 1995 and his Master of Divinity in 1998.He was ordained a priest by Bishop David B. Thompson in June 1999 at the Cathedral of St. John the Baptist. "Priests aren't handed out of heaven in full vestment," Father Sayer said during his time as a transitional deacon in 1999. "They are normal guys who just happened to be called to this line of work. If God only called the holiest of the holies, we wouldn't have too many priests." Father Sayer served in many parishes, including St. Michael in Garden City, Good Shepherd in McCormick, Sacred Heart in Abbeville, St. Thomas the Apostle in North Charleston, St. Theresa the Little Flower in Summerville, Our Lady Star of the Sea in North Myrtle Beach and Corpus Christi in Lexington. He was serving as pastor of St. Mary and Sts. Frederick & Stephen Mission upon his death. Father Sayer was predeceased by his father, Douglas. He is survived by his mother, Carol, of North Charleston; his brother, Ron Sayer (Kathryn); and two sisters, Debbie Metts (Keith) and Cindy Sayer; and his nieces and nephews and great-nieces and great-nephews, Ronnie and Virginia Sayer, and their daughter, Libby; Justin and Tyler Sayer and their children, Finley and Reid; Trey and Megan Metts and their children, Drew and Brinley; and Maddy and Avery Peek. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the Diocese of Charleston for prison ministry or to pregnant women in crisis, at 901 Orange Grove Road, Charleston, SC 29407. Condolences may be sent to Mrs. Carol Mae Sayer at 5310 Eileen Street, North Charleston, SC 29418. Arrangements by JAMES A. MCALISTER, Inc. 1620 Savannah Hwy, Charleston. (843) 766-1365. Visit our guestbook at legacy.com/obituaries/charleston

To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.

Published by Charleston Post & Courier from Feb. 2 to Feb. 3, 2021.

Memories and Condolences
for Robert Sayer

Sponsored by James A. McAlister Funerals & Cremation.

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Cindy Maietta

August 19, 2022

He was one in a gazillion. When my husband was very sick and he was on the way to last rights to one of his best friend,He made it a point to stop at the hospital and do the same for my husband. He was such a source of comfort. Rest in Heavenly peace ♥

L Hendrix

June 25, 2022

I think about Father Bob so often. He had such a rare gift and touched so many lives. I pray for him at Corpus Christi often in the prayer garden. He also had an amazing impact on our youth.
When he had to leave Corpus Christi was one of the saddest times for myself and my family. It truly impacted me as a Catholic. He was the light there.
I pray for his family so much. He was one of the kindest of souls I’ve ever known. A perfectly rare Catholic priest.

Betsy Newcomb Long

January 27, 2022

There is hardly a day goes by I don´t think of Father Bob! He and I shared a special friendship!

Cara Ledlie Condra

March 4, 2021

Father Bob said a Memorial Mass for my father last summer at the beautiful new church on Edisto. Father Bob was a great comfort as we texted and called back and forth about the arrangements. It was a true pleasure to meet him in person. I am back at Edisto this weekend and was so saddened to hear of his passing. I am praying that God is holding you in the palm of His hand. Perhaps you and my dad are sharing some Edisto fish tales.

Laura Stevens

February 23, 2021

Memory eternal. <3

Candice Escoe

February 9, 2021

Our family sends our deepest condolences. My now 13 year old son used to call him Father God - after each mass I remember him giving hugs and high fives to my little toddler! He was a blessing to us during his time at Corpus Christi.

Sandra Townsend

February 5, 2021

Father Bob was my pastor during the most difficult time of my life. I don't know what I would have done without his help and care. He was a wonderful priest, man and friend. May Jesus welcome him home.

Hanahan Senior Center

February 5, 2021

Please know that the entire Sayer family is in our thoughts and in our prayers.

Donna Gustafson

February 4, 2021

It was my privilege to know and be part of St Johns the Beloved CYO in the late 70s and early 80 with Bob. He was a great friend, great leader, so much fun, always laughing and up for anything. I haven't seen him in years and am very sorry to hear of his passing. He will always have a special place in my heart and he's been taken far too soon. Praying for his family and friends. God bless and may he rest in peace.

Mary Gertner

February 4, 2021

Carol, I cannot express the sorrow I felt when I learned of Bob’s passing. My mind traveled back to the wonderful years we experienced in the CYO. Bob was a natural leader and always ready to step up to any challenge to help the CYO become a better group. I know he has touched many hearts and led many souls to Christ. You and your family are in our hearts and prayers and may you be comforted knowing that our God is walking with through this journey.

JaDee and Jeorji Sayer

February 4, 2021

Our prayers to the family, with all our love.

Steve Palmer

February 4, 2021

Father Bob was at Corpus Christi when Marie and I moved from Atlanta. We were sort of lost but were welcomed by Father Bob and the members of the parish. Father Bob was the only man on earth that could have caused this old Southern Baptist to go through RCIA. He was an amazing man and one of a few men that I have met that is truly unforgettable. I will miss him, but I still have many memories of him and his unique sense of humor. God Bless all of the family.

Ann Campbell

February 4, 2021

Carol, we are so very sorry to hear of Bob’s passing. I can’t help but to think back to our CYO days, knowing he was a leader even then. Even though we mourn his loss, his beautiful spirit will remain with all whose lives he touched. God is definitely holding Bob in the palm of His hand!

Our sincerest condolences,

Bob and Ann Campbell

dona feador

February 4, 2021

I WILL MISS HIM DEEPLY, IN MY PRAYERS

Rene Sewesky

February 3, 2021

I cannot express the loss which we all feel with your passing. You helped my family in so many ways. You showed me the way to nurture my faith. I will never forget you. Rest in Peace.

Kathy Golden

February 3, 2021

My heart sank when they announced his passing during mass at Our Lady Star of the Sea. I always enjoyed his homilies and have fond memories of Father Bob. My sincere condolences to his mother and family.

Joe Massinello

February 3, 2021

Father Bob, was a great Priest and Friend, you will always be remembered by me and the girls, Rest In Peace my friend

Edwin Gerace

February 3, 2021

Father Bob was one of the great ones and we will truly miss him.

Madelyn Esposito

February 3, 2021

Many prayers to the family, friends, parishioners, and loved ones of Fr. Bob. I was heartbroken to hear the news of his passing. He was truly a down to earth servant of God who touched many lives with his kindness, warmth, candor, and humor. I know he certainly touched my life during his time at Our Lady Star of the Sea. He was easy to relate to, and easy to talk to. There wasn't anything that you couldn't feel comfortable talking to him about. And he was ALWAYS there for you when you needed him. He was greatly missed when he left our parish, and I know he will be incredibly missed by so many. I pray that knowing how loved he truly was, and the many happy memories we all have, will bring comfort to his family and loved ones in the days to come. May he rest peacefully in the Lord's loving hands. May the choirs of angels come to greet you. May they lead you to paradise. May the Lord enfold you in His mercy. May you find eternal life. Until we meet again my friend....

Thomas &Connie Reynolds

February 3, 2021

Father Bob was not only our priest but a dear friend. It was he who "pushed over" all obstacles and paved the road to Connie's conversion and later baptism. We loved him dearly!!!
We will miss our visits to him and many meals enjoyed with him. Truly, a man sent by GOD to serve and help people like us.

Father Fitzgerald

February 3, 2021

Fr. Sayer, thank you for all the good that you did as a priest for our diocese. You will be missed. God Bless and prayers. Fr. Fitzgerald

Jeanne Hertzog

February 3, 2021

Father Bob was a wonderful priest and we were so lucky to have him at Corpus Christi Parish for many years. I will continue to pray for him, his family, and his church families. He touched all of us with humor and caring. God bless you, Father Bob!

Retha Nibert

February 3, 2021

My deepest sympathy to the family. My heart is so heavy finding this out today. I remember him as a teen. Such a polite young man.

Adrienne Padner

February 3, 2021

Father Bob was compassionate and caring. He always took time to talk to the members of his parish, and anyone else who might stop by to talk. He had great concern for the prison ministry. His huge smile and bear hugs will be missed.

Florence De Guzman

February 3, 2021

It was a shock to hear of Fr. Bob's sudden demise. As a former member of Corpus Christi parish, parishioners were truly blessed to have had Fr. Bob as pastor for 10 years. During his time, Corpus Christi grew in leaps and bounds. I loved and appreciated his honesty, humor and compassion to everyone. My condolences to his family and thank you as well for sharing Fr. Bob with us. You have finished the race, Fr. Bob and won.

Doug & Jean Clifton

February 3, 2021

Father Bob was my first priest when I entered the Catholic church. As a fellow camper we worshipped with him many times around the state. He has and always will be in my memory. Go with God Father Bob. Will miss worshipping with you.

Renee Moore

February 3, 2021

My heart is broken. My sincerest prayers to All of You, his Family. I truly loved Fr. Bob, and can not believe the World will be without him! We were both born in Watertown, NY! What are the chances of finding your Most Beloved Priest amidst Life's journey, and you come from the same little place in the World? I am truly Blessed to have had him as my Priest, My Shepherd! I will always hold his memory, and his "Little grin" in my heart! God Bless!

Renaye Stafford

February 3, 2021

Thanks for being a part of so many of our journeys - for your faith - for your love - for your support - for your bluntness - for your grace - for your honesty - for your kindness - for your laughter and your sense of humor - for your patience - for your friendship - for being real - for being you. I miss you already and will carry you with me - always. Rest In Peace, my friend. LoveU, Renaye

Ted King

February 2, 2021

Please accept my sincere condolences to Father Bob´s family. I am so so sorry about his passing and I will miss him very much. I met him at St Frederick and St Stephen Church. He was my priest but more importantly he was my spiritual mentor and friend. I truly loved him and have never felt as close to a priest as Father Bob. We had long talks together as he helped me navigate a very difficult time in my life. I will pray for him and for comfort for his love ones during this time of great sadness. RIP Father Bob.

Roberta Morales

February 2, 2021

Rest In Peace Father Bob

Bob and Debbie O’Brien

February 2, 2021

Father Bob will be truly missed. Prayers and condolences to all who loved him.

Anne Bourbonnaus

February 2, 2021

Mrs Sayers your son was an incredible cornerstone in my life and so loved the way he called a spade a spade.
By far the most down to earth priest I ever me
Thanks for sharing him with us .

Mary Wilson

February 2, 2021

On my many visits to Meggett,I was always happy to see Fr. Bob at St.Mary’s church. He always made my family feel at home and very welcomed. He was a very caring priest. He has been prayed for in churches up north.

Kathryn HIMES

February 2, 2021

Mrs. Sayer and family, Father Bob was loved and will be missed by many.
"Eternal rest grant unto him, O Lord, and let perpetual light shine upon him. May his soul and the souls of all the faithful departed, through the mercy of God, rest in peace. Amen. ... Like the seed buried in the ground, you have produced the harvest of eternal life for us; make us always dead to sin and alive to God.

Linda J. Jenkins

February 2, 2021

Carol and family..... I am so very sorry to hear that Bob is no longer with us. I remember him and JJ playing guitars together in the Charleston AFB Chapel; our busload trip to the Cathedral in Savannah; sharing in his Ordination celebration as well as speaking to him after many of the diocese's Chrism Masses. He was always happy to see me and the feelings were mutual. We will truly miss him among God's shepherds. Love and hugs to all of you in your sorrow. Linda

Patricia McCalip

February 2, 2021

My thoughts and prayers are with your family. I am so, so sorry for your loss.

Dcn Coleman Parks

February 1, 2021

We will all miss Fr Bob
He is in my prayers

Rev Philip Gillespie

February 1, 2021

God love you, Robert.

Betsy Newcomb Long

February 1, 2021

Father Bob was a great priest and a good friend! He helped me through some trying times. May God give his family, friends and congregations peace, love and understanding! Rest high Father Bob! You deserve the rest and peace! Betsy

Judy Mason

February 1, 2021

I was so genuinely heartbroken to hear of Fr. Bob's death. He was so very special, so very real, which is why I loved him. He was so kind when my mother was dying and when my husband had his heart attack. My deepest sympathy to his family. Your loss is felt by many.

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Memorial Events
for Robert Sayer

Feb

4

Funeral Mass

6:00 p.m.

Sts. Frederick & Stephen Mission

544 Hwy. 174, Edisto, SC

Feb

5

Mass of Christian Burial

12:00 p.m.

Cathedral of St. John the Baptist

120 Broad Street, Charleston, SC

Funeral services provided by:

James A. McAlister Funerals & Cremation

1620 Savannah Highway, Charleston, SC 29407

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