Obituary of Glenna M Sawdy

Glenna Mae Sawdy Bainbridge, NY Glenna Mae Sawdy of Bainbridge, NY died peacefully at home with her family on September 7, 2009. Born Glenna Mae Cleaver on January 12, 1929 in Liberty, NY, she was the daughter of the late Robert and Josephine (Scoville) Cleaver of Walton, NY. Glenna, a lifelong resident of the area, spent a rebellious youth working in Walton where she earned enough money to buy brand new Harley-Davidson motorcycle in 1948. She then joined the Motor Maids of America and proceeded on many adventures across the country, including racing on Catalina Island. After returning to the area, she went to work for American Plastics in Bainbridge NY, where she made many life-long friends, some of whom introduced her to her future husband, Maurice "Cracker" Sawdy of Afton NY. Cracker and Glenna married on May 12, 1961. Glenna was active in local business with Cracker, having been one-time owners of the Masonville Diner. In 1968 Glenna and Cracker built, opened, and operated the Mason Inn in Masonville NY for many years, where they were well known for their friendliness and hospitality. Glenna was active for years in many organizations, including the American Legion Ladies Auxiliary, VFW Ladies Auxiliary, and the American Alzheimer's Association. Upon retiring, Glenna went on the road once again with her husband, traveling across the county in their motor home. Glenna is survived by her daughter Joan Stevens and husband Garry of Bainbridge, NY, her son Jim Sawdy and wife Myrna of Jacksonville, FL; grandsons Todd Hager of Bainbridge, NY; Jason Hager and wife Teresa of Bainbridge, NY and their children Debbie Holland, Donald Titus, and Daniel Hager; Ryan Sawdy and wife Kristina of Tampa, FL and their children Bella and Ryan Jr.; and Brent Sawdy of Jacksonville, FL; her sister Rotha Shearer, Franklin NY; loving niece Cindy Jo Stoutenberg of North Pole Alaska; and many nephews, nieces, and friends across the country. Glenna was predeceased by her loving husband of 30 years Maurice "Cracker" Sawdy; brothers Oscar, Robert, Don, and George; sisters Lee McKnight, Mary Westcott, Adelaide Kulze, Betty Howe, Margaret Cleaver, and Mildred Bergman. A private graveside service will be held for family Thursday September 17. Friends and family are invited and welcomed to celebrate Glenna's life at the American Legion, 22 Union St, Sidney NY, September 17; a luncheon will be held starting 12noon. In lieu of flowers, please send your donation to The American Alzheimer's Association 225 N. Michigan Ave., Chicago IL 60601, or Hospice & Palliative Care of Chenango County, 21 Hayes St, Norwich NY 13815. Expressions of sympathy may be sent to the family online at www.landersfh.com. Glenna's family would like to extend many thanks to Cindy Jo for her dedication and help in Glenna's care. Arrangements under the direction of C.H. Landers Funeral Chapel 21 Main St. Sidney.