Maj. John D. Sayre Sr., 83, of Columbia, S.C., formerly of Olney, died Wednesday, April 16, 2008, at Dorn VA Hospital in Columbia, S.C.  Graveside services at Haven Hill Cemetery in Olney. Full military rites performed by Olney veterans organizations. He will be laid to rest next to his infant daughter, his brothers and his parents.

Mr. Sayre was born March 15, 1925, in Richland County, the son of Roy and Della Mae (Weber) Sayre.

He was a retired major in the military, beginning his military career in 1943 when he joined the U.S. Navy and later the U.S. Air Force. He served his country in three wars.

Mr. Sayre is survived by his son, John D. Sayre Jr.; daughters, Cathy Back, Debra Garrington, Laurie Deale, Toni Macy and Mari Beerman; several grandchildren; and one great-granddaughter.

He was preceded in death by his parents, brothers and infant daughter.

Published in Olney Daily Mail (IL)