Norris Sawmiller, 75, of Mendon, passed away on Saturday, November 15, 2025 in his home surrounded by his family.

Norris was born on February 25, 1950 at Celina Gibbons Hospital in Celina to the late Paul Eugene and Jean Avon (Kolter) Sawmiller. He graduated from Spencerville High School in 1968 before joining the military. He was a proud member of the 101st Airborne Division, serving one tour in Vietnam. After returning from the service, he farmed full time with his family. On November 28, 1981, he was united in marriage to Norma Jean Colter and they were blessed with twenty-four grandchildren and three great grandchildren.

Norris was an avid farmer and liked to hike, golf, fishing with Chuck & Steve, and spend time with his family. He was very proud of his time in the military.

Norris is survived by his wife, Jean; six children, Aaron (Leah) Colter of Minster, Jered (Allie) Colter of Versailles, Mary (Chris) Dillhoff of Worthington, Brandy (Ryan) Suman of Celina, Paul (Sarah) Sawmiller of Mendon, Jordan (Amanda) Sawmiller of Versailles; twenty-four grandchildren; and three great grandchildren; four siblings, Paula Bice of Spencerville, Claudine Hawk of Spencerville, Roxanne Louth of Spencerville, Michael (Laura) Sawmiller of Spencerville. He was preceded in death by his parents.

There will be a visitation on Wednesday, November 19, 2025 from 2:00-8:00 p.m. at Thomas E. Bayliff Funeral Home in Spencerville.

His funeral service will be held at a later date at The Sawmiller Farm near Mendon with Pastor Andrew J. Atkins officiating. Military honors will be provided by local veterans and Army Honor Guard.

Memories may be shared and viewed by visiting www.baylifffuneral.com.

Thomas E. Bayliff Funeral Home in Spencerville is caring for Norris and his family. In lieu of flowers, preferred memorials may be given to Dr. Dwight Owen with the James A. Rhodes Cancer Center.