Robert Hampton Sawyer

Robert Hampton Sawyer, Sr., affectionately known as "Boo Boo Sawyer," peacefully entered into the presence of the Lord on Thursday, May 23, 2024.

Born on July 23, 1956, in Washington, DC, to the late George Sawyer and the late Josephine Haydine Sawyer, Robert's life was marked by resilience, dedication, and a love for his family.

Robert received his education through Washington, DC Public Schools. At the young age of twenty-three, he began his boxing career as a southpaw welterweight fighter, representing his hometown of Washington, DC. On March 28, 1979, Robert fought his first amateur fight. His talent and determination quickly earned him recognition as a two-time Golden Glove champion and a two-time AAU champion. A year later, he transitioned to professional boxing, where he continued to showcase his skill and passion for the sport. As a pro, he was the ESPN welterweight champion in 1982. In 1996, Boo Boo retired from boxing and was later inducted into the DC Boxing Hall of Fame. He is remembered as a DC Boxing legend.

Robert was close friends with the late Hector Camacho and was part of Sugar Ray Leonard's camp when Leonard was preparing to fight Marvin Hagler.

After retiring from boxing, Robert turned his passion for the sport into mentoring and training others in the community, including his two sons. He was a devoted husband, proud father, and avid churchgoer. Robert loved to be in the presence of the Lord, and singing and ministering were his favorite things to do. His two favorite gospel songs were "Anchored in the Lord" and “Because of Who You Are. He loved telling his testimony and reminding everyone, "If God can change Boo Boo, He can change anyone!" "Never shy of the spotlight, he loved attention and embraced every opportunity to share his joy and faith.

Robert Sr. leaves to cherish his memory his loving wife Catherine Sawyer, his son Robert Sawyer, his daughter Jasmine Hawkins (Craig Hawkins), and ten grandchildren. He is also survived by his sister Kitty Sawyer Pickett, his brothers Elwood Sawyer and Richard Sawyer, and his sisters-in-law Elizabeth Sewell and Jacqueline Offutt (Darryl Houston) and Mary Sawyer, as well as a host of cousins, nieces, nephews, and friends.

He is preceded in death by his son Delondre Sawyer and four brothers George, Geoffrey, Harry and David Sawyer.

Robert's legacy extends beyond the boxing ring. He was known for his warm heart, unwavering spirit, and the profound impact he had on those who knew him. His memory will be cherished by his family, friends, and the many lives he touched throughout his journey.

What time is it? "It's Boo Boo Time"

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