Cover photo for Sarah L. Smith's Obituary
1914 Sarah 2011

Sarah L. Smith

October 27, 1914 — March 15, 2011

Celebrating the Life Achievements of a Virtuous Woman
Sarah Jimerson Manlove Smith was born on October 27, 1914 in Crossett, Arkansas. She was one of seven children born to Elijah and Roxie Jimerson. As a student at Pine Hill Public School, Sarah completed the 8th grade.
Sarah accepted Christ and was baptized at the early age of 14 at Holly Springs Baptist Church in Crossett. There she met and married Charlie Manlove, now deceased. From that union they were blessed with Ethel, Charles, James (Jay) and John.
Sarah moved to Portland in 1945 and united with Morning Star Baptist Church in 1950 under the leadership of Rev. Sylvester McCullum. During this time she met and married Aaron Smith. From that union they were blessed with a daughter, Karen.
Sarah served as a dedicated employee at a local cannery; Travelera�(TM)s Inn, Crown Motel and was a member of the Parent Teacher Association with the Portland Public Schools. In addition she worked in the after school program
Saraha�(TM)s hobbies included listening to gospel music, especially the Jackson Southerners, Trailblazer basketball, spiritual programming, going to church and cooking dinner for her family. In her early years, she was also a member a bowling league.
A woman of God, Sarah worked in several church ministries. She served on the first Usher Board, worked with the Mission Ministry and served in the kitchen ministry for many years. She was a very good cook and baker. Sarah often served food at church anniversaries. You could always count on one of her home made cakes being part of the menu. However, it turned out that leadership, music and singing were her greatest gifts.
Sarah was always part of the Union District Association. She would travel to the state of Washington to be part of the Convention of the Northwest. Many times she would bring her young daughter, Karen.
During her membership, Sarah sang with various choirs which included Morning Star Spiritual Singers and the Senior Choir. Later she became a faithful member of the Mission Chorus. She loved working with children. She served as supervisor of the Sunday School choir for twelve years. In her work with young children, you know she was teaching them at an early age about Christ. Her great influence and humble spirit allowed her to touch so many lives and she helped cultivate the spiritual beginnings of many young people. Under her training some of the choir members went on to become outstanding musicians, soloist, entrepreneurs, pianists, police officers, professional photographers and even a first lady in Seattle, Washington.
One of the people that Sarah influenced was Rev. Felton Howard, former Pastor of Antioch Baptist Church of Portland, Oregon. Sarah could remember when she and her husband began inviting and bringing Rev. Howard to Morning Star. He and his family then united with the church.
As her health began to fail, Sarah could count on her family to be there for help and support. Especially dedicated to helping were Eric, Vicki, DaLontae, and DeAndre. Special thanks can also go out to Sis. Sarah Warren, Sis. Sadie Ross and Sis. Alice Perkins
Sarah faithfully and loyally served under the leadership of Pastor A Wayne Johnson. She was the President of the Mission Chorus where she served diligently for many years. Her leadership and spiritual guidance developed the choir into a great spiritual instrument for the Lord. The Mission Chorus was later renamed the Sarah L Smith Choraliers. Shortly after the church building was destroyed by fire, the choir would meet in her home for rehearsal.
As a devoted member and virtuous woman, she was appointed as a member of the Mothera�(TM)s Board Ministry. Sarah was the longest living servant of Morning Star where she faithfully worked until her health failed her. She was one of the original members who participated in the move from North Fargo to 106 NE Ivy in May of 1959. She dearly loved Morning Star Baptist Church, its Pastor and members.
Saraha�(TM)s favorite scripture is Philippians 4;13 I can do all things through Christ Jesus who strengthens me. Her favorite songs were "Just to Behold His Face" and "Ia�(TM)ve Been Redeemed".
Her home was a gathering place for young people and they knew they had to be on their best behavior as she disciplined with love. "Mama Sarah" as she was affectionately known will be missed.
She was preceded in death by per parents, Elijah and Roxie Jimerson. Three sisters: Ethel Jimerson-Williams, Pearline Jimerson-Tyson, and Lottie Jimerson- Vurgest. Three brothers: John, Emmett and Clemon Jimerson. Three sons: Charles, James and John Manlove. Three grandchildren: Derrick Manlove, Ronald Manlove and Anthony Manlove.
She leaves to cherish her memories a sister Ollie Mae Griffin of Crossett Arkansas. Daughters Ethel Manlove- Ross and Karen Smith of Portland; 13 grandchildren; 30 great grandchildren; 14 great- great grandchildren; four God children and a host of other relatives and friends.

Visitation

Rose City Funeral Home
5625 Northeast Fremont Street
Portland , OR US 97213-1754
Thursday, March 24, 2011, 9:00 AM - 5:00 PM

Service

Morning Star Missionary Baptist Church
4927 Northeast 55th Avenue
Portland , OR US 97218
Friday, March 25, 2011, 11:00 AM

Cemetery

Rose City Cemetery
5625 N.E. Fremont St.
Portland , OR US 97213-1754
Friday, March 25, 2011,

Repast

Morning Star Missionary Baptist Church
4927 Northeast 55th Avenue
Portland , OR US 97213
Friday, March 25, 2011,


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