Willie Sara

Powell

Obituary

Willie Sara Harris Powell

November 20th, 1915 ~ October 6th, 2017

Proverbs 3:5~6

T rust in the Lord with all thine heart; and lean not unto thine own understanding.

In all thy ways acknowledge him, and he shall direct thy paths.

W illie Sara Harris Powell, known as Willa Sara, was born in South Hampton County, Ivor Virginia on November 20th, 1915; she was one of six children born to the late Mary Etta Warren Harris and William Harris Sr.  At the tender age of nine years old, Willa confessed her life to Jesus Christ, and was baptized at Gilfield Baptist Church in Ivor, Virginia.

In 1938 along with her family, she moved to New York City where she later joined the Union Baptist Church under the direction of Reverend George Sims. Willa immediately joined the Adelphi Choir, she was a member of the Virginia Circle and the Usher Board as well.

Willa was employed by the New York Telephone Company for ten years, she completed the full course of Beauty Culture. Willa loved to style hair, she had a loyal following that regularly visited her home to get dolled up.  Willa also loved children she was adored by the children that she served as a part time food service worker in the Englewood Elementary School System.  Many times, she would be stopped on the street and hugged by grown men and women that recognized her from their early days.

On December 31st, 1965, she was united in holy matrimony to James Powell Sr. and became a loving wife and mother to Mary Powell and James Powell Jr.  Upon the passing of her husband she relocated to Tuscaloosa, Alabama to be close to her favorite brother Melvin. Later Willa returned to New Jersey and joined the Ebenezer Baptist Church. Willa lived a full, long, and wonderful life.

Willa leaves to cherish her memories, Grandson Richard Hamilton, Great granddaughter Malia Hamilton, Nephews Brian Harris, Leander Harris Jr., Kenneth Harris, Michael Harris, Nieces Natisha Harris, Mae Harris, Rasheda Harris, Joyce Harris, Nikyta Harris, Joy Harris, God Daughter Celestine Grimes; a host of other nieces, nephews and friends.