Sarah Morrison

Sarah Ayner Morrison of Rockford, Tennessee peacefully transitioned this life on earth to be with her Holy Father in heaven on December 7, 2021. Born February 5, 1931, in Charlotte, North Carolina, Sarah Morrison was the youngest of four children born to her parents, the late George and Willette Ayner. Sarah was educated in Charlotte and began the study of piano early in childhood. She was an obedient child and loved learning. Upon graduation from high school Sarah Morrison attended Johnson C. Smith University in Charlotte to pursue her undergraduate studies in elementary education. She was a proud Smith alumna . While in college Sarah was actively involved in Future Teachers of America and the University choir, where she met and married her former husband, Rev. Benjamin F. Thompson. Sarah was inducted as a member of Sigma Gamma Rho Sorority, Incorporated during her undergraduate years at Johnson C. Smith University committing to a life of community service. She went on to become one of the first women of color to obtain a Master’s degree in Elementary Education from the Pennsylvania State University (Penn State) in 1958. Her love for children and education led her to follow this professional passion.

After her first teaching career in North Carolina, Sarah moved to Tennessee. Sarah Morrison was a dedicated and committed educator retiring after 30 years of service. Teaching at Mountain View School, (Knoxville, TN), South Knoxville City Schools and Green Elementary School (Knoxville, TN). “Mrs. Morrison” was one of the most popular first grade teachers around singing the “morning devotions” every morning in the classroom. Admired by other colleagues and loved by many parents, Sarah Morrison was honored and awarded on a number of occasions for her service to the education of children. It was her greatest joy to see her former students grown and contributing to their community. During her teaching career in Knoxville, Sarah Morrison later met and married former spouse James Morrison.

Sarah accepted Jesus Christ as her Lord and Savior early in life and she devoted her years to living a life pleasing to God. Throughout her 90 years of life, Sarah was a member of various churches , and she was a well respected pianist and organist in the church community. She used her remarkable talent to glorify God and to uplift the souls of others. In her later years, Sarah enjoyed her time visiting, singing and playing hymns at the local nursing homes (Asbury Acres, Maryville Heath Care and 5th Avenue) for the residents as a part of her music ministry. For many years she taught a generation of young people to play the piano and appreciate music, both sacred and secular. She was proud of the accomplishments of her piano students as they began to take on music ministry roles throughout both Knoxville and Blount C ounty.

Sarah Morrison was always a devoted sister and primary caregiver to her beloved sister Blanche Ayner. Many can attest to the genuine love and care that she provided her sister during her life. Sarah and Blanche had a special bond as a result of this love sharing birthday pizzas and Sonic hamburgers on Fridays. Sarah Morrison also derived joy from home decorating for the holidays and the flowers that grew in her yard. She knew each flower by name, and she took daily care of each one. Her quiet yet nurturing demeanor was a common draw to family and friends. Her motto was “if you are going to do it, do it right” as she sought do a good job. Her beloved grandson often remarked that “Grandma Sarah’s “ response to matters regardless of the situation was likely an endearing one-word response “well…” in her matter-of-fact voice. Sarah Morrison wanted to live a life for Christ and in her own words to be known as one who was “a loving and caring person who was always willing to lend a helping hand”.

Sarah was preceded by her loving parents, George Ayner Sr. And Willette Schuford Ayner, George Ayner Jr. (brother), Pearl E. White (sister) and Blanche E. Ayner (sister).

Sarah Morrison departed this life and is survived by her dear daughter, Pamela Thompson Washington of Hamden, CT, one remarkable grandson Avery Langston Washington (West Haven, CT), devoted Goddaughter, Faye Brewer (Edward) ( Maryville,TN ,) caring niece, Ann Burke, one great niece and great nephew, Jennifer Ann Bolen and Daniel Burke, a wonderful great, great nephew Nicolas Bolen along with a host of nieces, nephews, and extended family members.

Among her most cherished loved ones are family friends and longtime neighbors: Albert Alexander, Margaret McBath, and Joanne and Lynwood Smith.

Acknowledgements

The family of Sarah Morrison would like to express our humble and greatest appreciation for everyone who have touched our lives. We graciously thank each one for your words of comfort, prayers and thoughtful expressions of love and kindness during our time of bereavement.

Special appreciation to Helping Hands Caregivers, Keisha Reid, Blount Senior Care, Summit View in Farragut, Smokey Mountain Hospice Services. May God continue to bless and keep each of you in his holy arms today and always.

Family will receive friends from 10:30 a.m. – 11:00 a.m. with funeral to follow, at Foothills Funeral Home on December 13, 2021. Interment to follow service at Sherwood Gardens. The body may be viewed from 12:00 p.m. – 2:00 p.m. on Sunday December 12, 2021, at Foothills Funeral Home. www.foothillsfh.com