Sara Joyce McGovern

Sara Joyce Freeman McGovern, age 86, passed away July 16, 2020. Born in Sunflower, MS on January 3, 1934, Sara lived most of her adult life in Cleveland, MS. She moved to Memphis, TN to enjoy her retirement years. Sara was an active and longtime member of Immanuel Baptist Church in Cleveland prior to moving to Memphis. For the past twenty-two years, she served in many capacities at Germantown Baptist Church especially enjoying The Hallelujah Chorus, the Billy Lamb Sunday School Class and Merrymakers. Known for her undeniably bright outlook on life, deep faith and joyful spirit, Sara's energetic and happy personality will be missed. Sara had a passion for serving others, tending to her flowers, bird watching and appreciating the beauty of nature. She taught all how to "stop and smell the roses." However, Sara's favorite pastime was spending quality time with her many family members and dear friends. Sara was preceded in death by her parents, Mr. and Mrs. George Marion Freeman (Agnes), her husband Herman Pasley McGovern and daughter Vickie Lynn McGovern. She is survived by her children Becky Denton (John), Neel McGovern (Tracy), Terry McGovern, Kathleen Carter (Steve), and Elizabeth Malone (Joe); grandchildren (Amy Maggio, Denise Collins, Mira Kimball, Laura Polak, Brandon McGovern, Kyle McGovern, Meredith Townsend, Mary Ann Malone, Jack Malone and Kate Malone); 11 great grandchildren; siblings Jean McBride, Kathleen Collins and David Freeman (Judy). Sara was blessed with many wonderful nieces and nephews who adored their "Aunt Sara." In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations in Sara's memory to St. Jude Children's Research Hospital, 501 St. Jude Place, Memphis, TN 38105 or stjude.org. This special organization was always dear to Sara's heart. Please also consider performing an act of kindness for someone in need to honor Sara's memory.
A memorial service, officiated by Reverend John Longworth, will be held on Sunday, July 19, 2020 @ 1:00 p.m. at Germantown Baptist Church, 9450 Poplar Avenue, Germantown, TN. The church and the family respectfully request the use of face masks as well as honoring social distancing guidelines. In honor of Sara's love for life, it is requested that all in attendance wear vibrant and joyful colors of celebration. A graveside service, officiated by Dr. Jon Daniels, will be held on Monday, July 20, 2020 @ 10:00 a.m. @ North Cleveland Cemetery, Cleveland, MS. Arrangements are being handled by Ray Funeral Home in Cleveland. In light of the concern of the spread of COVID-19, a videotaped presentation of the memorial service will be available for viewing at a later date.

Graveside Service Honoring Mrs. McGovern

10:00 am - 10:45 am Monday, July 20, 2020
North Cleveland Cemetery 1325 North Bayou Rd Cleveland, Mississippi, United States

Graveside Service Honoring Mrs. McGovern

10:00 am - 10:45 am Monday, July 20, 2020
North Cleveland Cemetery North Bolivar Cleveland, Mississippi, United States