Official Notice of Episcopal Transition

“Precious in the sight of the Lord is the death of His Saints.” - Psalm 116:15

This loving family is hurting beyond belief, but they are assured that it is well. Superintendent Arletha Sermons, 93 of Hahira, GA.,

God, who is omnipotent and omniscient, has summoned His Servant to eternal rest on Tuesday, May 31, 2022. Upon his passing, Superintendent Sermons faithfully loved and provided for his family, cared for his community, and served the body of Christ. His wisdom and profound preaching made him an effective minister of the Gospel of Jesus Christ.

Superintendent Sermons was born to the late Elder Johnnie B. Sermons, Sr. and Mrs. Eliza Jane Lucas-Sermons on April 15, 1929. He grew up in rural Hahira, Georgia, the youngest of twelve brothers and sisters. He was educated in the Lowndes County Public School System and graduated as the Valedictorian of his high school class.

Superintendent Sermons was a spiritual leader for nearly 70 years. He was a farmer by trade, and an instrumental member of the Lowndes County Ham and Egg Show. He was “called to preach” by God in 1952. The genesis of his ministry began at his home church, Rocky Hill Church of God in Christ, Mineola Georgia, where he was a member and later served as the Assistant Pastor. In 1972, he was appointed as the Pastor of St. Paul Church of God in Christ in Cecil, Georgia where he served faithfully for 48 years. He motivated, inspired, and provided spiritual guidance to many in the Lowndes and Cook County communities. He was an influential agent of change for the most-High God in all that he did.

In 1949, Superintendent Sermons married the late Missionary Gladys Sermons. They lived as husband and wife in holy matrimony for 72 years. They were the proud parents of seven children, four boys and three girls. Superintendent Sermons was preceded in death by his parents, his loving wife, Missionary Gladys Sermons (2021); two beloved grandsons: Reginald L. Stacks and Eddie L. Sermons; and all of his siblings. Superintendent Sermons leaves to cherish and continue his legacy: four sons: Dr. Curtis L. (Garnette) Sermons of Valdosta, GA, Al (Linda) Sermons, M.D. of Sandy Springs, GA, Johnny B. (Creacy) Sermons and Stephen J. (Linda) Sermons both of Hahira, GA; three daughters: Brenda A (Charles) Stacks of Aurora CO, and Dr. Beverly M. Sermons and Chrysanthia Y. Sermons, both of Statesboro, GA; a special brotherin-law that he raised as a son, Bruce L. (Rhonda) Maxwell of Valdosta, GA; 14 grandchildren: Demetria Y. Freeman, Robert “Terry” (Cassandra) Stacks of Denver, CO, Tammie (Broderick) Morgan of Brentwood, CA, Emma “Lisa” (Nicholas) Griglen of Valdosta, GA, Royce K. (Tiffany) Thomas of Valdosta, GA, Alisia L. Milfort of Atlanta, GA, Jason D. Sermons of Savannah, GA, Shamya S. (Clay) Martin of Duluth, GA, Olivia J. (Brandon) Hill of Nashville, TN, Cory A. Clemons of Charlotte, NC, Amanda D. (Michael) Laster of Orlando, FL, Bryan L. (Brittny) Sermons of Hahira, GA, Benjamin D. Sermons, Esq. of Carmel, CA, and Stephanie R. Sermons of Austell, GA; 31 great-grandchildren; six great-great grandchildren. and a host of nieces, nephews, cousins, other relatives, and friends

“Blessed be the God, even the father of our Lord Jesus Christ, the Father of mercies, and the God of all comfort.” - 2 Corinthians 1:3

Homegoing Services will be celebrated on Saturday, June 11, 2022, at 1:00 PM from UNION CATHEDRAL - 1050 East Hill Avenue | Valdosta, Georgia. Bishop Wade S. McCrae, Pastor | Superintendent James C. Futch, Officiant | Superintendent Donald Battles, Presiding. Interment will follow in Rocky Hill COGIC Cemetery in Mineola, Georgia (Private Services at a Later Date).

Acknowledgements: The Sermons family, would like to express our thanks to the wonderful home health caregivers that attended and cared for “Dad Sermons” prior to his passing: Darlene Bellamy, Tannis Scott, LaKesha Walton, and Sharee Williams.

We extend our deepest gratitude and appreciation for the many meals, cards, phone calls, visits, and sincere prayers over the years. Your kindness and graciousness have made this transition more endurable and will never be forgotten!

Final Care and Compassionate Services are being provided to this loving family, by Harrington Funeral Home, Inc.

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