DR. SARA ANNE CANNON BEALING
7/27/1931 - 4/30/2024

Her Story:

A Life Reflection Sara Anne Bealing, born July 27, 1931, in Atlanta, Georgia, to Amanda (Swanson) Cannon and George Washington Cannon, was a beacon of light in the lives of many. Born into a family of seven siblings, Sara's childhood nickname, "peewee," reflected her vibrant and determined spirit from an early age. She embarked on her journey of excellence through education, attending Fulton County schools and graduating from Washington High School in 1949. Her quest for knowledge led her to Fort Valley State University (FVSU), where she earned a bachelor's degree in Education in 1952. It was during her time at FVSU that she found her sisterhood in the Alpha Kappa Alpha sorority, a bond she cherished and maintained as a Diamond status member. Sara's dedication to education propelled her to pursue a Master's degree from Tennessee State University in 1954, followed by a Doctorate in Education from Florida State University, marking the culmination of her academic pursuits. In the early 1950s, Sara married Mr. Lewis Lowe, welcoming her beloved son, Earl Stanley Lowe, in 1955. For the next 15 years, she dedicated herself to teaching fifth grade at East View Elementary, all while actively engaging in community initiatives such as leading annual candy sales for Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, INC. and Fostering Artistic Expression through a local dance troupe. Her passion for empowering girls led her to become the regional fine arts director leaving an indelible mark on the community. In the early 1970s, Sara expanded her impact as an instructor at Albany State University, where she continued her academic pursuits while advocating for educational opportunities. Eventually relocating to College Park, Georgia, in the late 1970s, Sara's path crossed once again with her childhood friend and beloved "bubba," Mr. John Bealing, whom she married in 1979. Together, they embarked on many adventures as they traveled between Atlanta and Albany maintaining two residences and family connections. Sara's dedication to shaping future educators remained unwavering throughout her tenure at various historically Black colleges and universities (HBCUs), including Morris Brown College and Clark Atlanta University. Even after her official retirement in 2002, Sara continued to impart knowledge, particularly in support of individuals with disabilities, embodying her commitment to lifelong learning and service. Beyond her professional endeavors, Sara found joy in worshiping, traveling, family reunions, and celebrating milestones with her grandchildren. As a child, she attended Friendship Baptist Church in College Park and eventually converted to Catholicism and most recently worshiped at St. Mary Magdalene in Newnan.

Sara had an intense love for shopping that was not just a personal indulgence but also a means of generosity, as she frequently donated to families in need, and clothing banks to empower others to dress for success. As a diamond and lifetime member of Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority (Phi Pi Omega) and a platinum, alumna member of the Dogwood City Chapter of the Links, Incorporated her service to the community extended well beyond the scope of clothing drives. As a charter member of the Albany (Ga) Chapter of the Links, Incorporated, Sara chaired the Arts and Services to Youth Committees. She led voter registration drives and women’s health initiatives. As we reflect on Sara's life, she will be remembered as a trailblazer, a mentor, and a loving presence in the lives of all who knew her. May her legacy of resilience, generosity, and love continue to inspire generations to come. We know in writing this we missed talking about Sara at some point where she touched your life. We ask that Sara be remembered for the exemplary life that she led, her giving spirit and the love she shared with all her family and friends She is preceded in death by her parents, Amanda and George Cannon, her siblings George and Ralph Cannon, Mattie Dollar, Kathryn Andrews, and Hazel Jackson.

She is survived by her loving husband “Bubba” John R. Bealing Sr., her three children Earl Lowe (Janet Blount), John R. Bealing Jr.(Shelia), and Michele Sayles Harris (Lonnie), her sisters Susie Tate and Hilda Walker, her nine grandchildren Johnathan Lowe, Benjamin Lowe, John R. Bealing III, Cinnamon Bealing, Crystal Bealing, Ciara Bealing, Jeffrey Sayles Jr. (Amber), Camille Sayles, Jada Sayles, and 2 great-grandchildren Monte and Milan, and her goddaughter Shirley Reese. She also leaves a host of nieces, nephews, and friends to cherish her memory.

Reposing and Public Visitation: Wednesday, May 8, 2024, 12:00Noon - 5:29PM, Gus Thornhill's Funeral Home Chapel (1315 Gus Thornhill Jr. Drive, East Point, Georgia 30344)

Wake and Family Hour: Wednesday, May 8, 2024, - 5:30

PM - 7:30 PM, Gus Thornhill's Funeral Home Chapel (1315 Gus Thornhill Jr. Drive, East Point, Georgia 30344)

Celebration of Life Services: Thursday, May 9, 2024, 12:00 Noon, l World Changers Church International (2500 Burdett Road, Atlanta, Georgia 30349)

Interment: Thursday, May 9, 2024, (Immediately following Celebration Of Life Services), Carver Memorial Gardens (350 Upper Riverdale Road, Jonesboro, Georgia 30236)