Sarah Frances Carruthers

Sarah Frances Carruthers, affectionately known as "Sarah" and fondly referred to as "Tuta" by her family and "Lil’ Bit" by her friends, was a beacon of light born on the 28th of October, 1935, in the warm embrace of Charlotte, NC. The Lord called her home on the serene morning of September 14, 2024, in the very city that had been graced with her presence for nearly nine decades. Sarah's journey on this earth concluded peacefully as she departed from us due to natural causes.

The eldest child of the late Sarah Jane Gill and Benjamin Franklin Davis, Sarah transitioned to glory surrounded by the love and memories of a life well-lived. She was preceded in passing by her two brothers, Benjamin Franklin Davis Jr. and Alfonzo Davis. The legacy of her love and nurturing spirit lives on through her beloved sister Barbara Crawford, her adoring children Marilyn Cathey, Myron Davis, and Donnell Carruthers. Her lineage continues to flourish with her three grandchildren Nikki, Crystal, and Christopher; her eight great-grandchildren Nykole, Brandon, Lenzi, Landyn, Nyla, Chris, Noah, and Heaven; and her two great-great-grandchildren Dexter and Sunni. Alongside these cherished family members, a host of extended relatives and friends hold dear the memory of Sarah's kindness and warmth.

Sarah's formative years were spent within the halls of Second Ward High, where she garnered the education that would serve as the foundation for her lifelong commitment to community and service. Her unwavering faith was exemplified through more than 60 years of devoted membership at Pleasant Hill Baptist Church. She was a pillar of the church, actively engaged in the Baptist Training Union, the General & National Baptist Congress, and the Mt. Peace Ushers Union. Her leadership shone brightly as she served as President of PHMBC Ushers for over 30 years, and as Secretary of the Sunday School at PHBC until her health waned. Her hands worked tirelessly with the Missionary Auxiliary, and she played a vital role in the Ushers Union, not to mention her dedicated service as Program Chairperson for District 3 and as Co-Chair Person on the social committee of the Mecklenburg General Assoc./United Baptist Association. Sarah's love for her church and community was evident in every act of service, every ushered service, and every moment of support she provided to others.

Sarah's legacy, one of "Giving Back & Impacting Others," was a testament to her character. She was a shining star, a very special person, whose generosity knew no bounds. She was the epitome of selflessness, always looking out for her neighbors and friends, offering help and sustenance without hesitation. As her neighborhood evolved, she embraced change with open arms, making it her mission to welcome new neighbors of all backgrounds, fostering a sense of community and togetherness.

Her love of nature was manifest in the azalea bushes she planted around her trees, the meticulously trimmed green monkey grass lining her driveway and walkway, and the pots of houseplants she nurtured from cuttings. Her green thumb brought beauty to her home and joy to her heart. Sarah's generosity extended beyond her garden. For years she prepared feasts for the Men’s Homeless Shelter, her kitchen brimming with commercial-sized pots and pans filled with the heartiest of meals and the sweetest of desserts. Her visits to the shelter were occasions of celebration, her presence eagerly awaited by many.

Sarah Carruthers' impact on our community, her family, her friends, and her beloved Pleasant Hill Baptist Church is immeasurable. Her spirit, characterized by her selfless nature, will continue to inspire and guide us. As we bid farewell to this extraordinary woman, we are comforted by the knowledge that her love and lessons will continue to resonate within the hearts of all who were blessed to know her. Truly, Sarah Carruthers will be profoundly missed, but her light will forever shine in the legacy she leaves behind