Frances Elizabeth Sessoms

“For God so loved the world that he gave his one and only Son, that whoever believes in him shall not perish but have eternal life.” - John 3:16

Evangelist Frances E. Sessoms, age 82, of Hertford, North Carolina, passed away peacefully on April 29, 2024, after a life richly lived. She is our Christmas baby, born on Christmas Day in 1941, a fitting start for a woman who would embody the spirit of giving throughout her life. After school she gave her time to helping others as a healthcare worker and daycare provider.

FAITH

A steadfast and devout Protestant Christian, Evangelist Frances Sessoms gave her life to Christ at an early age. She dedicated her life to her faith and her church. In the early years, she attended the Church of God of Prophecy under the leadership of Reverend Oliver Patterson. Evangelist Sessoms was a strong spiritual and

prayer warrior. She was committed to spreading the word of God through her ministry. She would regularly open her home and hold Bible study with the neighborhood children, with the lure of snacks. Her commitment to service was evident in everything she did. She was always there to lend a helping hand and was a beacon of hope to those around her.

FAMILY

A devoted mother, Evangelist Frances Sessoms believed in family. She married Luther V. Sessoms. She was a caretaker for her own six children, the children of her siblings, and those of her neighbors. She adopted her baby sister’s daughter after her untimely death and raised her as her own. Her home was a safe haven for all who visited. She had a big heart full of love and showed love righteously.

COMMUNITY

Evangelist Sessoms was a respected member of every community she lived in, she proudly and effortlessly assumed the role of a mother figure for all she met. She was known as the “neighborhood beautician”. During her time in the nursing home, she lifted the spirits of her resident mates and the staff with her witty banter, humor, smile and laugh. Evangelist Sessoms loved to sing and dance for the Lord. You would hear her singing while cleaning and cooking, belting out a strong alto rendition of “Blessed Assurance.”

IN MOURNING

Evangelist Sessoms leaves behind her seven children and in-laws: Jean L. Young (Sam), Hazel C. Stevenson (Edward), Luther V. Sessoms, Jr. (Mia), Donald R. Sessoms (Ruth), Timothy L. Sessoms, Elmo T. Sessoms, and Lakeisha D. Lashley (Ifter). She was a cherished grandmother to ten grandchildren, who will carry forward her legacy of kindness and strength. She is also survived by her loving siblings, Cornelia Maddrey and Walter Maddrey (Louise), as well as many in-laws, cousins, nieces, nephews, other relatives and friends, all of whom felt her immense warmth and generosity. Evangelist Sessoms’ life was a gift to all who knew her, and her spirit will continue to inspire and guide us. She will be dearly missed, yet forever remembered as a strong God-led matriarch of her family and community.