Sarah Francis Retherford (Lingo) age 88 of Chipley, transitioned from this earth on April 23, 2022, surrounded by children and family who love her dearly and will miss her much but who share in her joy of being reunited with her sweetheart and husband, Pee Wee (Arvel Hilton) Retherford.
Sarah was born on April 09, 1934, in Cottonwood, Alabama to the late Hiram Bowman and Essie Mae Lingo (Larimore). She is preceded in death by her beloved brother Rex Lingo (Dinah) as well as her dear husband Pee Wee.
Sarah and her husband Pee Wee Retherford grew up near each other and at the age of nine, as he was smitten by her deep brown eyes, declared that he would marry her- a promise he kept, and they enjoyed 66 years of marriage. Sarah had many adventures with Pee Wee which included camping and fishing; cross-country trips with cousins; attending bluegrass festivals; and the challenges of raising five children. Sarah was an accomplished quilter, seamstress, and fisherman. She ensured her children were raised to love and respect the Lord as they all were “churched” from the cradle. Sarah’s legacy is realized in her children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren all of whom she delighted in. Those blessed by her life include her two daughters: Gayle Grantham (Larry) of Chipley, Florida, Rebecca “Sue” Retherford-Dingman (Larry Dingman) of Leeds, Alabama; two sons: Ronnie Retherford (Wanda) of Enterprise, Alabama; David Retherford (Cindy) of Foley, Alabama; her sister Robbie Bazzell (Don) of Panama City, Florida; her brother Wayne Lingo (Ruby) of Cottonwood, Al; seven grandchildren: Jason Grantham (Minda), Crystal Hubbs (Rodney), Adam Grantham (Carmen); Honey Holman (Shane), Luke Retherford (Stephanie), Leah Still (Matt), Sarah Johnson (Zach); fourteen great-grandchildren; numerous cousins, loved ones, and extended family.
Funeral services will be held at 2 P.M. Tuesday, April 26, 2022, at Shiloh Baptist Church in Chipley, Florida with Rev. Tim Brigham officiating. Interment will follow in the church cemetery. Obert Funeral Home of Chipley, Florida directing.
The family will receive friends for visitation from 1-2 P.M. Tuesday, April 26, 2022, at Shiloh Baptist Church.
