ADA MAE CHAMPION JACKSON

1902-1979

Biography

I am Ada Mae Champion Jackson also known by my family as  “Darling”& “Big Mama.” I was born on December 30,1902 in Americus GA., Sumter County. I am the 3rd oldest child of Doc and Henrietta Champion. Americus is where I received my formal education. When I became of age I fell in love and married  Frank Woodson who lived in Smithville, Ga., a small town relatively close to Americus.  The Lord blessed Frank and I, with two beautiful girls, Margaree Woodson Lewis and Henrietta Woodson Sharpe. 

After years of marriage and irreconcilable differences Frank and I departed ways. I decided to relocate and me and the girls  moved to Savannah, Georgia in hopes of starting a new life.  After moving to Savannah and after coming to grips with a fresh start, I met a fellow by the name of Bonnie Jackson.  Bonnie and I courted each other and then married.  As time passed, I started sewing for people and eventually started my own sewing business from my home. I made wedding dresses, gowns, suits,  cheerleaders outfits and did custom alterations. I also kept children in my home for my neighbors and loved ones and my family.  

As I reflect back, I remember the wedding dress I made for my oldest grandson’s wife named Pam. Yes, it was originally designed and hand crafted by me. I also had a divine love for music. I taught piano and I played for churches in the area.  I was sold out to the Lord and wanted to do his will. Therefore,  in 1960 I became an Ordained Minister and Co-Pastored at Fairmont Baptist Church where I served faithfully for many many years. During this time women were not allowed in the pulpit but accepting the calling, I continued to minister unto the Lord every chance I got.  God continued to bless me and added years to my life.  

The Lord allowed me to live and see 15 grandchildren of which I helped raise. “I will lift up mine eyes to the hills which cometh my help, my help cometh from the Lord.” Through many dangers  toils and snares I have already come. ‘Tis Grace that brought me safe this far and Grace will lead me on. Family I love you and Stay Strong because a family that Prays together Stays together.

A Reflection

My name is Bonnie Sharpe, I am the 7th child of the late John and Henrietta Sharpe.  I have fond memories of my grandmother. As we were growing up with 10 brothers and sisters  we visited Big Mama on Anderson Street a lot but especially  to have dinner on Thanksgiving, Christmas and New Years. We always looked forward to having fruit cake that grandmama fixed every year.  Holidays were always special.  She would have breakfast ready with the aroma of coffee 6’oclok  in the morning,  She made sure we had grits, eggs, bacon and toast.  Thick grits that sayed in one place. Grandma would never give us coffee because she always said, ”coffee turns you black.” I didn’t listen too much to that.  She always had a lot of kids around because she used to babysit the neighbors kids.   I enjoyed going to church with her, she played the piano.  She had a big personality, she was a people person and people enjoyed talking to her.   None of our  brothers and sisters were able to fool Big Mama.  She was smart and on top of things and I enjoyed having her by my side.  When she preached, I would stop and watch her because she was a very good speaker.  She was ordained during the time when black women were not able to  be in the pulpit but she stood strong and she made it through.  I am very proud to say that I am the grandson of  Ada Mae Champion Jackson.

Reflections by George F. Sharpe Sr.

My name is George F. SHarpe  and I am the son of John and Henrietta Sharpe and the grandson of Ada Mae Champion Jackson.  I remember my grandmother would always sing  the old hymn of Amazing Grace.  (George sings the song).