Obituaries

Sewell Mortuary in Grantville respectfully announces the passing of Katie Wimbush on August 27th, 2018.

Funeral service is 9/1/18 at 1:00 pm from New Hope AME Church in Haralson GA.

Visitation: 8/31/18 from 5:30-7:30 pm at Sewell Mortuary in Grantville GA.

INTERMENT: Old White Oak Grove Cemetery

Her Beginning Mother Katie Sue Dennis Wimbish was the only child born to Savannah and George Lucius Dennis on June 18, 1917. She had a half-brother named Johnny C. Dennis whom she loved very much as he was such an intriguing character. Mother Katie lost both her parents early in her life. Around the age of 8 or 9, she lost her mother and her father died when she was around the age of 17 or 18. After her father’s passing, she was reared by her grandparents, Mary and William Dennis. William was a farmer and Mary a school teacher and mid-wife. A lifelong bond was formed between her and her grandparents. The entire family called William, Papa and Mary was Mother. Mother and Papa’s children moved away to Chicago and Atlanta but not Katie. She remained always within walking distance to Mother. They gave each other unconditional love, which Mother Katie learned to share with the world.

Her Education: In her early years, Mother Katie attended E. A. Ware Elementary School and Booker T. Washington High School both in Atlanta, GA. She was such a good student, she became a part of the farm out program. This is where students were sent to rural school systems to help out when a teacher had to take a leave. Mother Katie was sent to the Griffin school system, however, due to her father’s passing, she was not able to complete her high school education by a few classes.

Her Union: Upon returning to the family’s home in Haralson, Georgia, she met and married Preston Wimbish, Sr. in 1940. To this union six children were born, Lucius, Jane, Preston, Jr. Jesse, Bernice and Eddie. Eddie died at birth. Most people were amazed at the power of their union. Specifically, when it came to the children there was no difference. If Mother Katie said no there was no need to ask Daddy. If Mother Katie said yes but ask your Daddy, and Daddy said no that was the end of that. They both had to say yes. There was no such thing as trying to pit them against each other. In the Wimbish household there was ONE voice, coming from two strong parents.

Her Life: Mother Katie initially joined Piney Grove Baptist Church. Later her membership was moved to New Hope A.M.E. where she has served for over 85 years. Happy to serve in any capacity needed, she was the leader of Class #4. Mother Katie was committed to the New Hope family until her death. She made sure her church dues were always paid and whatever the church needed, she was willing to do her part, no matter what.

Mother Katie often shared that she has no explanation, it’s just God’s grace and mercy as to why He allowed her to see101 years. As her family often felt God was saying well done my Good and Faithful Servant by blessing her with longevity. You see Mother Katie helped, cared, and loved her grandparents, uncle and great aunt until they died. You NEVER heard her complain OR say she was tired. For she put her hands to the plow and never looked backed.

Coupled with her caring nature, Mother Katie was witty and could make you smile no matter the circumstances or situation. She also understood the power of love. For to her, without a heart of love you could not serve God. Katie was an avid reader, and enjoyed word search puzzles, television church services and Christian music of any kind. She always had a kind word and good advice to lift your spirit. She loved her family and found special joy in her grandchildren. She was truly a Godly Woman and a joy to be around.

Her Family: Although she was proceeded in death by her husband Preston, Sr., daughter Jane E. Williams Murphy and son Eddie, Mother Katie leaves to cherish her wonderful life four children, Lucius Clarence (Geneva), Preston, Jr., Jesse Marcus (Ruby) and Bernice Lavonne. Sixteen (16) grandchildren: Kerry (Tonya), Morris, Valencia (Kevin), Phoebe, Rudolph, Dennis, Preston, III (Lataunya), Sharron, Paul, Delmario, LaShay (Mark), Jarvis, Charles A., Jennifer (Willie), Patrice (DeAngelo) and Eric (deceased). Eighteen (18) great-grandchildren: Andre, Bria, Anthony, Paul Jr., Ayanna, Kelvin, Kia, Myra, K’yanna, Kyler, DeAngelo, Cornelius, Christine, Shaun, Justin, Bryson, Renard and Eriyona. Eleven (11) great-great grandchildren: Tyler, Jonvate, Makayla, Taylor, Cornelius, Jr., Izeriyah, Choice, Phillip, Miracle, Rue, and Lily. Two first cousins Lucille Wilson and Earnestine Pittman (Melvin) and a host of nieces, nephews, other relatives and friends.