Mary Hull Simpson's Obituary
Sarah Ann Alexander Varner died peacefully Friday, June 11th at her home at Trezevant Assisted Living in Memphis. Born on Armistice Day, November 11, 1920, in Shaw, Mississippi, to Veo and Nell Alexander, she grew up in Pine Bluff, Arkansas. Voted in high school “Most Beautiful” and “Most Popular”, she moved to Memphis shortly after graduation and worked at the National Bank of Commerce. She married Claude Ferrell, Sr. M.D. in 1940. Sarah Ann, as she was known, was an energetic participant in Memphis life and her church, Idlewild Presbyterian. As president of the Women of the Church she helped start the child care program at Idlewild. She was a member of LeBonheur when the children’s hospital was built. Her interests also included active membership in the Junior League, the Little Garden Club, Les Passes, Noel Club and her sewing circle. Sarah Ann and her husband spent many happy days following the fortunes of the Ole Miss football team, where Ferrell was the team doctor for 27 years. During the late 40’s, 50’s and 60’s they traveled to all the football games and were synonymous with Ole Miss in Memphis during that time. She had an energy and beauty that could light up a room. She never met a stranger and personally saw to it that everyone was welcomed. Sarah Ann was truly a Southern Belle. Her sons remember her unfailing encouragement, positivity and the tolerance that she taught through her actions. She had a keen artistic sense which showed in flower arranging and won several amateur national awards. Sarah Ann also devoted her energies to her four sons; C. Ferrell Varner, Jr., MD, of Memphis, Albert A. Varner, MD, of San Rafael, California, James C. Varner, MD, of Memphis and Samuel H. Varner of Lexington, Kentucky. She is survived by her sons, nine grandchildren and four great-grandchildren. Visitation will be from 5:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m., Wednesday, June 16, 2010 at Memorial Park Funeral Home. A Memorial Service will be held at 11:00 a.m., Thursday, June 17, at Idlewild Presbyterian Church. Any memorial gifts can be made to Idlewild Presbyterian Church.
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