Sophia Walden
FRANKLIN—Sophia Mae James Walden, 80, peacefully and quietly departed her earthly life, at her residence, on May 10, 2010, to be with the Lord.
She was the daughter of the late Peter and Ella Mae James. Sophia was born on May 15, 1930, in Hobgood, N.C. At an early age, she accepted Christ and joined the Ahoskie Baptist Church in Ahoskie, N.C. Some years later, she joined Mt. Sinai Baptist Church, Suffolk. She was active in the senior choir, missionary circle, and willing workers.
Sophia was also the First Lady of Allen Grove Baptist Church, Franklin. For many years, she was a diligent worker in the Southeastern Missionary Baptist Church Union.
She attended Paul D. Camp Community College, Franklin, where she studied early childhood education. Sophia graduated with her husband from Virginia Union School of Theology, Richmond.
She was employed nearly 22 years with the Franklin City Public Schools as a teacher assistant.
She worked with all grade levels, elementary through high school, during the course of her career. She also taught special needs students. Sophia loved her students, and her students loved her.
She is survived by her devoted and adoring husband, of 61 years, Wilbur Lindbergh Walden; her children, Petrina Revell (Andrew), Ronald Walden, Sr. (Colleen), Joan Copeland, Perry Walden, Howard Walden (Shirley), and Sharon Walden; six grandchildren; 10 great-grandchildren; and her loving nephews, nieces, relatives and friends. The homegoing service will be held Friday, May 14, at 1
p.m., at Mt. Sinai Baptist Church, Suffolk. Dr. Joseph H. Goode will be officiating.
Elvin Vaughan Funeral Home is in charge of the service.