Barbara Jean Sermon

Barbara Jean Sermon, 81, of Lake Charles, LA, died at 7:30 AM on Monday, July 30, 2018 in her residence.

Sister Sermon was born July 23, 1937 in Lake Charles, LA and worked for several years at St. Patrick Hospital as a renal technician. She had a great love for the Lord and her husband, Rev. Elton Gray Sermon. They started churches in Nacogdoches, TX, Universal City, TX and Rock Springs, WY. All of her life her purpose was to do good, help others and reach her home in Heaven. Today she is rejoicing with her beloved husband, Rev. Elton Gray Sermon; parents, Galvin and Louvenia Heard; and her nine brothers and sisters.

Once returning to Lake Charles about fifteen years ago, she was an active member of Livingway Pentecostal Church. Preacher’s wife, caregiver to her family and friends, mentor to so many; “Meem” was so much to so many. A shining light and a beam of hope in dark circumstances. The family’s matriarch when seeking wisdom, advice, encouragement, and strength. Words will never describe what she meant to her family and everyone who knew her. There is much grieving here on earth, but oh what a happy meeting in Heaven.

She made it…enjoy your reward, “Meem”. If ever there was anyone who deserved it, it is you.

Sister Sermon is survived by her son, Michael Gilliam and wife Mercedes of Lake Charles; step-sons, Rev. Edward Sermon and wife Regina of Billings, MT, Eric Sermon and wife Jaime of Lake Charles, and Matthew Sermon and wife Krista of Annapolis, MD; eight grandchildren, Jared Gilliam (Katrina), Ginger Gilliam, Aaron Sermon (Hannah), Jordan Sermon (Haley), Seth Sermon, Greyson Sermon, Temple Sermon and Shiloh Sermon; and great-grandchildren, Laynie, Sawyer, and Lennon Gilliam, and Aryce Sermon.

Her funeral service will be at 1:00 PM on Thursday, August 2, 2018 at Livingway Pentecostal Church. Bishop Charles Nugent and Rev. Glenn Massey will officiate. Burial will follow in Prien Memorial Park, under the direction of Johnson Funeral Home. Visitation will be at the church on Thursday from 10:00 AM until the start of the service.