Preserving the Past, Securing the Future

In the heart of Alexandria, a woman named Sara Simmonds left an indelible mark on First United Methodist Church and its community. She was active in everything – and passionate about serving others.

Sara's impact extended far beyond the church pews, as she was a leader serving several local organizations, such as the Junior League of Alexandria and Rotary Club. She was instrumental in bringing chapels to area prisons with the Louisiana Chapel Foundation; founded the Apple Pie Brigade, ensuring warm hospitality for military troops passing through Alexandria; and was responsible for the significant preservation and restoration of Kent House, one of the oldest Creole plantation homes in the Alexandria area. At age 98, she went skydiving to raise scholarship funds for cadets in the Louisiana National Guard's Youth Challenge Program.

Sara's tenacity and commitment were woven into many facets of the church, from the carefully tended air conditioning vents to the sturdy brick wall outside.

Her devotion was not confined to her lifetime; she created a lasting legacy. In her will, Sara bequeathed a generous gift to establish an endowment at the Foundation to support her church in perpetuity.

Although Sara passed in 2019 (at the age of 101), her story serves as an inspiration, urging others to consider leaving a legacy for their church or favorite ministries. Individuals can emulate Sara's spirit of generosity by doing the same, ensuring that they continue to support the missions they hold dear, even after they're gone.

Nancy Owens, a lifelong friend of Sara, reminisced about her shared journey with Sara within the walls of First United Methodist Church of Alexandria.

For Nancy, Sara was more than a fellow congregant; she was a beacon of generosity, a giver in every sense. "She just was a giver – whether her time or her talent or her treasure, Sara gave her all to whatever she did," Nancy fondly recalls.

Sara's unwavering spirit of giving lives on through the legacies she created and the endowment that will support First UMC of Alexandria, forever.

Find more information on endowments on our website at www.umfgiving.org.