Member Dedication

The family of the late Mary Lou Roby, affectionately called “Sarah”, appreciates the opportunity to dedicate Jones Chapel African Methodist Episcopal Church internet web page in her memory.

Her works spoke loudly her unwavering faith she had in her Lord and Savior Jesus Christ's adhering to his challenge to  “Let your light so shine before men, that they may see your good works, and glorify your Father which is in heaven”. Matthew 5:16 King James Version (KJV)

Mrs. Roby faithfully served as a servant of God and Christ through the auspices of Jones Chapel AME Church for over 48 years. During her time as a member of Jones Chapel AME Church, she was a dutiful witness for the Lord through several boards including class leader, junior choir adviser in earlier years, trustee board, president of the Senior Choir (renamed Sanctuary Choir) and Sunday school.

Her support for the church was unwavering. She took special delight in being the top fund raiser on many occasions raising money for Jones Chapel AME's special days and boards that either she was a part or leader of.  Her friendly competitive spirit was infectious contributing to an atmosphere of fun for all participants.

As Mrs. Roby was a fantastic and superb cook, her signature egg custard pies she often prepared for functions such as the Jones Chapel Annual Calendar Tea were the talk of the town.

As a laundry worker for twenty years at a local dry cleaning establishment in Fairfield, Al, Mrs. Roby was responsible for initiating Local 218 Linen Service and Industrial Laundry Employees Union resulting in significant pay increases for hundreds of laundry workers across the state of Alabama.

In her neighborhood, Mrs. Roby was a catalyst for efforts encouraging fellowship and giving to those persons and families in need of sympathy, food, bill paying, clothes, and just a listening ear.

As the wife of the late Ferris Roby, Sr., mother of five children, fourteen grandchildren and twenty two great grand children, the couple also found room in their hearts and homes to include three surrogate children providing an atmosphere of spiritual tenacity, urging her family to stay close to the Lord, pray unceasingly, and in all things give honor and glory to our Lord, Savior and Jesus Christ. Her grandchildren often rejoice and relish the memories of the many tasty meals she prepared at her home for her large family and friends on Sunday afternoons following church service.

Mrs. Roby was a praying woman.  Her counsel was cherished by many.  Although her physical being faded through illness, her unwavering devotion to her Lord was never diminished.

Mrs. Roby faced the end of her earthly journey on April 29, 1999 triumphantly leaving many to carry on her example.

Her family is thankful to God as her rich and strong legacy continues to live through the numerous lives she touched.