Deaconess Sarah Frances Hill Cheatham "Babysis"

Deaconess Sarah Frances Hill Cheatham, affectionately known by many as “Babysis”, was born June 28, 1933 (later recorded as July 2nd) to the late Thomas Emmanuel Hill and Martha Mason Hill. She was born in Chesterfield County, Virginia, the third of seven children, namely: Doris H. Stephenson (dec.), Charlotte H. Johnson (dec.), Hilda H. Hatchette (dec.), Delores H. Gilliam (dec.), Shirley H. Baugh, and Alberta H. Stith. She departed this life on October 12, 2026.

Sarah began her formal education at Union Grove Elementary School. Later she attended Daniel Webster Davis High School and then Carver High School where she received her high school diploma. Following high school, Sarah continued her studies at Virginia State College, now Virginia State University. At Virginia State College, she first earned her bachelor’s degree in library science and later obtained a master’s degree in educational media.

She began her career as a librarian in Charles City County, Virginia. In 1962, she returned to Chesterfield and was employed by the county as the first African American Elementary School Librarian. She remained employed with Chesterfield County until her retirement as a Media Specialist in 1995.

Sarah Cheatham was a devout member of Union Grove Baptist Church where she actively served her church community for over 70 years. As a member of the church, she served in the Deaconess Ministry, Finance Ministry, Pulpit Hospitality Committee, and Missionary Ministry. She taught Sunday school, sponsored the Baptist Youth Fellowship and Golden Circle, chaired the Personnel Committee, and served as treasurer of the Golden Circle.

She was also active in the broader community and was a member of the Alease Cooley Memorial Tent #718 where she served as treasurer for 32 years. She was member and treasurer of the Imperial Order of King David Lodge and financial secretary of Union Grove Faith, Hope & Charity Lodge. Additional memberships included: the American Women’s Business Association, the Retired Teachers Association of Chesterfield, Virginia State University’s Alumni Association, Carver Reunion Group, Carver Alumni and Friends Association and the Executive Board of the Martha Mason Hill Memorial Foundation.

Sarah Frances Hill was married to the late Clifton Leroy Cheatham, Sr. and together they had three children, Gilda Harris, Clifton Cheatham, Jr., and Gina Britt. Her progeny included sixteen grandchildren: Stephanie (dec.), Seth, Delaiah (Josh), Damaris (dec.), Jessica, Benjamin, Stephen (dec.), Matthew (dec.), Gabriel, Adam, Amarisa, Roxy, Ella, Rio, Darrell Jr., Brandon and three great-grandchildren Kaliyah, Aris and Taj.

Deaconess Sarah Cheatham was granted the gift of over 90 years of life before the Lord called her home. She did not waste the time she was given but spent much of her time and talents in the service of others. She was a faithful servant of God and a beloved matriarch. Her life and legacy will not soon be forgotten.

Services will be held 12 Noon, Friday, October 23, 2026, at Union Grove Baptist Church, 19111 Church Road, South Chesterfield, VA, the Rev. Dr. William E. Johnson III, Pastor and eulogist. The interment to follow at Dinwiddie Memorial Park.

J. M. Wilkerson Funeral Establishment, Inc., 102 South Avenue, Petersburg, VA, (804) 732-8911, www.jmwilkersonsince1874.com. Watch the funeral services live online on our J. M. Wilkerson Funeral Establishment, Inc. Facebook page or click here to view: https://vimeo.com/event/6289067?fl=so&fe=fs