of Jonesboro, AR

September 27, 1949 - November 17, 2022

Jelena Mobley Sansing, age 73, passed away on November 17, 2022. Mrs. Sansing was born in Jonesboro, Arkansas on September 27, 1949. A natural beauty, she was crowned Little Miss West Memphis, 1955 (a fun fact she would be displeased to have disclosed). She attended Arkansas State University and moved to Memphis in 1969. Mrs. Sansing devoted her time to family, volunteering in various capacities at her children's school, and service as the hostess for her church. For many years, she happily noted that her life revolved around the corner of Peabody and Belvedere. Her humor and culinary talents were enjoyed by many, as evidenced by an extensive cookbook collection with handwritten notes like ''ingredients x 20'' or ''Try this - Advent luncheon'' or ''Blech!'' written in the margins. Her coveted chicken divan recipe remains a mainstay for many Memphians.
From Vivaldi to Bowie, Manilow to Motown, she instilled a love for music in both children. She loved singing and her days in handbell choir; her children were signed up for church and school choirs as kindergarteners. In later years (much to her children's collective chagrin), she routinely rolled down the windows and played Pink Floyd in carpool line. Unsurprisingly, it was never a problem for her son's band, Sky Cow, to find a place to practice. Her happiest days included a revolving backdoor of hungry teenagers. You could show up unannounced, never bring a towel, and sit on any furniture in a wet bathing suit, but do not ever park behind her in the driveway. Ever.
Mrs. Sansing graduated from the University of Memphis in 1992 with a BA in Social Work, and her years working with teenagers at the Family Link were some of the most rewarding and enriching of her life. Of all her roles, mom to Jenny and Jay, and Gammaw to Annie were undoubtedly her favorites.
If she ever called you ''lamby'' or called you anything, frankly, you were welcome at that backdoor, anytime. Ever the consummate hostess, there was always a place (and plate) for you at the table, both literally and figuratively.
She is survived by her children and their spouses, Jennifer Sansing Hughes, and Michael Glenn Hughes of Memphis; Jerry Lawrence Sansing, Jr. and Leah Ourso Sansing of Memphis; one granddaughter Anne Campbell ''Annie'' Murff of Washington, D.C.; and one sister Kimberly Mobley Blalock of Jonesboro, Arkansas. Her family deeply appreciates the care and support of the staff at both Craighead Nursing Center and the Flo & Phil Jones Hospice House.
Requiem Eucharist will be Monday, November 28, 11 a.m. at Grace-St. Luke's Episcopal Church preceded by the 10 to 10:45 Visitation in Trezevant Hall.
In lieu of flowers, the family asks that donations be made to Grace-St. Luke's Episcopal Church, Grace-St. Luke's Episcopal School or in her honor to the charity of the donor's choice.

Obituary Provided By:
Roller-Farmers Union Funeral Home
1900 West Washington Ave.
Jonesboro, AR  72401
www.rollerfuneralhomes.com