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.
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10 Condolence(s)
Jodie Falcone
Monday, November 28, 2022
Jennifer, I’ll never forget sunbathing in 55 degrees in February in Central Gardens (!) and how welcoming your mother always was to the neighborhood Lukers. I am so sorry for your loss, and send you so much love on your grief and celebration journey.
Cynthia Greenwood Johnson
Friday, November 25, 2022
Kim, I’m so sorry for the loss of your beautiful sister. She sounds like she had a wonderful life and family. Jesus will put her talents to work for His glory in Heaven just like when she was an angel on Earth. Blessings to you and her family.
Judy and John Haddad
Tuesday, November 22, 2022
Thoughts and prayers are with you all. She was an amazing woman! May your memories bring you comfort and peace.
Judy and John Haddad
Wanda Seaton Linebarger
Tuesday, November 22, 2022
Kim, I'm so sorry for your loss. I remember when Jelena would take us to the dance in Osceola.
She would have the radio blaring. Brings a smile to my face. May God comfort the family as only he can.
Faith Kaye
Monday, November 21, 2022
I’m so sorry for the loss of your beautiful Mom. She was such a lovely and loving lady.
Tory Sansing
Monday, November 21, 2022
Jennifer and Jay,
Although I was quite young when I spent time with your Mother, I clearly recall her bright big smile, her wit, and her maternal nature. (I also can still hear her voice.) I’m glad you both were the recipient of such love by a devoted and entertaining mother….who could cook!
Glad I was reconnected to her at Jay’s wedding.
I am sorry for the inevitable loss you face, and will be thinking of you both as you navigate this time.
Annie, I imagine you must be feeling such a loss as well, and am confident you must have made Jelena very proud.
Love you all! I will always recall her fondly.
Sincerely,
Tory
Marti McCloud
Monday, November 21, 2022
Sir sorry for your loss, Jay. I loved reading about your mom in this obituary. What a lovely write up about her. You and your family are on my prayers.
John Coleman
Monday, November 21, 2022
I graduated with Jelena and remember her fondly.
Kristen Lambert WALL
Monday, November 21, 2022
I loved Ms Jelena like my own momma. She was truly one of the kindest souls. I have many wonderful memories spent with Jennifer at their home. I know she will be missed.
Sharon Taylor
Monday, November 21, 2022
Sincere condolences to all of you!
Sharon