If you walk the halls of Legacy Village of Cleveland on a sunny afternoon, you might spot Sarah. Her laughter rises above the hum of conversation, her eyes bright with the warmth of a thousand memories. Sarah was born in Carrabelle, Florida, to Edward and Frankie Winchester. She and her brother, Franklin—affectionately known as Buddy—spent their days exploring with their black and white collie, Snooper, on sandy streets that smelled of salt and adventure.

Sarah’s early years took her from Florida to New Orleans, where she attended Caddo School, and then to Brownsville, Texas. There, she sang in the school choir, earned her letter for her sweater, babysat neighborhood children, and learned to sew, all while finishing her studies at Brownsville Elementary and High School.

After graduation, Sarah attended R&M Business School for two years, taking courses in banking and bookkeeping. She soon started working as a bank teller at Brownsville Savings and Loan. Around this time, Sarah met Rex, the preacher’s son at Simpson St. Baptist Church, where she was a member. Their relationship grew, and it wasn’t long before Sarah and Rex were married.

When Rex’s parents moved to Lamar, Colorado for his father’s church position, Sarah and Rex followed, beginning a new chapter together. In Lamar, Sarah worked as a bookkeeper at a local drug store, and soon their family grew with the arrival of two daughters, Debbie (Tom) and Rexie Lynn (Jess). Sarah cherished her years as a stay-at-home mother, often saying that watching her daughters grow was her greatest joy.

After about six years in Colorado, the family moved to Monroe, Louisiana. Sarah joined American Bank, now known as Regions, and built a remarkable 34-year career there, retiring as Vice President. She loved banking, anything to do with math, and always put her heart into helping customers and colleagues.

Sarah’s life outside work was just as full. For more than 50 years, she’s been part of North Monroe Baptist Church, teaching Sunday school and singing in the choir. She joined the Southern Sass line dancing group, played with her local Pokeno club, and bowled in a league. She loved to travel, visiting Alaska, Hawaii, the Mediterranean, Rome, Turkey, and Venice. Closer to home, she especially enjoyed trips to Branson and Gatlinburg with Rex, admiring wood carvings—Rex himself was a talented wood carver.

Today, Sarah enjoys life at Legacy Village. Her family has grown to five grandchildren and five great-grandchildren, and she loves spending time with them. She stays active in the community, playing bingo, attending church, joining games of cornhole, and walking and talking with friends.



Sarah’s story is part of what makes Legacy Village feel like home—a place built on memories, friendships, and a deep sense of belonging. We are so thankful Sarah chose to call Legacy Village home.