Mildred Elaine Sassafras

Murphy Dandridge and Marie Johnson in Turners Station in Dundalk, Maryland. She departed this life on Friday November 3, 2023. Though born in Maryland Mildred spent a good part of her childhood growing up with her siblings in Goochland, Virginia. She would tell many stories of her humble beginnings and how God always made a way when things were tough. She accepted Jesus Christ at an early age and was baptized at Antioch Baptist Church in Virginia. She attended Dunbar High School and received her GED through the Training Research and Development program. She worked for the Social Security Administration for many years and retired as an Executive Secretary and Payroll Timekeeper for the Division. She was married and divorced twice, both preceded her in death; James Reed Williams with whom she had one child, and Benjamin “Tony” Sassafras. Mildred had a bubbly personality with an infectious laugh and a great sense of humor. She would easily smile in the face of adversity, and with all the wisdom she could gather, say to someone “You know it could be worse”. She loved music, loved to sing, and more than that she loved to dance, it was her “happy place”. There was no one who could cook like Mildred. She loved seeing people enjoy the food she prepared. Friends and family would put requests in early especially for holidays or special events. Even if she was following a recipe, she would add or change a few things to make it uniquely her own. Some of her specialties were Sweet Potato Pie, Cornbread Stuffing and Peaches and Cream dessert. We firmly believe her love was the special ingredient. As time and wisdom prevailed, she discovered she had a passion for people that were disadvantaged. She began volunteering at the Veterans Association and never looked back. She would visit the Veterans, serve them snacks and share the good news of our risen Savior, encouraging them to trust God and believe in His power. She received countless awards of recognition and was honored with the Presidential Award for the most volunteer hours, it was signed by President Obama. Mildred was a loving and devoted mother, a loyal and trusted friend and would do whatever she could to help if you were in need. She truly believed that love could conquer anything. She loved the Lord, she trusted the Lord and believed His Word. Mildred leaves to cherish her memory: her devoted daughter, Michele Del Valle; granddaughter, Jasmyn Mears whom she adored; sisters, Louise Ross, Shirley Muse,Delores Thompson; brother, John Dandridge Jr.; and a host of cousins, nieces, nephews and friends.

Tributes

Mildred Elaine Sassafras

December 12, 1942 - November 3, 2023