Atlean Prowell Searcy was born on November 13, 1925, to the proud parents of Rev. William and Annie Prowell of Marvel, Arkansas. She was the second child of six children born to this union. She was preceded in death by her parents, Annie and William; her sisters, Ruby Lee Woodson and Lucy Johnson; and her brothers, Willie and Levy Prowell.

Atlean received her education in the Phillips County Public School System. A gentle lady of grace and compassion, she carried herself with a quiet dignity that spoke volumes to all who knew her. She worked for the Spann Company, where she retired after 30 years of dedicated service.

On June 13, 1946, she was joined in holy matrimony to the love of her life, Rev. James R. Searcy, Jr. Together they built a life rooted in faith, love, and service — a union that would span 56 devoted years. To this union, three sons were born: James III, Andrew, and Emmanuel. She was a devoted Wife, Mother, Grandmother, Great-Grandmother, and a friend to a host of nieces and nephews.

Atlean was a devoted Christian who accepted Jesus Christ at an early age. She was raised in Moore Chapel CME Church in Arkansas, where her father, Rev. William Prowell, served as pastor. After relocating to St. Louis, she became one of the founding and organizing members of Second New Mount Zion Missionary Baptist Church, helping to establish the congregation from its earliest days. She served faithfully alongside her husband for 40 years until his retirement in 1998. She remained steadfast and committed to her faith throughout her life, giving God praise, honor, and glory in all things.

Her service to the Lord was a defining thread woven through every area of her life. Throughout the years, she served faithfully as a member of the church choir and as Sunday School Secretary, lending her gifts and dedication to the life of the congregation in every season. In her later years, she poured herself into the Mother’s Ministry — where she took great pride in teaching women about presenting themselves with dignity and proper attire in the house of God. Her wisdom extended beyond the walls of the church, as she was a trusted source of spiritual counsel and guidance to many ministers’ wives throughout the years.

At home, Atlean was the heartbeat of every gathering. She had a special love for the holidays, filling her home with warmth, laughter, and the unmistakable aroma of her cooking. Sunday meals were her favorite to prepare, and her “Fried Apple Pies” were legendary — a labor of love that her family will forever treasure. She also had a flair for fashion and loved to shop, always finding the finest pieces without spending a fortune. And her hats — her beloved hats — were a signature of the grace and style she carried all her life.

Mother Searcy leaves to celebrate her life and cherish her memory: her three sons, James (Patricia), Andrew, and Rev. Emmanuel. She also leaves behind one sister, Christean Macky Strong; one sister-in-law, Jerelene Prowell; 11 grandchildren and 12 great-grandchildren; and a host of nieces, nephews, cousins, and friends.