But we have this treasure in earthen vessels, that the excellency of the power may be of God, and not of us. 2 Corinthians 4:7
Bobbette Genevieve Wilson Morrow was born in Columbus, OH, to William and Mary Wilson on June 3, 1928. The family was thrilled with their new addition, who was to be the last of their large brood. In fact, at the time of her birth her second eldest brother was getting married in Washington, D.C. The Williams-Wilson clan extended over a large age span.
The family relocated to Columbus, OH, from Lynchburg, VA, in search of opportunities for better jobs and education for the children. Although, they had been members of the Methodist Church, they were introduced to the Apostolic Pentecostal doctrine under the leadership of Bishop R.C. Lawson, later to be a renowned church planter, organizer, and erudite speaker. The transition to the Apostolic Pentecostal lifestyle was complete and total. Bobbette was baptized in the name of Jesus and filled with the Holy Ghost in her youth.
Bobbette graduated from East High School, Columbus, OH in 1947. Furthering her education at The Ohio State University, where she earned bachelor’s and master’s degrees, making her an academic pioneer for the African American community.
At the university she majored in Elementary School Education while minoring in attending football games and engaging in the sorority life as a member of Delta Sigma Theta Sorority Incorporated. While at Ohio State, she met her future husband, Charles Gordon Morrow, a returning GI who had grown up in Cleveland OH. After they were married, Charles completed Dental Studies in Nashville, TN. The young family began to make their mark on the world.
Their only child, Cheryl Lynne, was born in Columbus. The family relocated for a brief time to Washington, D.C., and eventually settled in Cleveland, OH. Bobbette taught in the Columbus City School system for a short period of time until they quickly moved to Cleveland, where she became a gifted teacher in the Cleveland Public School System. Bobbette held positions at many schools; she was proud to teach gifted children throughout most of her career. She spent several years as an elementary school principal. She was a beloved educator who received kudos from her former students for many years – several students have even stayed in touch until her passing. Her colleagues admired her forthright nature, her high respect and regard for her staff, and her ability to deal effectively with children, students, and parents. For Sister Bobbette, as she loved to be called, all aspects of life are a team sport.
Family was central to her existence as the youngest of nine siblings. In her early life she was treated like a Princess as the older siblings doted on her. She was her parents’ pride and joy, always outgoing, talkative, and willing to work in any capacity. She was an absolute delight to be around. It must be said that she and her siblings remained devoted to one another throughout life, and that continues with their offspring. There was never any hesitancy to meet the needs of the community or embrace family and friends.
Bobbette maintained friendships over the years, even with those she met in elementary school. In her professional life her connectedness with others was also paramount. Her friendship circle was wide, and she kept her close friends close at hand. If she participated in a project, it was known that she would give herself wholeheartedly, enthusiastically, and untiringly to the task at hand. She had an eclectic group of friends; there was no one type of person that could enter her circle: all were welcomed and loved.
As a young adult in her home church, she taught Sunday School and participated in many groups and activities. Many are unaware that she was musically inclined; as a teenager, she accompanied and directed church singing groups. Her knowledge and memory of foundational songs and hymns of Pentecostal worship was vast.
Bobbette created a world of wonder, exploration, and academic challenge for her child. Most importantly, she helped develop her child spiritually by modeling a Christlike character.
In 1963, Pentecostal Church of Christ welcomed Sis. Morrow with open arms; she became an active member of the Pentecostal Singers, the Board of Christian Education and Dean of the Aenon Bible College. She served under the pastorates of Bishop Charles William Watkins and Bishop Jesse Delano Ellis II. Many remember her as the voice of the “Sound of Pentecost,” when she introduced the broadcast and made announcements for the well-recognized, city-wide radio program. Her distinctive introduction left no doubt that the “Sound of Pentecost,” was coming across the airwaves.
To her one child, Cheryl Lynne, she was friend, confidante, encourager, “prodder”, and life coach. Together they forged new roads and made each other proud. The depth of their love and respect for one another cannot be fathomed and they had an unspoken commitment to one another which lasted her lifetime and beyond.
Sister Bobbette had an immense impact on the life of her beloved grandson, Paul Howard Allen White. No words can adequately describe the bond they developed through years of close, mutually satisfying relationship. The years of relationship were characterized by mutual admiration, uproarious laughter, careful instruction, and direction blanketed in prayer. As “Grandmommy” aged, Paul stepped forward to do her errands (in the car that she gave to him!) and cater to her every whim for meal delivery. They were entirely devoted to one another.
Travel was a priority in Bob’s life plan. In the early years much travel time was devoted to attending church conventions. She found joy in the teaching sessions and the worship services. In the Bibleway Worldwide organization founded by her brother, Bishop Smallwood E Williams, her entire family found a spiritual fulcrum. It should be noted that her enthusiasm for other organizations was apparent. Church of Our Lord Jesus Christ, Pentecostal Assemblies of the World, and many other organizations contributed to her spiritual growth. She was frequently called upon to teach and encourage gatherings of church education leaders and women’s ministry groups locally and nationally. Her teaching activated and motivated many church workers.
With the passage of time, Bobbette’s travel extended beyond the set borders of convention travel to include the Caribbean, Europe and closer to home her beloved Chautauqua. For over 20 years, the family looked forward to the annual trips to Chautauqua, so Bobbette could be called a “Chautauquan”.
If you knew Sister Morrow at all, you were aware that for over 20 years she has been working on a book detailing method for educating children’s hearts. It was her seminal piece of writing and although not finalized in her lifetime, it will be completed! This project will be of great value to those who partake of her experience and knowledge.
Many will remember and cherish the event she designed for Fall 2019. At the age of 91, Mother Morrow sponsored an event for 200 women that she named, “Celebrating My Sisters.” What a joyous celebration with music, fellowship and a brief talk from Sister Morrow encouraging the women to accept and complete the individual assignment that God has given them. This, her signature event, was designed as a way of affirming the support that women can provide for one another, and it was based on her recognition that this support was critical to her ability to “press toward the mark.”
Mother Bobbette Morrow is survived by her daughter, Cheryl Morrow White M.D. (fiancé, Michael Allen); her grandson, Paul Howard Allen White; her beloved nieces, nephews, and their families; dear heart-friends and “children” given to her along this life path; all dear to her heart.
Her passing leaves the seat of “matriarch” of the Williams-Wilson family without an occupant but she assured by word and example that we knew the way to walk and that we would trust or plans and future to the God who loves us so dearly.

To God be the glory… Great things He has done.
A Life Well Lived…..