Frances Louise Faison was honored recently by Lisbon Street Missionary Baptist Church where she has served as choir director for more than 70 years. (Courtesy photo)

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Frances Louise Faison was honored on March 11, by the Lisbon Street Missionary Baptist Church family. Ms. Faison, who celebrated as a “Queen for a Day,” was presented with beautiful flowers, a tiara, cape, and corsage during a program in her honor. The celebration was also to commemorate her 90th birthday on March 14. She has been an organist and choir director at Lisbon Street Missionary Baptist Church for more than 70 years.

The Mistress of Ceremonies for the occasion was Peggy DeVane. Faison was escorted into the sanctuary by the children of the Church: Jaziya Marable, Zackery Aderinto, Leah Faison, and Amanda and Brittany Oates, while she was serenaded by Gilbert Chestnutt Jr. and Milford Oates Jr., performing the song, “It’s Your Time.” The occasion was by Maggie Wood Williams, followed by a heartfelt welcome by Mary Simmons Sampson. Scripture was read by Lois Parker and prayer by James A. Royal. A congratulatory letter from her former pastor, Dr. Rev. H.R. Cogdell, was read by Dolletha Pridgen. Many family members and friends shared “expressions of love” and recounted fond memories. A tribute entitled “What’s in a Name,” and a song, “I Believe,” was performed by the children.

The combined choirs of Lisbon Street Church regaled the “Queen” with musical selections. Minister Ernest Fryar gave an inspiring speech, and ettie Pernell read a proclamation by Mayor Lew Starling of Clinton, recognizing March 14, 2012 as “Frances Louise Faison Day.” Also, a tribute was sent by Gov. Beverly Perdue extolling the many contributions that Faison, who is a lifelong resident of Lisbon Street in Clinton, has made to the Lisbon Street community over her lifetime.

Faison stated during her remarks that she was proud to say that she has “lived on Lisbon Street all my life.” She also shared that she was overwhelmed by the honors that were being bestowed upon her, and that she was “most grateful.” After the program, a reception was held for Faison in the Fellowship Hall of the Church, where Kim Parker Faison performed Ms. Faison’s favorite song, “Great is thy Faithfulness.” Heavy hors d’oeuvres and punch were served, and a cake was also presented to Ms. Faison in her honor.

The Lisbon Street Missionary Baptist Church is blessed to have a person like Ms. Faison amongst them and the church thanks everyone who attended the program and who worked to make the program a success.