Mother Janie Bell (Summerson) Prezzy

“A LIFE WELL-LIVED: A VIRTIOUS WOMAN”
On Saturday, February 22, 2025, God looked around his garden and he found an empty place. He saw a woman clothed with strength and dignity, one who spoke wisely with faithful instructions on her tongue. He then looked down upon the earth, put His arms around Mother Janie Bell Summerson-Prezzy, and lifted her to rest.

Saturday, March 1, 2025, we mourn the death and celebrate the life of Mother Janie Bell Summerson-Prezzy, affectionately called “Bell” by her siblings. She was a woman of FAITH and INTEGRITY. Mother Prezzy was born on November 15, 1939, to the late George (Estelle) Summerson, Sr. in Holly Hill, SC.

“Rooted in Faith: Early Life”

Mother Prezzy grew up in Holly Hill, SC, where she attended the public schools and graduated from Roberts High School in Holly Hill, SC. She was employed at Days Inn in Santee, SC and later became a private home care provider, serving many in the Holly Hill area until her retirement. She grew up with a deep sense of love and devotion for her family, her church, and her community. She dedicated her life to serving others, embodying the teachings of Jesus through her selfless acts of kindness, compassion, and generosity. Whether serving at church, interceding for her family and friends, or offering a listening ear to those in need, she was always there and always the same. Mother Prezzy was known for her impeccable style, always wearing matching hats. She spent countless minutes ensuring that her hat was tilted perfectly, a testament to her attention to detail and elegance.

“A Life Guided by Faith: A Spiritual Journey”
Mother Prezzy began her Christian walk at an early age at Briner Christian Church, Holly Hill, SC. She later joined Brooks Temple, Holly Hill, under the spiritual leadership of the late Elder Brooks. On November 3, 1975, Mother Prezzy had an encounter with the Lord that changed her life; she received the Gift of the Holy Spirit. From that day forward, she dedicated her life to living for the Lord and telling everyone about His grace and His goodness. Her life exemplified how walking with the Lord and talking about the Lord, should align. Mother Prezzy was a prayer warrior who knew and believed that prayer changed things. She prayed for over 27 years for husband to be saved, and because she didn’t give up, God answered her prayer. Mother Prezzy served as the Church Mother of Refuge Temple Holly Hill for over 15 years under the spiritual leadership of her Pastor, District Elder Harold Young. She also served as the District Missionary Supervisor for District #2 and received various awards and recognitions, including the Mother of the Ages Award, and winner of the South Carolina Upstate Missionary Mother, Daughter, Granddaughter Banquet. In 2015, Refuge Temple Holly Hill honored Mother Prezzy with a Day of Appreciation for her many years of service and dedication as their Church Mother.

Mother Prezzy was a beacon of light; her unwavering faith in Christ was evident in every aspect of her life. 1 Corinthians 3:6 explains how God gives each of us a role in His kingdom: one plants, one waters, and God gives the increase. Mother Prezzy planted many seeds that led to many people accepting Christ as their Lord and Savior. Her spiritual journey impacted and touched many lives in a positive way. She was a spiritual mother to many, pouring into lives and encouraging everyone she encountered to live right, do right, and treat each other right. She never withheld the truth, always telling it no matter what. This was a true testament to her faith and commitment to living a life of purpose and one that was pleasing to the Lord. Her gentle spirit, wisdom, and unwavering love were a source of strength and comfort to many.

“Cherished Memories: A Lasting Legacy”

Mother Prezzy was united in holy matrimony to the late Deacon James O. Prezzy, Sr. on March 24, 1959. This union was blessed with seven children. She was a devoted wife and a loving mother to her children. Her words of wisdom and her love for God, deeply resonated with her children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren guiding them through various stages of their lives. They cherished her advice, often drawing strength and clarity from her thoughtful counsel during challenging times. Her teachings instilled in them valuable life lessons that shaped their character and influenced their decisions. The profound impact of her guidance will forever remain a cherished legacy in their hearts.

Mother Prezzy was preceded in death by one son, Leroy Prezzy; one brother, Joe Louis Summerson; one sister, Gertie Summerson; and one grandson, whom she reared in her home, Jaheim Johnson. Mother Prezzy leaves to cherish her loving memories, her devoted family, whom she loved unconditionally: six children, five sons: James (Mary Ann) Prezzy, Jr., Michael Prezzy, both of Holly Hill, SC, Anthony (Pam) Prezzy of Summerville, SC, Melvin Prezzy of Columbia, SC, Gregory Prezzy, of the home; and her only daughter, whom cared for her and loved her unconditionally, Genease (Godfrey) Dingle of Santee, SC. She is also survived by two brothers: George (Ruthie) Summerson and Virgil (Genease) Summerson, both of Holly Hill, SC; two sisters: Dorothy (Walter, Sr.) Prezzy and Lillian (Elder Roosevelt) Russell, both of Holly Hill, SC; two sisters- in-law: Mary Jane Prezzy, whom she loved like a sister and Rosena Summerson, both of Holly Hill, SC; one brother in law: Edward Prezzy, Jr. of Columbia, SC; thirteen grandchildren, sixteen great-grandchildren, four great-great grandchildren, a special God-daughter: Kendra Snell, and a host of nieces, nephews, other family members, and friends who will miss her dearly. Her legacy of love and faith will continue to inspire and guide all who were fortunate to be touched by her presence.

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