Sarah Ann Shipman

Sarah Ann Shipman, 90, Topeka, died Tuesday, March 11, 2008 at Brewster Place.

She was born August 20, 1917 near Elmont, Kansas the daughter of Lester B. and Mary B. Zarker Pence. She graduated from Seaman High School and received a Bachelor of Science degree and a Masters degree in Home Economics and Education from Kansas State University.

Mrs. Shipman was a teacher at Shawnee Heights High School before retiring in 1977. Previously she had taught at Hoyt High School, Highland Park High School and County Line and Golden Rod schools in Shawnee County.

Sarah was a member of Highland Park United Methodist Church, United Methodist Women, Topeka Area Retired Teachers Association, Kansas Retired Teachers Association, Kansas State University Alumnae Association, Seaman High School Alumnae Association, National Family Opinion, and Alpha Delta Kappa Sorority. She was a former member of Topeka Home Economist. After retirement, she served as a volunteer for her church, Topeka Performing Arts Center, and Topeka Civic Theatre.

She married Earl Shipman on June 10, 1941 in Topeka. He survives. She was preceded in death by a son and by her brother, Charles Pence.

Survivors include two sons, Larry Joe Shipman and wife, Barbara of Topeka and Lester Lynn Shipman and wife, Sandra of Wilmington, Delaware; a sister, Marilyn Galle of Manhattan; three granddaughters, Elissa Shipman of Topeka, Michelle Shipman of Topeka, and Danelle Shipman of silver Lake; six great-grandchildren, Kaile Shipman, Austin Richards, Natalie Richards, Morgan Shipman, Jacob Kennedy, and Ryan Kennedy.

Funeral services will be held at 10:00 a.m. Monday at Highland Park United Methodist Church. Interment will be in Prairie Home Cemetery. Sarah will lie in state from 9 a.m. until service time at the church.

Memorial contributions may be made to Highland Park United Methodist Church, 2914 SE Michigan, 66605, or to the organization of the donor's choice.

Penwell-Gabel Southeast Chapel is in charge of arrangements.