Sarah Lee Bird

Sarah Lee Bird 1935 – 2025
Sarah Lee Bird, a beloved mother, grandmother, and cherished community member, passed away peacefully, leaving behind a legacy of love, faith, and delicious sheet cakes. Born in 1935 to humble, hardworking farmers, Sanders and James Anna Forest, Sarah grew up in Vidalia, Georgia, where the rhythm of farm life instilled in her a strong work ethic and a deep connection to the land.
With dreams of a new life and a career as a hairdresser, Sarah moved north with her late husband, Johnnie Bird Sr. After a brief time in Ohio, they settled in what would become her lifelong home, Bridgeport, Connecticut. It was in Bridgeport that Sarah raised her six children with remarkable strength and grace while working various jobs and eventually securing a permanent job with Harvey Hubbell, where she eventually retired after more than 30 years.
Known for her kindness and warmth, Sarah was adored by her neighbors and friends. Her reputation for baking, especially her famous sheet cakes, was legendary, and her sense of style was equally memorable. A true fashion icon, she was rarely seen without one of her elegant hats. Sarah also rode in style, proudly purchasing a new Cadillac every three years.
Although she made Bridgeport her home, the farm was never far from her heart. Each summer and Christmas season, she would pack up the Cadillac with her children for the long road trip back to Georgia. These annual pilgrimages were filled with life lessons through farming, family time with her parents, and a routine stop at "Pedro's at South of the Border" for fireworks.
A woman of deep faith, Sarah had a personal relationship with God. She was a faithful member of Messiah Baptist Church in Bridgeport for over 40 years, and she reaffirmed her salvation a little over a year ago.
Sarah is survived by her six children, Sheila Bird, Veronica Bird, Johnnie Bird Jr., Neshanda Bird, Taderrele Bird (wife Twana), and Rosheon T. Bird (wife Stephanie). She also leaves behind ten grandchildren who she deeply adored: Cachet Prescott, Kaity Bird, Johnnie Bird III, Marshay Hardy, LaQuesha Nicholson, LeVaughn Nicholson, Tamia Bird, Taylor Bird, Ashlie Bird McMillon, Rosheon Xavier Bird and nine great grandchildren. We celebrate Sarah's earthly life and give thanks to God for her eternal life, praising him forever. Amen.
Revelation 21:4 -'He will wipe every tear from their eyes and there will be no more death' or sorrow or crying or pain.
So, we all say to you Mommy, "Sarah, smile... just smile and we'll do the same :-)"