Denise Blackman Sorrell

Denise was born and raised in Newton Grove, NC to loving parents Robert and Estelle Blackman. She truly loved her two brothers and sister: Powel, Philip, and Karen Blackman. Venturing out to pursue a degree in Interior Decorating, she graduated from Campbell University and went on to a successful career making houses become beautiful homes for families. Moving to the Cary, NC area, she met and married Loyd Sorrell, the love of her life. Two children, Colby Fleming and Sterling Sorrell, would be added to the happy family. Following years would add two treasured grandchildren Benaiah and Obadiah Fleming.

Shortly after beginning their married life together, Loyd and Denise found Colonial Baptist Church (now The Shepherd's Church). What began as a convenient option to meet the social church requirement became the center for the Sorrell family in the years which followed. Under the teaching of Pastor Davey, Denise made the most important decision of her life and chose to follow after the Lord Jesus Christ. From then on, her life was not the same. Her thirst for the Word of God began at that time and only grew as the years past. From her years spent in Bible Study Fellowship, MOPS, and small group Bible studies, she found many dear and treasured friends.

After 60 years, Denise's faith finally became sight as she went home to her Savior in heaven. She leaves behind her husband Loyd of 32 years, daughter Colby with husband Caleb, son Sterling, two grandchildren Benaiah and Obadiah, and one brother Philip.

In lieu of flowers, she has requested that donations be made to the Gideons for distribution of Bibles and to Samaritan Ministries who have been such a blessing to her family the past 10 years.