By Shirley A. Satterfield

The year was 1952, a time when the “Old Clay Street” was already a memory, the houses were demolished, the ice plant was gone and the corner where the Borough barn was is now the black top. I remember so many wonderful times when families took care of each other, the children played happily in the street and, while walking to Witherspoon Street to shop for groceries at Tilly and Morris’ grocery store, I would pass by the row houses where Mrs. Mamie Lee Oldham lived with her parents and six siblings at 221 Witherspoon Street. In this year, my mother, grandmother and I moved from 15 Clay Street to 81 Birch Avenue, one of the houses that was moved from Baker Street.

By 1954, the new Hageman Homes on Clay Street welcomed returning and new residents. My mother, grandmother and I moved into 16 Clay Street where I lived during my teenage years. In later years, Mamie, her daughter Wendy and son Junior lived at this residence. I often told her that we lived in the same house, only at different times!

To appreciate the life and service of this Woman of Valor, we remember her many acts of kindness and her service to this community. Many who live or have lived on Clay Street have been touched by Mamie’s care, compassion, and her generous heart. There were many times when she gave her time and patience to neighbors and friends who needed comfort, a meal, a ride to the store or a doctor’s appointment, or spent time with a neighbor who just needed someone to listen.

Mamie Jaconery Lee Oldham, 1931-2024

Mamie is a woman generous of heart. For years she walked practically every day across Witherspoon Street to the Princeton Hospital to volunteer and often to donate blood. Her service for the lives of others, her care, her prayers and her strength of spirit were extended to many of us who were blessed by her friendship and love.

Mamie is a child of God. She gained her strength from the Lord, not fearing anything. She was a faithful steward of her family church – Morning Star Church of God in Christ. She and her siblings were small children when their parents joined and worshipped in the small white praise house. In later years she served her church in all areas of worship, church services and events. Mamie took care of every entity of the church – including the many dinners she prepared for church services and conventions. When the church was distributing fresh food every Saturday, Mamie was there preparing and distributing it. She rightfully earned the title ”Mother of the Church.”

When the 29 Witherspoon-Jackson Heritage Plaques were completed, the first four to be installed were at our four churches. Neighborhood residents journeyed to the first church to be recognized – Morning Star Church of God in Christ – where, after a welcome from Elder Bynes, Mamie unveiled the first plaque – her family church!

Mamie is a woman of conviction. She was honest, direct and one who would often let you know that she stood for no nonsense! Yet she was kind, patient and caring and always made time to be a true friend and a loyal acquaintance.

Mamie and my mother were dear friends. She addressed my mother as “Ms. Satterfield, my buddy.” For many years they were partners who catered for many Princeton families and community events. They enjoyed days of togetherness just talking, laughing, and taking short rides. She was a welcomed and contributing member of my family, joining in family gatherings and dinners.

We were two older women who would always greet each other with a “YO”, that’s why I called her my “YO friend”!

To Mamie’s family, Elder Bynes and members of Morning Star Church of God in Christ, to each one who is present in this sanctuary, know that Mamie Lee Oldham is a Woman of Valor. I use present tense because we continue to, and will always, honor her unconditional friendship, her care and many acts of kindness, her love and devotion to her family, and her love of God. Our hearts rejoice in the memories we have shared – the laughter and the tears. These treasures embody the rich tapestry of Mamie’s life.