She was born in Birmingham, AL, the daughter of the late John and Marie Dawkins Servant. She was a high school graduate who went on to graduate from Brooklyn College and Marywood College where she earned a bachelors degree in Early Childhood Development. She also attended Keystone Junior College. She was an active member of the Peace Lutheran Church and along with her husband were visitors of many local churches. She was an active member of the community and community activities. She was a member of the West Scranton Senior Citizens Center and sang with the West Side Choraleers.

Also surviving are a son, Andrew J. Porter, Scranton; two daughters, Diana Purenell, Brooklyn, NY, Janice Gates, NY, NY; a brother, Robert Murray, Detroit, MI; a host of grandchildren, a great granddaughter, many nieces and nephews.

She was preceded in death by a host of brothers and sisters.

Friends may call on Sunday from 2 to 5 p.m. in the Miller Bean Funeral Home, Inc., 436 Cedar Avenue, Scranton. Funeral services will be held on September 20, at 10 a.m. in the Mt. Lebanon Baptist Church, 230 Decatur Street, Brooklyn, NY.