London, Snowdry Prothro (Mrs. William)

This was quite a woman, Snowdry London. She had a tremendous spirit, resolve and appreciation for all aspects of life. Her story is a wonderful affirmation of the gift of life. “Snow's” story begins in the small town of Griffin , Georgia. She was born of Mary Westmoreland and Hillard Prothro.

A favorite family pastime was listening to Snow's tales of growing up with a large family of thirteen brothers and sisters. She talked about being poor, but well off and about her parents being educated and owning their own land. Often, her stories assumed majestic proportions. Sometimes even the most matter of fact details contained an element of the mystical. From her childhood, she was taught to triumph over obstacles and always maintain a joy in living and a determination to share whatever advice, material things or time she had to share. She was “Granny” to everyone on Peniston Street where she lived more than forty years.

Snow had a thirst for learning and a deep love of reading. But her belief in the importance of learning extended even further. Education was a must for children and grandchildren (all of who are college graduates) and even for herself. She was always grateful that she finished college (Southern University, Baton Rouge); and she was proud of achieving her Masters in Education (Loyola University, New Orleans) even though her achievement had to wait until her children had become married adults. Later, she made a career for herself as a beloved student counselor at Delgado Community College in New Orleans where she stayed for many years.

Her Christian faith was always the center of her life. It was no surprise that she chose to marry a minister, William R. London, Jr. (deceased 1986). They shared two daughters, Maxine London Stewart, and Letitia Ann London-Shakir. Letitia died in 2000.

Everyone who met Snow knew that she loved people. It was always apparent. She showered us with an extravagance of warmth that was heartfelt and steadfast. She was quick to dispense advice and wisdom (whether you wanted it at the time or not) with the patient expectation that we might one day grow into beings who demonstrated the strength of character and appreciation for hard work, which she believed so important.

Finally, we'll all remember that Miss Snow loved putting on a show. The family kitchen, a relative's living room, or a friend's back porch, became her stage. If there was a crowd, she had laughter and verve. If there was New Orleans Jazz she had a snap of her fingers and placed her hands on her hips. Above all, there was always kindness. This was the refrain that she danced to the most and where she found the greatest joy.

Snowdry is survived by daughter Maxine London Stewart, son-in-law Perry Stewart and their two daughters, Allisen Berkley Stewart and Ashley Brooke Stewart. Her daughter Letitia Shakir's three children, Najah Shakir, Ahmad Shakir and Khadijah Shakir-Hankton; one remaining sister, Ruby Turnipseed; three great-grandchildren, Serenity, Khayree and Mahasin; and many nieces, nephews and very loyal and faithful friends.

She will be greatly missed and fondly remembered.