Obituary of Emmett Sewell

Emmett was born July 9, 1935 in Bette, Texas. He said he was blessed to have three mothers over the course of his life. First his biological mother Evert Jennings-Williams. Second, he was reared by his mother Ludie Mae along with his father Augustus Sewell in Oktaha, Oklahoma and third, Caroline Tillman who played a role in his life during his union to Jane Tillman-Sewell his wife. Emmett accepted the Lord at an early age and was baptized at Sewell Chapel under Reverend J.W. Holly. He graduated Manuel Training High School in May 1954 and married the love of his life, Jane Tillman. Emmett and Jane were married for 62 years. Emmett was one of the first African American installers to work for The Southwestern Bell Telephone Company. He worked 37 1/2 years with perfect attendance until retiring. He was elected as the first African American Chief Union steward of the (CWA) Communications Workers of America. He traveled extensively for years representing Bell Telephone. Emmett also enjoyed working at the Tulsa County Election Board as a precinct worker and clerk. He believed in young people registering to vote and often explained the importance of having a voice in government. His mantra was to always touch someone’s life and leave it better than before. Emmett is survived by his wife Jane Sewell and three daughters, Carolyn Sewell of Texas, Janet Sewell-Thornton of Las Vegas Nevada and Marcene Sewell Gulley and her husband G.R. Gulley of NYC. Five grandchildren and four great grandchildren. His siblings Lee Sewell (deceased), Anna Derrick, Lois F. Myers, Nelda Mundy (deceased), Donna York, Annie Woods, Jerry Williams, Mary Page and Gwenda Williams. Most importantly of all Emmett loved the Lord and put God first. He was a faithful member of The Mt. Zion Baptist Church and attended every Sunday. Emmett often stated that no one was perfect other than the father who art in heaven. While Emmett may not have been a perfect man. He was indeed perfected by his imperfections which made him a better, husband, father, brother and cornerstone of our community.