Sara Elizabeth McFerrin, of Washington DC, died peacefully in her sleep on December 1, 2019, at the age of 95. Sara had a long and distinguished career in music as a lyrical soprano and teacher. A graduate of Howard University, she adjudicated auditions for the Metropolitan Opera, where her husband of twenty years, Robert McFerrin Sr, was the first African-American to sign a contract. Her voice could be heard in the touring company of “Lost in the Stars” as well as in the chorus in the 1958 film “Porgy and Bess,” for which her husband provided the singing voice for the titular role of Porgy. Sara would then go on to inspire students for over 20 years at Fullerton College as the head of both the voice and music departments. Always presenting herself with poise, Sara would lovingly correct anyone on their grammar and diction. She was the very definition of a lady. Sara is survived by son Bobby McFerrin, her daughter Brenda McFerrin, her daughter-in-law Debbie and grandchildren Taylor, Jevon and Madison McFerrin. A service will be held at Saint Andrews Episcopal Church 1231 E. Chapman Ave. Fullerton, CA. Saturday, Dec. 7th at noon.
