Obituary of Serena A Curtis

Reverend Serena A. Curtis, second daughter of the late Robert V. and Martha Comegys, sister to Lela M. Matthews (deceased), granddaughter of Greta Mae Comegys, (deceased), was born and raised in Camden, New Jersey. Rev. Curtis was educated in the Camden Public School System, graduating from Woodrow Wilson High School, where she received awards in Art. She later attended Camden County College in Blackwood, New Jersey, studying Psychology, Sociology and Early Childhood, maintaining a GPA of 3.2, achieving the Dean’s List on two occasions. Rev. Curtis attended Boulden Seminary in Wilmington, Delaware, graduating in 1998 with a degree in Theology. She also had the opportunity to study the original languages of the Bible (Greek & Hebrew) under the capable teaching of Rev. Robert Merrill at the Camden Bible Institute. Her career background has been in the area of civil law where she was employed for over twenty-eight years. Rev. Curtis was the proud and grateful mother of Candace, Nicole, Robert (pre-deceased) and Michael; grandmother to Leah, Renee, Jonee, Kiara, Sarina, Michael, Jr., Bryce, and Brianna; great grandmother to Tailynn, Kingston and Ashlee. Rev. Curtis was a Union American Methodist Episcopal (U.A.M.E.) child of God. At an early age her grandmother, Sis. Comegys taught her the way of the Lord, leading her to teach Sunday School and Vacation Bible School at Mt. Hope U.A.M.E. Church, 11th and Linden Streets, in Camden. She also enjoyed singing in the Senior Choir and Gospel Chorus as well as serving on the Trustee and Steward Boards. Rev. Curtis was called into the ministry in 1977. She was an ordained Elder and former Pastor of Spencer U.A.M.E. Church, Woodstown, New Jersey (17 years) and St. John U.A.M.E. Church, Riverside, New Jersey (3 years). She also assisted in the growth of United Survivors Ministry in Woodstown. Rev. Curtis has served in many capacities in the general and local church; Assistant General Secretary; Secretary to the Ministerium and Assistant/Secretary General Claims Fund Board. Rev. Curtis taught several classes at Boulden Seminary: Minor and Major Prophets (Old Testament), Sermon Preparation and Evangelistic classes. She has volunteered at J.F. Kennedy Hospital, Stratford, New Jersey and participated in the Juvenile Court Committee of Salem County; Cooper Medical Center and Memorial Hospital of Salem County Pastoral Care Department Team. Affectionately known as Sweenie and Sween, Rev. Curtis always had an open house and open heart to all. 1130 Van Hook Street was a place for all neighborhood children and friends to gather for food, fun, laughter, and love. There was always music, be it singing or playing, with a generous dose of Stevie Wonder, Earth Wind and Fire and The Whispers. One could also be a part of the exercise class and Bible Study held in the living room. Rev. Curtis touched many lives over the years with her extended hand, loving smile, and her anointing. She will be forever cherished as a Mother to All she encountered. Rev. Serena A. Curtis loves her family and her Church, but God always comes first. The scripture dear to her heart: Psalm 127:1, “Except the LORD build the house, they labour in vain that build it; except the LORD keep the city, the watchman waketh but in vain.” Reputation is how people see you. Character is who you really are. Rev. Curtis will forever be missed by her children Candace (Darrick), Nicole (Moses), Michael (Alethia); grandchildren Leah (Ash), Renee, Jonee, Kiara, Sarina, Michael Jr., Bryce, and Brianna; great grandchildren Tailynn, Kingston and Ashlee; Aunt Margaret (Sis) Comegys, and a host of cousins, nieces, nephews and friends.