Life & Legacy of Sarah Ruth Johnson Welch Douglas

Sarah Ruth Johnson Welch Douglas, well known and/or affectionately known as “Sar Ruth”, “Nanny”, “Sis. Douglas”, “Tit-ta”, & “Chuckie”, was a mother, grandmother, great-grandmother, great-great grandmother and a proud retired dietitian. She was born November 16, 1937 to the late Henry and Rosalie Johnson. However, after being a COVID-19 survivor and having had a recent short-illness, she peaceably passed away on Monday, March 23, 2026, at her home at the age of 88.

Sarah accepted Jesus Christ as her personal Savior and was baptized at an early age at the 2nd Mt. Olive Baptist Church under the leadership of the late Rev. Eddie Perkins. There, she served faithfully in the choir ministry.

Sarah was a 1957 graduate of McKinley Senior High School (East Baton Rouge Parish School District). Also, she studied several years at Southern University (Baton Rouge, LA). However, she chose to get married and become a mother.

Sarah was employed at Louisiana State University Food Department as a cafeteria worker. Later, she retired from the East Baton Rouge Parish School District after 26+ years as the head dietician in the Food Service Department where she received awards of recognition and commendations.

Sarah enjoyed celebrating life either by attending events, catering at events or hosting events. She celebrated with the McKinley High School Alumni Association. Additionally, she celebrated with her family (i.e., being an unofficial school Booster Mom). Plus, she celebrated with her personal friends in Baton Rouge, LA and surrounding towns.

Sarah was married to the late Herbert “Jeff” Welch for 12 years and to this union were born Debra Welch Pitcher (Houston, TX), Chandra G. Welch (Baton Rouge, LA) and Rhonda D. Welch (Baton Rouge, LA). Later, Sarah married to the late Norris C. ”Doug” Douglas, Jr., until his passing.

Sarah also has left (in addition to her three daughters) other family members to cherish her memory: five grandchildren D’Juana Howard Mouton, Wanda Welch Harris, Jeffery L. Welch, Tahra “Chachie” Welch (all of Baton Rouge, LA) and Corbin G. Pitcher (Houston, TX); eight great-grandchildren; two bonus great-grandchildren; and one great-great grandchild.

Sarah was preceded in death by her parents Henry and Rosalie Johnson and by her brother James K. “Kenny” Johnson, Sr.

Sarah will be remembered by her family for her maternal attributes – uniquely loving all of them; as well as, being remembered by her friends for her celebratory spirit – full of laughter and good timing – plus, cheering Southern University Jaguars to another victory.