Remembering Our Pioneers

Honoring the Women Who Paved the Way

Phyllis W. White

A Legacy of Leadership and Love

Phyllis White, lovingly known as Meme, was the first Board
President of Sisters’ Journey after its incorporation in 2004. As the mother of our founder, she played a vital role in continuing the mission and keeping the organization strong.

A passionate volunteer for the American Cancer Society,
Meme dedicated her life to educating young women about health, self-advocacy, and early detection.

To honor her unwavering commitment, we offer four annual scholarships in remembrance of our founding
leaders.

Her legacy inspires our future.

Learn About the Scholarships

Family gatherings were always the most special times for Barbara (left) and Linda (right). Also shown are Linda’s son George (back left), one of Barbara’s sons, Frank (back
right) and friends of the boys, Rufus and Tony.

Barbara Winters

A Friend, Advocate, and Beloved Mother

Though Barbara Winters did not battle breast cancer
herself, she stood beside Sisters’ Journey from the very
beginning—offering unwavering support to her close
friend Linda White-Epps and countless other women. She
believed deeply in uplifting others through compassion
and community.

Barbara was a tireless advocate—not only for breast
cancer awareness, but also for issues like homelessness,
education, and equity. Her legacy of service, strength,
and love lives on through her children and the many lives
she touched.

We honor Barbara’s memory as we continue the work she
championed: supporting women, building community,
and carrying the torch forward.

Her love lives on.

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Yvonne Cooper Watson

A Life Rooted in Faith, Love, and Purpose

Yvonne Cooper-Watson was a founding light in Sisters’ Journey. Her unwavering faith, love for family and friends,
and deep commitment to uplifting others helped shape
the organization into a beacon of faith, hope, and
sisterhood for African American women.

Through her 11-year breast cancer journey, Yvonne
inspired everyone around her—including her husband,
LeRoy Watson, who remembers her strength, joy, and the
passion she poured into Sisters’ Journey.

Yvonne believed in the power of love—imperfect,
resilient, and ever-present—and cherished education,
prayer, and community. Her spirit lives on through her
children, grandson, extended family, and the many lives
she touched.

We honor her legacy with every step forward.

Forever loved. Forever remembered.

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