America Little

April 6, 1929 - October 28, 2021

Born in the fragrant springtime on April 6th, 1929, in Letcher County, Kentucky, Tom & Mandy Boggs welcomed another new life, the last of their nine offspring. A difficult home birth, two of her elder siblings were charged with the task of choosing her name, hence came, “America”. The sweet rolling hills and lush mountains filled with farm life, family, and a footbridge to her homestead, were where her early days began. Milking cows and playing through the seasons, birthed an imaginative young girl who brought light, life and laughter to her kinfolk and townspeople alike. Her pitch-black hair, olive skin, and lively spirit made her not only the favored baby of the clan, but a treasured addition to the Boggs family in their deep hollow of the South in Linefork, KY. She is survived by one sibling, her dear sister, Ella, age 95. Their sisterhood was filled with daydreams, and deep-rooted love and adventure, as they remained treasured friends until the very end. Her other siblings were also beloved: Shade, Mae, George, Magdalene, Joanne, Martha, and James. When a handsome young fellow began visiting their farmstead with eyes only for her, she married Charles Edward Little in the summer of 1946, and remained a devoted and loving wife until death parted them in 2005 after 59 years of marriage. After three years together Charles and America welcomed their eldest daughter, Deborah (Debbie Ormando). Seven years later she greeted another baby girl, Sheral (Chennault). America instilled all the beautiful traits of a true, graceful, southern woman into both of her treasured children, with proficiency in cooking, housekeeping, and properly caring for a home at the forefront, leading by her Proverbs 31 example. Both of her daughters were by her side in her last days, remaining steadfast to their mother’s wellbeing and care. Her life was dedicated in service to others, with her commitment to serving God invariably at her center. Being a natural born musician, playing the guitar, piano, and singing, came effortlessly. Teaching Sunday School and leading the youth in her parish, she fervently prayed countless lives though many a dark trial. Her devotion to sharing God’s endless love was palpable, while supporting her husband Charles’ ministry of evangelism. America also served as a private duty nurse, extending her loving touch to the lives of those in need. America’s life and legacy was that of an exceptional homemaker, faithful servant, and friend to many. She continuously made a warm and welcoming space for her family and friends to gather, with no expense or effort spared adorning her table with homecooked goodness, never failing to add sweet confections and a dash of laughter. She worked tirelessly to ensure her family was well cared for, fed, celebrated, and loved beyond measure. She was exceedingly devoted to her grandchildren and made each one a priority until her last breath. She was able to witness five living generations of grandchildren, great grandchildren, and great-great grandchildren during her time on earth, with whom her ancestress spirit will live on: Adora Fitzpatrick (Chloe Rhoades – Emmett, Easton, and Eli. Cherith McFarling – Asher and Aurora. Haven Ruiz and Harmony Fitzpatrick). Audra McMurray (David and Charles McMurray). Amanda Byrd (Allison, Evan, and Andrew Morenz). America’s celebration of life and loving legacy will be held on Saturday, November 6, 2021, at 1:00pm at Church of Hope – 2300 Lakewood Ranch Blvd in Sarasota, Florida, with a reception to follow. In lieu of flowers, donations can be made in her honor to Tidewell Hospice: www.tidewellhospice.org.