Port Arthur honors civil rights matriarch Hargie Faye Savoy

Funeral service celebrates the life and legacy of the 96-year-old community leader

Published on Mar. 2, 2026

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Family, friends, and officials from throughout the Port Arthur area gathered at the Bob A. Bowers Civic Center to honor the life of civil rights matriarch Hargie Faye Savoy, who passed away at the age of 96. Savoy was remembered for her unwavering commitment to the community, her faith, and her lifelong pursuit of equality and justice.

Why it matters

Hargie Faye Savoy was a beloved and influential figure in Port Arthur, known for her tireless advocacy for civil rights and her dedication to uplifting the community. Her passing marks the end of an era, but her legacy will continue to inspire and guide the people she touched throughout her remarkable life.

The details

The funeral service featured tributes from a wide range of speakers, including local and state leaders, church members, family, and friends. They shared stories of Savoy's gentle yet powerful presence, her unwavering faith, and her commitment to mentoring and supporting the next generation. Savoy was remembered as a "Proverbs 31 woman" who lived a life of service and love.

  • Hargie Faye Savoy passed away on February 24, 2026, at the age of 96.
  • The funeral service was held on Thursday, February 26, 2026.

The players

Hargie Faye Savoy

A 96-year-old civil rights matriarch and community leader in Port Arthur, Texas, known for her lifelong dedication to equality, justice, and uplifting the local community.

Reverend Randy Vaughn

The officiant who presided over the funeral service and celebrated Savoy's life and legacy.

Taylor Getwood

Savoy's "bonus grandson" who became the youngest Port Arthur ISD school board member and a staunch advocate of the civil rights message espoused by Savoy and Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.

Martin Luther King III

The son of civil rights icon Martin Luther King Jr., who sent a personal message of condolence and tribute to Savoy, acknowledging her role in maintaining his father's legacy.

Geraldine Robinson

A fellow member of Mt. Sinai Baptist Church who praised Savoy's dedication to teaching and mentoring the young people of the congregation.

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What they’re saying

“Today we sit between sorrow and celebration, but if you knew Hargie and her faith, (you would know she is okay), so let's cheer up. Pray with this family and pray for this family, so that God will give them strength and God will be their strength.”

— Reverend Randy Vaughn, Officiant

“Thank you for the life of Hargie Faye Jacobs Savoy — that you allowed her to live among us, serve you and that you gave us a 'Proverbs 31 woman,' to live among us. We thank you for the unconditional love she had for her family, her community and all those she came in contact with.”

— Reverend Randy Vaughn, Officiant

“Anytime Christian Manuel's grandmother was there, the Capitol was just filled with love. We all loved and adored her so much.”

— Aicha Davis, Texas District 109 Representative

“Her love was genuine and from the heart. She dedicated her life to teaching and training the young people of our church. She taught by word and deed...and her faith never wavered.”

— Geraldine Robinson, Mt. Sinai Baptist Church Member

“You have left an imprint on my heart that time will never erase. Her wisdom and her words are a gift I will cherish every day...Her influence will continue to guide us through each generation, and her impact on our lives is everlasting.”

— Willis Mackey, Former Port Arthur ISD Superintendent

What’s next

The Port Arthur community plans to honor Hargie Faye Savoy's legacy through continued advocacy and community service, ensuring her lifelong work for equality and justice lives on.

The takeaway

Hargie Faye Savoy's remarkable life and unwavering commitment to her community, faith, and the civil rights movement left an indelible mark on Port Arthur. Her passing marks the end of an era, but her spirit and the lessons she imparted will continue to inspire and guide the people she touched for generations to come.