GREAT SOUTHERN WOMEN: SARAH CANNON

Well, who is this? Does the word "how-DEE" mean anything? A $1.98 price tag? Sarah Ophelia Colley was one of my most favorite people. Most people know her as Minnie Pearl. She was born on Oct. 25, 1912 in Centerville, TN, and died on March 4, 1996. She was born into an affluent family, graduated from Ward-Belmont College and terrified her family by going into show business. Sarah met the person she was to base her character on in Bailyton, Alabama (wouldn't you know!). She became a member of The Grand Old Opry in 1940 (and remained a member until her death) but the Opry was originally afraid that country people would be affronted by Minnie Pearl. Everyone came to view her as a good friend. Minnie was also a member of the HeeHaw cast from 1969 until 1991. She eventually married Henry Cannon. They never had any children. Her importance lies in the fact that she was a trailblazer for rural-type humorists. Many who followed her example included Jerry Clower and Jeff Foxworthy. She was successfully treated for breast cancer in 1990. She suffered a stroke in 1991 and died in 1996.
More information?: www.minniepearl.com
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/minnie_pearl