Vivian I. Hart

Vivian Ida Hart nee McClarin (Sunrise) December 2, 1955 – (Sunset) December 7, 2024 Vivian Hart, 69 of Chester, PA, gained her wings on December 7, 2024, surrounded by her family, and loved ones. Vivian who was affectionately known as “Cookie” was born on December 2, 1955, in Philadelphia, PA to Ida Katherine King and Jonathan Nathaniel King Sr. Cookie was raised in Chester, PA. and attended Elementary school at Larkin and Smedley. She then received her High School Diploma at Chester High School in 1974. Her favorite subjects were English and History, she was really intrigued with African American Histories. Throughout her work history, Cookie was employed in various industries such as Macy’s, Check Cashing, and Hospitality services with her family and friends. Cookie had a fulfilling career with Swarthmore College for 35 years working in Environmental Services. She was a member of “Learning for Life” program that consisted of culturally diverse students, staff, and faculty members. There goal was to develop projects that geared towards building community and personal growth. Cookie was able to gain knowledge from other students with different life experiences. She was admired by her colleagues and received many appreciation awards throughout the years. In January 2021, Cookie retired after 35 years of service from Swarthmore College. She was deeply engaged in community outreach efforts to improve the neighborhood safety and assisted with rebuilding a park in her neighborhood. Vivian met Samuel Linwood Hart Sr. in the winter of 1979 at Chocolate City nightclub in Chester, PA. What caught Cookie’s eye was his brown cashmere coat and a 1965 gold Volkswagen beetle with white drop top, she loved that car. Date nights would consist of staying up late night dancing and getting fish sandwiches from Smileys seafood. Cookie married Sam on June 23, 1982, together they built a life and a family with their union. They had 3 children and later were gifted with 8 grandchildren. She enjoyed creating family traditions such as annual family vacations to the beach and dinner at Shoney’s. Cookie and Sam were together for 45 years and married for 42 years. Cookie was the kind of person who always put family first, no matter what. She had a heart full of love and an unshakable devotion to her kids and grandkids. No matter how busy life got, Cookie would drop everything in an instant to be there for them, offering a listening ear, a helping hand, or simply the warmth of her presence. Whether it was a last-minute request or a quiet moment of need, she never hesitated to offer her support. Cookie was a God-fearing woman who belonged to Chester for Christ Baptist Church for many years, under the leadership of Reverend Errol Laurent. She helped many members of her church, community, and family when in need. Over the years, she was faithful dedicated member and was involved in all activities including the Choir, Summer Camp, Bible School, and other events. Some of her fondest moments amongst her children were when she would make fried chicken to perfection, and it got its nickname “chicken for the church” because that is when she made her best fried chicken. Cookie was honored for her dedication by the Black Cultural Center and her name is still hanging at the BCC and Parish Hall. Cookie received additional recognition for her dedicated service to her church community and family. During her final years, despite her health challenges Cookie would walk to Cornerstone Christian Ministries in Chester, PA a short distance from her home to receive the word. Even in her final days and hours, Cookie’s faith did not dimmish; she called unto the lord with a song that she came up with. Throughout Cookies life, she was known for her acts of kindness and generosity. She was a selfless woman and willing to lend a hand without any acknowledgement. She was the gatekeeper to all secrets and trustworthy. Cookie loved to dance and party – she was widely known for her one-of-a-kind dance moves. You could always find her on the dance floor at any family event. She made the best potato salad and deviled eggs. Cookie enjoyed doing crosswords puzzles and playing solitaire and scrabble. She was an avid collector of dolls and greetings cards for every life event. Cookie was loved for her great sense of humor, unique laugh, and her ability to listen. One of Vivian’s heartwarming traditions and biggest achievements was sponsoring families for Christmas known as “Hart of Angels”. She was also known for planning and organizing family events such as 4th of July Gathering, King Family Annual Crab Feast, King Family Annual Christmas Parties, and King Family Annual Church Service. Vivian was preceded in death by her father Jonathan King and her mother Ida King. Her three siblings Ida Gail, Jonathan King (Poopie), and Isaac Jones. She leaves to cherish her memories to her loving husband Samuel Hart Sr., her children Samuel Hart Jr. (Sade), Krystal Bishop (Marvin), and Shannon Hart. Her surviving siblings Sharon King- Pierce (Richard), Carmen Calhoun, Jonathan King Jr. (Risa), and Rodney King (Ava). Her grandchildren Muzzimel, Khaleedah, Aryahn, Samuel III (Sam J), Jaden, Justin, Mason, and Jordyn. Her Surviving Aunts Matriarch Ethel Williams, Dolores McClarin, and Marie McClarin and a host of nieces, nephews, cousins, and friends. Her four closest friends are Bonnie, Donnie, Mary, and Libby.

Vivian I. Hart

December 2, 1955 - December 7, 2024