Grant Chapel African Methodist Episcopal placed brochures at the Tangipahoa Tourism Center

Tangipahoa Tourism Convention Center

The Grant Chapel African Methodist Episcopal Church experienced significant enthusiasm surrounding its activities today. A meeting was convened to organize the placement of brochures at the Tangi Tourism Convention Center, an initiative led by Dr. Antoinette Harrell. The committee’s efforts were warmly received by Carla Tate, President and CEO, and Dana Monistere, Executive Assistant and Operations Manager. The involvement of the Tangi Tourism Convention Center is significant because it provides a platform for visitors who are looking to explore Tangipahoa Parish's rich history, culture, heritage, and cuisine. The church hopes to raise awareness of its cultural and historical significance by placing brochures there.

The brochure will provide comprehensive details about the church's establishment, significant historical milestones, and its enduring role within the community over the years. It will also showcase photographs of the church's architecture and notable past leaders. The founding of the church in 1886 by Rev. Charles Grant Malone and Frank Hughes marked a pivotal moment in the community's history, serving as a spiritual and social center for its members for 139 years. It offered a space for worship, fellowship, and mutual support, developing a strong sense of unity among residents. This foundational role has continued to influence the church's significance and impact within the community over time.

Vera Wheeler
Photo Credit: Dr. Antoinette Harrell

Black churches have historically served as vital hubs for community support, cultural preservation, and

spiritual enrichment. Grant Chapel AME, the first Black church in Tangipahoa Parish to install a historical marker, exemplifies this legacy by preserving its rich history and cultural significance. The church is working to attract tourist and local alike to highlight its historical and cultural significance. 

Pictured from left to right are Dana Monster,  Pete Boykins, Winthrop Walker, Carla Tate, Ella G. Williams, Vera Wheeler, Dr. Antoinette Harrell and Rev. Herman O. Kelly, Jr. 

For more information about the Tangipahoa Parish Convention & Visitors Bureau, please visit the website at tangitourism.com

Tangipahoa Parish Earlier Black Schools

Westside Marching Band

The historical context of education for Black children in the United States is rooted in systemic exclusion and resilience. During slavery, education was denied to Black children, and those who sought to learn often faced severe punishment. In the southern states, laws and social customs actively barred Black children from formal education, whether enslaved or freed. Despite these barriers, many Black churches became crucial spaces for education, serving as makeshift classrooms and providing a safe haven for learning. This period also saw the establishment of a segregated education system, which persisted until the push for integration. During my research on Black churches in Tangipahoa Parish, I discovered the names of several churches and schools. Reconstructing lost records is a complex task, hindered by the absence of primary sources and firsthand accounts. This lack of documentation makes it difficult to verify historical details and develop a comprehensive understanding of past events. While some older individuals possess records, their willingness to share and preserve them for future study remains crucial to this effort. If you know of others schools, please contact me at nurturingourroots@gmail.com.

Ponchatoula Color School
Photo Courtesy: Ella Mae Badon

1897 Lea's High School, Amite, Louisiana, Kind of Instrument D, Book 29,  Page 8

1903 Oak Grove School,  Book D1, Page 204

1908, Blades Reid School,  D1, Page 338

1911, School, Independence, Kind of Instrument D, Book 63, Page 478

1911, Tangipahoa Parish Negro Training School

1942, Amite Color School, Amite, Louisiana

1917, Color Citizens, Kind of Instrument D, Book 81, Page 470

1920, Tangipahoa Color School,  Kind of Instrument D, Book 88, Page 608

Gordon Chapel Church of God in Christ School, Amite, Louisiana 

Tasker AME Zion Church School, Ponchatoula, Louisiana 

Perrin High School, Ponchatoula, Louisiana

Ponchatoula Color School, Ponchatoula, Louisiana 

Greenville Park High School, Hammond, Louisiana 

1915, Hammond Color School, Hammond, Louisiana, Kind of Instrument D, Book 75, 187

1912,  Big Zion School, Roseland, Louisiana, Kind of Instrument, D, Book 64, Page 227, 350

1958, Westside High School, Amite, Louisiana 

1920, Tangipahoa Colored School, Instrument D, Book 88, 607

1896,  St. James African Methodist Episcopal, Kind of Instrument D, Book D1, Page 136

1926, St. James Mission, Kind of Instrument D, Book 109, Page 27

Grant Chapel AME Church is at the forefront of emphasizing the significance of church history.

 

Grant AME Church in Amite, LA
Photo Courtesy of Facebook

Grant Chapel AME Church is at the forefront of emphasizing the significance of church history. The African American church has a rich legacy of spiritual and educational enrichment. Preserving church history enables future generations to comprehend the cultural and spiritual contributions of the church. It cultivates a sense of identity and community and provides invaluable insights into past struggles and achievements. This preservation also ensures that lessons learned and congregation's heritage are not lost over time. Oftentimes, history is lost throughout the decades. There have been instances where churches were burned, and all records were destroyed.  In some cases, records are lost over time by secretaries. To safeguard church history, digitizing records and important documents can provide a secure and easily accessible archive. I suggest conducting oral history interviews with long-standing members to capture personal stories and experiences that contribute to the church's legacy. Establishing a dedicated history committee can also facilitate long-term efforts to document and celebrate the church's historical milestones. The secretary should keep records of funerals, baptisms, weddings, church anniversaries, and other events. 

My experience in genealogical research reveals that African American churches often lack comprehensive records. Implementing a standardized system for record-keeping can greatly enhance the preservation of essential church documents. Providing training sessions for church secretaries and volunteers on effective record management techniques would also prove advantageous. Additionally, partnerships with local historical societies and archives can offer valuable resources and expertise, ensuring that records are carefully maintained and preserved for future generations. In terms of church preservation, the Nurturing Our Roots and Untold History Foundation, LLC., is happy to assist any interested church.

Preserving History Through Historical Markers with Dr. Antoinette Harrell

https://www.spreaker.com/episode/preserving-history-through-historical-markers-with-dr-antoinette-harrell--66836675?fbclid=IwY2xjawLYB-tleHRuA2FlbQIxMQBicmlkETE0Y2ZzTW9Ha3VIbVVKb0lpAR6jDakv6z9aY2xMIVH-vTL3A3rkNK6ECscZQ3xXXMFZHKfLUCkfxCWGZI-8Kw_aem_pbGVF_4pAVihBtc3KcWDLg 

Grant Chapel AME Church member preserved thirty-plus years of church history

Esco Hornsby, Sr.
30 + Years of Church History
Photo Credit: Antoinette Harrell

Grant Chapel African Methodist Episcopal Church committee member Esco Hornsby, Sr., understands the importance of preservation. His wife's extensive funeral program collection was shared with me several months ago now I'm learning of another collection they own.   During one of our historical marker planning meetings, he shared his book of VHS tapes with me and the other committee members.  The Grant Chapel AME church  collection dates back to the late 1980s and early 1990s. I was pleased to see that he had kept them in a dry place. Preserving these tapes captured the rich history and community life of the church during that era. By safeguarding these tapes, future generations can connect with their heritage and appreciate the longstanding traditions of their church community. The church have been a pillar in Amite, Louisiana  since 1886. This year marks 139 years for the church. 

Church history in the African American community is almost extinct in many cases. It was discussed that the tapes should be preserved digitally for future generations and church history archiving.  The African American church in history is almost extinct.  Losing these historical church archives would mean losing a rich tapestry of cultural and spiritual heritage that has shaped communities for generations. The stories, traditions, and music captured in these tapes are invaluable for understanding the struggles and triumphs of African American congregations. Some elders have boxes of church programs, funeral programs, photographs, and other records that is important for documentation of church history. Sometimes, the challenge is getting them to share the materials. 

Among the places genealogists, family historians, and other researchers look for information is the church. Churches often hold a wealth of records that can be invaluable for research. Most church secretaries and leaders will tell you that they do not keep records. Many researchers find it surprising and concerning that the church does not maintain an archive of records. This lack of record-keeping often comes as an unexpected revelation, particularly for genealogists, family historians, and other researchers who rely on such documents for their research and documentation. Preserving these records  are essential for ensuring that future generations can learn from and appreciate this vital part of history.  I hope this post inspire other churches throughout Tangipahoa Parish to do the same for their churches. 

We discussed that the  VHS taped be digitalized for preservation.  Digital preservation will ensure that the church's history is accessible and can be easily shared with a wider audience. It will allow members of the community to revisit past events and celebrations.  Digitizing these tapes protects them from physical degradation, ensuring that this important cultural heritage is not lost to time. 

There are a number of companies that will convert them for a fee. If you do not have an old VHS recorder and other equipment to convert it to digital, you will face a challenge. For assistance, contact familysearch.org or another historical society. I suggest you contact the genealogy department to see if they can assist you. The process can be lengthy and time consuming, so please be patient.  The Nurturing Our Roots and Untold History Foundation, LLC, is willing to help with the preservation process.

Reverend Mack Charles Hurst served as the pastor or Grant Chapel African Methodist Church for twelve years.

Photo Courtesy of
Legacy.com

Rev. Mack Charles Hurst Rev. Mack Charles Hurst was born on July 29, 1940 in Greensburg, Louisiana. He was a retired pastor of the Louisiana Annual Conference of the Eighth Episcopal District of the African Methodist Episcopal Church and a lifelong member of GreaterTurner Chapel AME Church, Greensburg, LA. Rev. Hurst graduated from Helena High School in Greensburg, LA in 1957. He was a 1966 graduate of Southern University and A&M College with a Bachelor of Science degree in Vocational Agricultural Education. He furthered his education as a Kellogg Fellow at North Carolina AT&T University, Graduate School of Economics. After 10 years of employment as County Supervisor with the U.S. Department of Agriculture, Farmers Home Administration, he retired to become a state licensed, commercial and residential building contractor. Rev. Hurst answered the call to preach in July 1988 and served his entire pastoral ministry in the Louisiana Annual Conference. He pastored Gaines Chapel, Tangipahoa; Salter Chapel, Bogalusa; Greater St. James, Hammond; and Grant Chapel, Amite City. He was always faithful to the mission of the AME Church and through his ministry many were converted. His affiliations included Phi Beta Sigma Fraternity, Inc., Prince Hall Freemasonry and he served on the Region 2 Local Workforce Development Board for many years. Rev. Mack Charles Hurst transitioned peacefully to his eternal home on Tuesday, November 10, 2020. 

Benjamin Temple and his son James Family History

For decades the Temple family history has been longstanding in Tangipahoa Parish. Oftentimes genealogy research can take you behind what the places you have always called home. That is the case in the study of Jim Temple's family history. Jim was born to an enslaved woman who name has yet to be found. That is the million dollar question that the Temple family who like to know. One descendant of Jim Temple said that it a branch of our family tree that is missing. Just who was Jim's mother. Using Ancestry to find any information that maybe available online. I found that fifty-three family trees on James "Jim" Temple. Jame's father Benjamin Temple  was born in 1809 in Princeton, Mercer, New Jersey and died in 1877 in Ouachita, Louisiana. According to the 1860 U.S. Federal Census- Slave Schedules, Benjamin had two enslaved people living in his household in Morehouse Louisiana. A female age 50 and as male age 19,

According to the 1850  U.S. Federal Census- Slave Schedules, Benjamin Temple owned four enslaved people in his household. They were living in Ward 1, Morehouse, Louisiana. A female 28, a female age 9, a male age 3, and a male 9/12. It's unfortunate that names for the most part was listed on the slave schedules. 

The Temple Family views any new information as a potential lead for self-discovery. Identifying Jim's mother's name is vital, as it could reveal a hidden branch of their family history, offering insights into ancestral origins and connections. This discovery might also uncover lost details about family traditions, medical history, or cultural heritage. Without her name, a crucial piece of their family's puzzle remains unresolved.

Morehouse Parish Clerk's Office may provide some leads or clues. It's not promising, but it's worth a shot. You can start by visiting their official website to find contact information, such as phone numbers or email addresses. It's also a good idea to call ahead and ask about the specific documents or information you are seeking and whether there are any forms or fees involved. If possible, consider visiting the office in person to speak directly with a clerk who can guide you through the process.

Photographer Donald Davis introduce kids to photography at the Kentwood Branch Library

It can be a rewarding and creative experience to introduce kids to photography. Donald focused on sparking their curiosity rather than overwhelming them with technical details by keeping it simple, fun, and hands-on. During the photography camp held at the Kentwood Branch Library, Donald Davis' mission was to teach kids about photography. As he demonstrated his film camera and digital camera to the kids, he explained the differences between the two. All of them had never seen a camera that needed film. In fact, they had never held a camera before. Their only experience with cameras is on their phones. He taught them how to use the camera and encouraged them to explore their surroundings, capturing moments that caught their attention. The kids were excited to learn and quickly became engaged in the process. They discovered the joy of photography and the stories they could tell through their images. Black and white photograph is a time medium that strips away the distraction of color and allow Donald's views to focus on emotion, composition, and the essence of the moment. His approach is to capture the cultural heartbeat of Tangipahoa Parish j.  Now is the perfect time to introduce youth to film photography, digital photography, and editing. There is a lot of creativity in their young minds. Hosting workshops and photo walks can provide hands-on experience and inspiration. Donald plans to extend the camp to one week next summer and include an exhibit.

Gardening bring me great joy

 

As a child, I lived on the twenty acres of land that my maternal grandmother Emma had purchased in 1896. Long before I was born, the land was used for farming and raising livestock, chickens, and hogs. The land was dotted with a variety of fruit trees. During their season, black walnut and pecan trees provided us with fresh nuts. Reminiscing about picking blackberries for our mother's delicious blackberry dumplings and wishing for those days again. 

My mother often spoke about her father Jasper and farming. When my grandfather Jasper died, I was around two years old so I don't remember him at all. My siblings and I worked in the field with his brother Palmer Harrell, who was also a farmer, during those long hot summer days. We helped him plant and harvest beans, potatoes, corn, and peas. One that is for should we always had fresh vegetables to eat.  Matter of fact we was surrounding by planters and farmers.  Right across the pasture is where my Cousin Doris lived with her husband and family. Her husband Henry Wheat grew all types of vegetables and always sent us something fresh. Yes, that was the old days that have lone been gone. When I'm in my garden I think about them often. 

"Farming instilled in me a deep appreciation for gardening and the cycles of nature. These are traditions that I hold dear to my heart. Each spring season I look forward to planting, and learning various ways of gardening." Expanding my garden each season is my goal.  Each season adding a touch of art and vintage items to give my garden character. The vibrant color from the flowers add beauty to the garden while attracting butterflies, and bees. 

Currently, I'm harvesting mint tea for preservation. Some of the mint is boiled for a glass of fresh delicious tea or a cup of hot tea. A fresh aroma fills the house as the tea boils. My mint teas are all organic. The plants are not treated with pesticides. My peace of mind also comes from knowing what is going into my body. Mint tea has numerous health benefits. It can aid digestion, soothe an upset stomach, and relieve headaches due to its calming properties. Mint tea is rich in antioxidants, which boost the immune system and promote overall well-being. The teas I enjoy most are ginger, peppermint, turmeric, and jasmine. Well, to be honest, I like all teas.

Lydia Butler and heirs sold land to Johnsel Chapel African Methodist Episcopal Zion Church later to become Butler's Chapel AME Zion Church

On the 25th of May, 1894.  Lydia Butler  widow of William Bulter, Cora Banks, wife of Edwards Bank, Nannie Collins, wife of Jacob Collins, and George McNair for Tangipahoa Parish transferred to the trustees of Johnsel Chapel African Methodist Episcopal in Amite City, Louisiana. Johnsel AME Zion was also called "Little Zion."

The land belonged to William Butler before he passed away.

The Womack family preserving syrup making in St. Helena Parish

John Womack, Sr.
Photo Credit: Donald Davis

It's that time of year again. Each year, the Womack family gathers to make their sweet and tasty syrup. Cedric Womack and his father John Womack, Sr., watched James Baker make syrup for years. The master syrup-maker is now his uncle Floyd Womack. Cedric grew up around syrup-making for most of his life. During the long hours spent making syrup, the Womack family and friends gather around the shed, working, talking, laughing, and eating. To go with the freshly made syrup, homemade biscuits can sometimes be a special treat.

"The annual syrup-making event serves not only as a culinary endeavor but also as a celebration of family unity and shared memories. It is a cherished ritual that keeps the Womack legacy alive, bringing everyone together in a joyful and meaningful way."

Since 2020, the Womack family has been making syrup, and they intend to continue the tradition. Meanwhile, Cedric is worried about the increasing age of his father and uncles, and he doesn't want the syrup tradition to disappear. Cedric is considering starting syrup-making workshops for the younger generation, allowing them to learn the craft hands-on. He documents the process through videos or social media, making it appealing and relevant to their interests.

Cedric Womack
Photo Credit: Donald Davis

"I would hate to see this craft lost said, Cedric." There is not as much interest in it among the younger generation said Cedric.  Many young people are drawn to digital technologies and modern hobbies that seem more exciting and relevant to their lives. Growing up, I drove tractors and worked with cows since I was a boy, and I am still interested in farm life today. Baling hay and caring for livestock are some of the skills I learned from my father. This is a culture that should be preserved and I'm committed to doing what I can to preserve it.

Video

 https://youtu.be/WdQB3nMs-Tc?si=UqCSvza49h4yBzGX

Big Zion AME Zion Church fifty years members

Mrs. Emma Picken, was born in 1892 and died in 1976. She is buried in Big Zion Cemetery. Mrs. Idella Cosby was born in 1889. Her time of death is unknown. Mrs. Lilly Harrison Zanders was born in 1891 and died in 1975. She was married to Edward Zanders and they lived in Roseland, Louisiana, according to the 1950 United States Federal Census. Mrs. Rose Curry was born in 1894, she as married to Oscar Curry. 

Source: Amite Genealogy Library

Rev. & Mrs. Hollis Callahan

Rev. Hollis Callahan was the Presiding Elder of Big Zion African Methodist Episcopal Zion Church in 1971.  Big Zion Church is the oldest Black Church in Tangipahoa Parish. Rev. Hollis was born around 1905 in Roseland, Louisiana. He was the son of  Sam and Virginia Callahan. His siblings were; Aluman, Emma, James M., Daniella, Della, Rosetta, Herman, and William according to the 1910 United States Federal Census. Rev. Hollis Callahan died in 1999. He is buried in Big Zion Cemetery.

Source: Dedicatory Service Booklet (1971) Amite Genealogy Library

Life Celebration for Josephine Jackson

Josephine Jackson
Source: Funeral Program
Courtesy of Mrs. Helen Lucky

I was the last sibling of 18 children born to John and Mattie Banks Jackson on August 25, 197. I grew up in Rocky Hill community of Greensburg, LA. My Christian life began at an early age of thirteen at Rocky Hill A.M.E. Church in Greensburg, LA. Later I moved to Grant Chapel A.M.E. in Amite with my one year old daughter Beatrice in 1935.

On this life journey I began my father business by working in the church. I served diligently as an Usher, Choir member, Class leader for Board One and Two. Trustee Board Missionary, Stewardess and Church Delegate to the Annual Conference. I worked because I was saved not because I was trying to get saved.

I was employed my entire life as domestic aide and nanny to the Stern's family children for many generations. The Stern's were prominent entrepreneurs, owners of the former Stern's Department Store of Amite. I traveled throughout the United States with then as a nanny, a preparer of gourmet meals and the management of the home, being exposed to antique furnished and gracious living, etc. I met many people along the way in my life and tried to reflect these things in the way I lived, shared, and served in eloquence and dignity. I also served for thirty-nine years with the Stella Chapter #2 Eastern Star beginning on May 14, 1974. I thank God for the good, bag, ugly, pretty and all he allowed me to be during this life long journey. To God be the Glory.

Celebration of Life of Mrs. Willie Mae Perry "Mae Mae" 2017

Willie Mae Perry
Source: Funeral Program
Courtesy of Mrs. Helen Lucky

Willie Mae Perry's earthly season began on October 22, 1921, when she was born to Alberta Caston and reared by Rev. D.J. Campbell, Sr.  She received her formal education in the Amite County School System in Liberty, Mississippi.  

In May, 1939, she married Louise Wilson, Sr., and the union was blessed with six amazing children. This season started the sowing of foundation and framework of success in which her family members developed and flourished. Willie Mae confessed hope in Christ early in life. As a member of Fluker Chapel Church, she was honored for faithful service rendered as the President of the Usher Board. She also served as missionary.

Willie Mae continued to sow good deeds as a member of the Eastern Star; this distinguished gentlewoman gave inspiration to many through her high ideals, morals, and deep concern for her fellow citizens. On August 25, 1968, she married Jimmie Perry, Sr., and resided in Amite, LA. Later she joined Grant's Chapel A.M.E. Church.

The angels of heaven received Willie Mae on Tuesday, February 7, 2017 at Hood Memorial Hospital. She had won the battle and the season of transition to her heavenly home began. As you say goodbye to Willie Mae, remember her as a Centenarian with magnanimous faith, an unimpeachable reputation for integrity, intelligence, fairness and kindness. She graced the world with her inner and outer beauty that resonated in everything she did. 

Wille Mae leaves to cherish her memories, her six children: Nora, Louis, Jr., (Edna), Delores, Bobbie Jean, Joe (Annie Bell), and Dallas; grandchildren, great grandchildren, great-great grandchildren, and a host of extended family, nieces, nephews, cousins and friends. 

Sister Yvonne Doughty Warren 2010

Yvonne Doughty Warren
Source: Funeral Program
Courtesy of Mrs. Helen Lucky

Yvonne Doughty Warren, the 3rd child out of fifteen, was born May 11, 1937 in St. Helena Parish to the late Herman and Irene Vining Doughty. She departed this life on Monday, May 10, 2010 at 9:05 p.m. at North Oaks Medical Center. She was raised in a Christian home and was taught strong Christian values. She impacted and positively influenced every life that she came into contact with.  

She began her education in St.  Helena Parish Schools and later moved to New Orleans, LA. where she graduated from Booker T. Washington High School. Following graduation she returned to Amite, LA where she met the love of her life Brother Robert Warren. They were united in Holy Matrimony on August 10, 1957 and from this union they were blessed with seven children.

She leaves to cherish here husband Robert Warren; two daughters, Denise Warren Scott (Gaines) of La Porte, Texas and Demetria Warren Bullock (Darrell) of Houston, Texas; five sons, Gistand Robert Earl, Walter (Devonda), Brian (Toy), Quest (Veronica) Warren; Four sisters, Pearlean Alexander, Alma (Jessie) Jackson of Amite, Louisiana; three brother, Elder John ( Louise) Doughty of Amite, Louisiana, Elder Freddie (Carolyn) Doughty and Stanley (Amy) Doughty of La Porte, Texas; 18 grandchildren and six great-grandchildren and six great-grandchildren; one adopted sister; Pastor Shirley Patterson of Mississippi; two sister-in-laws, Janice Doughty of Amite,  Louisiana  and Delores Doughty of Montpelier, Louisiana; two aunts, Ruby Jackson and Viola Vining and a host of nieces, nephews, relatives and friends.

She was preceded in death by her parents Herman and Irene Vining Doughty, six brother, Herman Jr., Esko, Leroy, Samuel, the late Pastor Bert Doughty, Kenneth, one adopted brother Willie Pelt and one adopted sister Sis. Thelma Fisher.

Homegoing Celebration of Sis. Etta Mae Zanders 2021

Etta Mae Zanders
Source: Funeral Program
Courtesy of Mrs. Helen Lucky

On Wednesday, December 22, 2021. Sis Etta Mae Zanders was called home to Glory to rest peacefully with her Heavenly Father at North Oaks Medical Center in Hammond, LA. What a blessing it had been to celebrate 93 years of life. Sis Etta Mae Zanders was born September 11, 1928 to Reba Thomas and George McCoy. She graduated from Big Zion. After graduating from high school. Sis. Etta Mae started working at Ms. Muffs. After many years of working she met the love other life Willie Zanders. On December 16, 1948 they were joined in Holy Matrimony and to their union Gwen Zanders Earlycutt, Jimmy Zanders, Karen Jackson, and Terry Zanders. She leaves to cherish a devoted caring granddaughter Breelyn Jackson, she was always on call. Her one and only sister Adriene, her daughter Terry, her son Jimmy, her son-in-law, Berin Jackson, a sister-in-law Gertrude Williams of New Orleans, Louisiana. Sis. Etta Mae will always be loved and cherished by a host of grands, nieces, cousins.

Sis Etta Mae was baptized at an early age and was faithful and active member of Grant Chapel. She was on the Usher Board, Women's Missionary Society, a stewardess, and a faithful supporter of the YPD. She attended Grant Chapel until her health started declining. She was a faithful tither and giver. She was known to be Reverend Bartley's dancing partner. She wasn't afraid to dance and give God praise.

She was preceded in death byre parents George and Reba McCoy. Her husband Willie Zanders. Her daughters Gwen Earlycutt and Karen Jackson. Her niece Elaine Spears, grandson Nicholas Earlyctt and a host of other family members.

Fred McCoy was a community leader and longtime member of Grant Chapel AME Church, Amite

Fred Phillip McCoy
Source: Funeral Program
Courtesy of Mrs. Helen Lucky

Brother Fred Phillip McCoy, Jr. was born tote late Fred Phillip McCoy and Zadine Robinson McCoy on April 6, 1929, in Amite, Louisiana. He was the ninth child of ten, five sons, and five daughters. He departed this life on February  23, 2006. 

He was united in Holy matrimony to Vernia Garrett on December 24, 1955. To this union, three children were born. He was a dutiful husband and a devoted father. He confessed his love for Christ at a very young age. He was a life long member of Grant Chapel A.M.E. Church in Amite, Louisiana. There he served in many capacities such as church secretary, treasurer, trustee and many other duties. 

 McCoy, a distinguished individual, was a dedicated and long-standing member of Grant Chapel African Methodist Episcopal Church in Louisiana. He honorably served in the U.S. Army during the Korean War era, earning numerous military accolades, including the prestigious Purple Heart. His educational journey began in the public schools of Tangipahoa and Orleans parishes, where he demonstrated exceptional determination. Through a GED program, he advanced directly from the eighth grade to college, bypassing the need to complete high school. He pursued his higher education at Southern University A&M in Baton Rouge, Louisiana.

His professional career was equally remarkable. He began as a public school teacher in the Tangipahoa School District and later assumed the role of principal at Midway Middle School in Natalabany, Louisiana. After a distinguished career spanning 25 years, he retired in 1986. His contributions and achievements were further recognized in February 2005 when he was honored with the NAACP Life Superior Achiever Award, a testament to his enduring impact and dedication to excellence.

He leaves to cherish his memories, a loving devoted wife of 50 years; on son, Roderick Black McCoy, Sr. of Baton Rouge, Louisiana; three daughters, Corine Warren McCoy of Tracy, CA.,  Zandra Michelle McCoy of Amite, LA and Samaria Vandarose McCoy of Mesquite, TX; Johnnie M. McCoy, a niece raised by Fred and Vernia; six grandchildren; Fealty Starlingnad Sherelle Warren of CA, Roderick Jr., Lorenzo and Tracheal McCoy of Baton Rouge, LA; and Chardan McCoy of Amite, LA; three great-grandchildren, a host of nieces, nephews, cousin, other relatives and friends. He was affectionately called "Paw-Paw" by many and T.C.B" by others.

Celebrating the Homegoing of Xavier "Zabo" Smith Jr. 2012

Xavier' Zabo" Smith, Jr., was born to the late Xavier, Sr. "Zab" & Daisy Morris Smith on March 26, 1921. He was educated in the Tangipahoa Parish Public School. He served in the United States Army from 1942 to 1946. He was a veteran of World War II.

Xavier "Zabo" Smith, Jr. 
Source: Funeral Program
Courtesy of Mrs. Helen Lucky

He was united in Holy Matrimony to the late Helen Leonard Smith and of this union three children was born; Sarah Ann, Diane, and Faye Ruth.  Brother Zabo was converted and baptized at an early age at Grant Chapel AME Church in Amite, Louisiana which was the beginning of many years of dedicated service to God. He served on many auxiliaries of the Church. Bo. Zabo served as a Trustee when the new church was built and many years after.

Bro. Zabo attended upholster school and upon completion, he opened his own upholster shop. Later, he went into the monument work until his health began to fail. Hew as a jack of all trades. He loved fishing, hunting, raising animals and baseball. He also loved gardening and growing vegetables. He enjoyed sharing the vegetables with the community.

To cherish his memory: Two daughters, Sarah Ann of Amite, LA., Faye Ruth, Los Angeles, CA; one sister, Yvonne S. Coleman, Amite; 11 grandchildren, 23 great-grandchildren; 19 great-great grandchildren; one special grandson Demond McNealthy; one special nephew, Robert Coleman; a host of nieces, nephews, cousins, relatives, and friends.

He was preserved in death by his wife Helen Leonard Smith, a daughter, Diane Smith Chamber, a son, Ronnie Smith, two grand daughters, Rocquell Smith and Dianna McNealty; his parents Xavier "Zab" & Daisy Morris Smith; three brothers; Glenn, Clarence and Earl Smith; one sister; Dorothy Mae Smith  Himes. 

In Loving Memory of Beverly Ann-Irving-Walls 2018

Beverly Ann Irving-Walls
Source: Funeral Program
Courtesy of Mrs. Helen Lucky

Beverly Ann Irving Walls was born May 17, 1946 to Melvin and Katie Thomas Irving at Lallie Kemp Memorial Hospital in Independence, LA. Beverly attended West Side School in Amite where she graduated in 1964. She continued her education at Southern University where se earned a Bachelors degree in Business.

Affectionally know as "Beverly Ann" she was loved by all of those that knew her. She was great daughter, sister, aunt, and friend. Beverly was know for her kind heart and her fancy l lifestyle. Her family sometimes call here "Mrs. Hollywood." She was definitely the caviar of the family. Shew as raised and until death attended Grants Chapel A.M.E. Zion were she served faithfully. 

Beverly was married to Lynne Walls in the year of 1971. She broke the racial barrier in 1970 when she became the first African American to be employed by the Tangipahoa Assessors Office. She departed there in 1980 then she began to work at the Office of Family Support.

Beverly leaves to cherish here memory her brother, McKinley Irving, Sr. (Barbara) and Norman John Irving both of Amite, La. Although she was the middle child of three, she was raised closely with special cousin that were like sisters and bother, Lizzie Louise Thomas of Baton Rouge, La, Lille Mae Thomas of Los Angeles, California, Carol Walter and Larry Thomas of Amite, La.. She had a host of nieces and nephews that she cared greatly for. Beverly was proceeded in death by her father Melvin Irving and her mother Katie Thomas Irving.

Homegoing Celebration of Bernard Lawson 2016

Bernard Lawson
Source: Funeral Program
Mrs. Helen Lucky

Bernard Lawson quietly departed this life in the early morning hours on Sunday, January 2, 2011 at North Oaks Medical Center. He was born on October 21, 1921 and was 89 years old. Bernard was the only child born to the late Modena Loving Lawson and Booker T. Lawson in Amite,  Louisiana.

He accepts Christ at an early age and was a faithful member of Grant Chapel A.M.E. Church all of his life.  He was known for his dedication and dependability and received great satisfaction from his services to others. Bernard served as Sunday School Superintendent for more than 25 years. He also served as president at one time. In addition to his responsibilities to the Sunday School, he would see to it that the church building was always comfortable for use, regardless of the weather; he would make sure the doors were opened and lock and that the lights would be turned on and off for any activity going on in church.

Bernard served his country for three years in the United States Army and was honorably discharged. He was was employed for a period of time with the Tangiphaoa Parish Health Unit and the Amite Nursing Home. He was also and exemplary volunteer for many years with the Tangipahoa Parish Council on Aging and served willingly in any capacity needed.

Having been a lifelong resident of the Ried's Quarter community, he was known for his cheerful attitude and sweet disposition. He loved to sing and strike harmonies with a tenor voice so distinct that it would stand out in a chorus.

He leaves to cherish his memory several first cousin, of whom Queen V. York served as a caretaker for many years; and a host of other cousin, relatives and friends. His Godchildren, Rev. Kenneth D. York and Deanne Foster, will miss him greatly. He was preceded in death by his parents.