The Theodore & Gladys Chapman Dunn Family Reunion

Diedre Gilmore Perryman and Paulette Gilmore Sims
Organizers of the Dunn Family Reunion

Dunn Family Blanket

Carol won the prize
Photo credit
Walter C. Black, Sr.

The Theodore and Gladys Chapman Dunn Family Reunion

Theodore and Gladys Chapman Dunn

This years Dunn family reunion was organized by Paulette Gilmore Sims, the daughter of the late Charlie Gilmore and Ruby Lee Dunn Gilmore. Paulette and her committee organized a one day event that displayed family photographs, the Dunn History, a slideshow presentation and family fun. This years theme was " We Are Our Brother's Keeper".  The reunion was held as Jellystone Park in Robert, Louisiana. 

Theodore Dunn was born in 1906 in Amite County, Mississippi to Hezekiah and Gertrude Atkins Jackson Dunn. According to the oral history of his oldest son Leon Dunn, Sr.,  his father Theodore moved his family to Kentwood, Louisiana in the 1940s. 

Theodore was killed in a truck accident in 1957 in Easlyville, Louisiana. He was a farmer and logger by occupation. He worked hard to save money to purchase the land that is still in the Dunn family today.  To their union of Theodore and Gladys Dunn, eight children was born; Leon Dunn, Sr., Willie Mae Dunn Williams, Gertrude Dunn Perry,  Gena Mae Dunn Chapman, Will Henry Dunn, Charlie Dunn, Theodore Dunn, and Ruby Lee Dunn Gilmore.  Three of their offsprings has passed away: Gertrude Dunn Perry, Charlie Dunn, and Gena Mae Dunn Chapman.

Leon Dunn, Ruby Lee Dunn Gilmore, Theodore Dunn

Hezekiah Dunn and Gertrude was the parents of Bernice Dunn Hampton, Elouise Dunn Collins, Everlee Dunn Clark, Leon Dunn, Theodore Dunn and Otis Dunn.  Gertrude has children by her first husband. The children ware Rufus Jackson and Laura Jackson Banks according to the Dunn Family tree that was complied in 2009. Hezekiah was known by family members as Hizzie.  Leon said that his father Theodore passed down a lot of oral history to him about the Dunn family. He also said his father Theodore told him that that Hezekiah was of Indian descent. 

Hezekiah is the son of Andrew Dunn, no one knew the name of Hezekiah's mother. I checked U. S. census to see if I could locate her. Andrew was listed as a widower. Hezekiah's brother and sisters were listed as Maggie, Malinda, Mary, and Madison. 

Well over a hundred descendants of Theodore and Gladys attend this years family reunion. Lot of home cooked food, homemade ice cream and prizes was given out.  Everyone was so happy to see each other and to meet new family members. Two of Theodore's brother and sister offsprings also was present.

Elouise Dunn Collis and Odis Dunn offsprings express their desire to learn more about their family history. There were discussions of organizing an upcoming event of all eight branches of Hezekiah and Gertrude Dunn.

Looking at the younger generation work to make this years family reunion a success was beautiful.  Some of the family was reflecting on the days when the family reunions was held in grandma Gladys front yard under the two oak trees in Kentwood, La.

Now the younger generation are stepping up to the task and organizing the family reunions to keep the family together. It was so good to see family respecting and sharing love with each other.

Photo Credits
Walter C. Blacks, Sr.

Leo Collins, Sr. and Edwina Collins of Amite, Louisiana

Mr. Leo and Mrs. Edwina Collins

Source:

The Collection of the Late Coltidle Aaron Zanders and the Late Deloris Levy.

Submitted to Preserving Our History in Tangipahoa &  St. Helena Parishes Blog and Nurturing Our Roots Educational Television Talk  Show by Rev. Raymond Foster, Sr.

Robert and Willie Pearl Temple of Amite, Louisiana

Robert and Willie Pearl Temple

Source:

The Collection of the Late Coltidle Aaron Zanders and the Late Deloris Levy.

Submitted to Preserving Our History in Tangipahoa &  St. Helena Parishes Blog and Nurturing Our Roots Educational Television Talk  Show by Rev. Raymond Foster, Sr.

The Benton Family of Amite, Louisiana

Steve & Rosa Benton

Andre, Pamela, & Gary

Source:

The Collection of the Late Coltidle Aaron Zanders and the Late Deloris Levy.

Submitted to Preserving Our History in Tangipahoa &  St. Helena Parishes Blog and Nurturing Our Roots Educational Television Talk  Show by Rev. Raymond Foster, Sr.

The Passing of Betty Steptoe Belton of Amite, Louisiana

Ms. Betty Steptoe Belton., a resident of Amite, La passed away on September 10, 2015 at Hood Memorial Hospital at the age of 73. Betty was born on January 10, 1942 to Ralph & Myrtis Steptoe. The Family has asked you join them in Honoring her life. Funeral services are scheduled as follows; Visitation: Thursday September 17, 2015 5:00 pm - 8:00 pm at Cross Memorial Funeral Home in Amite, La. Funeral: Friday September 18, 2015 for 11:00 am at Butler's Chapel AME Church in Amite, La. Interment will be at Butler's Cemetery in Amite, LA. Arrangements have been entrusted to Cross Memorial Funeral Home of Amite, La. You may send cards, flowers, and sign the guest register right here from our website www.crossmemorialfuneralhome.co

Joshua Williams of Amite, Louisiana

Joshua Williams standing

A reprint from the Dixie newspaper 1963.  A new wing of Southern University's natural science building. An electron microscope, one of the new research tools now available at Southern, is operated by Dr. James J. Prestage. Looking on is student Joshua Williams of Amite. Microscope was acquired through a grant.

In Memory of the Zanders Family from Amite, Louisiana

Left to Right: Deloris Levy, Robert Zander, Colitide Zander,
Shawn Levy, the lady on the end unknown

I'm extending a warmhearted appreciation for family of Amite, Louisiana for saving and archiving the history, events and photographs of African American people of Amite, Louisiana?  Mrs. Colitidle preserved the history that we must never forget. After she passed away her daughter the late Deloris Levy inherited the collections and after she passed away.

It was passed on to Rev. Raymond Foster, Sr., and I'm truly humbled that he allowed me to examine and analyze the collections and help get it ready to be archived at Southeastern Louisiana University for the further studies on the history of African American people of the Florida Parishes. We're not doing enough to preserve our enriched history too pass down to the next generation. We're losing property, intellectual properties, family heirlooms, land and other value family resources due to the lack of knowledge and sometime the lack of caring.

I know that Mrs. Colitidle and Ms. Deloris would be happy to know that the collection is being shared and preserved for future studies, thesis, dissertations and other publications to be the lives and studies of African American people of Tangipahoa and St. Helena Parishes.

Many African American people in the Amite community can recall sweet and lasting memories of Mrs. Coltitlde. Her love for flowers and serving her community was her passion. Preserving our history and educating the youth about their rich history and heritage should be something we all sured pass on. It can help to restore and enhance their self-esteem and self-awareness.  For more information about the pioneers and people who shaped our lives and community, please continue to follow Preserving Our History in Tangiphaoa and St. Helena Parishes.


Links

http://www.southeastern.edu/acad_research/programs/csls/historical_collections/archival_collections/h_k/harrell_collection.html

A Nineteen or Early Twenty Century Photograph

Source:

The Collection of the Late Coltidle Aaron Zanders and the Late Deloris Levy.

Submitted to Preserving Our History in Tangipahoa &  St. Helena Parishes Blog and Nurturing Our Roots Educational Television Talk  Show by Rev. Raymond Foster, Sr.

Mrs. Lillie Daniels and Martha James of Amite, Louisiana

Queen Mothers
Lillie Daniels and Martha James

This is one of my favorite pictures here. I was wondering if this is Walter Daniels grandmother or relations? I know Queen Mother Martha James was the daughter of the founders of Butler Chapel A.M.E. Zion Church in Amite, Louisiana.

If you know which one is which, please let me know.

Source:

The Collection of the Late Coltidle Aaron Zanders and the Late Deloris Levy.

Submitted to Preserving Our History in Tangipahoa &  St. Helena Parishes Blog and Nurturing Our Roots Educational Television Talk  Show by Rev. Raymond Foster, Sr.

The Cafeteria Ladies at Westside Middle School

Mrs. Maggie Dudley,  Mrs. Coltidle Aaron Zanders

I know that's  Ms. Billie Holmes on the left end.  The names that is on the photograph cover is Elnora Perry, Mary Cumpton, and Doretha O'Brien. If you attended Westside Middle School in Amite, Louisiana, and you know these ladies, I need your help to tell me who is who.  If you have any photographs that you would like to share with Preserving Our History in Tangiphaoa and St. Helena Parish, Louisiana. Please contact me by email at afrigenah@yahoo.com or you may call me at 504.858.4658. 

Source:

The Collection of the Late Coltidle Aaron Zanders and the Late Deloris Levy.

Submitted to Preserving Our History in Tangipahoa &  St. Helena Parishes Blog and Nurturing Our Roots Educational Television Talk  Show by Rev. Raymond Foster, Sr.

The Finn Family of Amite, Louisiana

Melvin & Ora Finn

Samaria, Shirra, Tigia

Source:
The Collection of the Late Coltidle Aaron Zanders.
Submitted to Nurturing Our Roots Blog and Television Talk Show by
Rev. Raymond Foster, Sr.

Artis and Rebecca Dillon of Amite, Louisiana

Artis and Rebecca Dillon


Source:
The Collection of the Late Coltidle Aaron Zanders.
Submitted to Nurturing Our Roots Blog and Television Talk Show by
Rev. Raymond Foster, Sr.

The Late Sister Martha James of Butler A.M.E. Zion Church

Sis. Martha James

When the Butler A.M.E. Zion  Church under the leadership of Rev. Francis Williams complied their Church Director in 1978, Sis. Martha James was 106 years old. She was a direct descendant of the founders of Butler A.M.E.  Zion Church.

She worked faithfully in many departments in the church since her early youth and and was president of the Deaconess Board.

Notes:

Source: The Collection of the late Coltidle Aaron Zanders and the late Deloris Levy. Submitted by Rev. Raymond Foster, Sr.

Funeral Service for the Late Mr. Johnnie Robinson

Johnnie Robinson

Johnnie Robinson was July 30, 1920 to the late Mr. Horace Robinson and Mrs. Virgie Robinson in Amite, LA. Departed this life on Thursday, November 28, 1974 at approximately 9:30 a.m., at his home, 410 East Palmetto Street.

He united with and was and active member of Butler's Chapel A.M.E. Church. He leaves to mourn his demise, a wife, one son, mother, four aunts, one uncle, and ha host of other relatives and friends.

Johnnie will be missed by all who knew him. Sleep on and take your rest. We all love you, but God love you best.

Notes: Active Pallbearers Members of Tangipahoa Parish Sheriff's Department: Rogers Dangerfield, P. West, Floyd Miller, Freddie Benton, Julus Quinn, Melvin Finn, Charles Dixon, Charlie Muse, Herbert Williams, Otis Brumfield, Leon Dunn, L. J. Hurst. Freddie Johnson.


Source: The obituary collection of the late Coltidle Aaron Zanders and the late Delores Levy. Submitted by Rev. Raymond Foster, Sr.

In Loving Memory of Green Zanders

Green Zanders

In writing the "Obituary" of Mr. Green Zanders one has to think in terms of memories. He was born in Amite, Louisiana on October 18,1889. He came to Los Angeles, California on January 18, 1920. He joined the Hamilton Methodist Episcopal Church on 18th and Naomi, under the pastorate of the late Dr. S.M. Beane. As the church grew in membership, he often mentioned his being the the 17th member of the church.

He married his first wife for 46 years and married to his second wife for18 years. Both of his wive have departed from him in death. On the memories that he cherish most was his 92nd birthday party which was given by Miss Ruth Goin. The climax of the party was the reading and presentations by pastor Willie Forman---congratulation from President Carter and Mrs. Jimmy Carter,  Mayor Tom Bradley, State Public Utilities Commissioner Leonard M. Grimes, Jr., whose parents lived in his home when Leonard Jr., was 13 months old. Mr. Zanders served on the Usher, Trustee and Steward Boards, financial committee and many other departments of the church.  Mr. Zander served and supported his church well. He endured his failing health and suffering in praises and thanksgiving to God for all the many blessing that has been his throughout his life.

His final words to the dear friend of the family, Ms. Shirlene Orange were " I am dying, as I float, I feel the love and peace of Christ in my heart. He departed from his life on Thursday, May 17, 1984. If he could speak he would say Death was a blessing because he was ready when it would come.

He is survived by his dear nephew and wife, Mr. and Mrs. George E. Tate; nephew, Robert Sanders of Amite, La; his niece, Bernice Valley; three great nieces; three great, great nephews and one great, great niece and a host of many friend and neighbors, especially the member of Hamilton.

His favorite hymn " Bound For The Promised Land" and his favorite scripture, "The Twenty-Third Psalms".

The Obsequies of Sis. Emma Cade Tate

Emma Cade Tate

The Great and Merciful Father in His Wisdom and power on July 3, 1972 remove Sis. Emma Tate from the trouble of this world. She was born December 12, 1903 in Tangiphaoa Parish to the late Mr. and Mrs. Oscar Cade.

Sister Tate was married to the late Aldophus Tate and lived in Amite where she was united with Butler Chapel. She served as Vice-President of the Deaconess Board until her illness prevented further services.

She leaves to mourn her loss; on daughter, Gracie Bryant of New Orleans, 2 brothers in Jim Cade of Rosalind and Charlie Cade of Kenner, one sister, Cinderella Davis of Baton Rouge, and many nieces, nephews, relatives, and friends.

Notes: Sis Emma Cade Tate funeral was held on Saturday, July 8, 1972 at Butler Chapel A.M.E. Zion Church.

Religious Services for the late Mrs. Ida B. Temple

Mrs. Ida B. Temple

On March 12, 1880 born to Benton and Mary Anne Butler was a daughter, Ida. She attended the public schools of St. Helena Parish and completed high school in Magnolia, Mississippi. She also attended high school in Magnolia, Mississippi. She also attended Straight University in New Orleans.

On May 14, 1972 at 4:00 p.m. at Hood Memorial Hospital. The Death Angel visited our community and summoned a wonderful mother. Sunday School teacher for over 70 years, for 40 years was Public School teacher of St. Helena and Tangipahoa Parishes, a neighbor and above all, a Saint. Mrs. Temple was a person with a wealth of Scriptorial Wisdom and intellectual knowledge. She served her Lord and her people with a beautiful christian life. Her influence will always be felt in the lives of those she taught and served.

Her life was full of good works in the church. She was founder of the Women's Council which was dear to her. During her career as a teacher, she met and married the late John Temple. to this union was born three sons who were given educational     and religious training.  She leaves her three sons, Felton of New Orleans, Oscar of Houston, Texas and Collis of Kentwood, six nieces, four nephews, ten grandchildren, nine great grandchildren and a host of other relatives and friends. A life lived as Mrs. Temple's cannot die, but will live in the hearts and memories o those who knew and loved her.

Notes: Mrs. Ida Butler Temple funeral services was held on May 17, 1972 at Gordon Chapel Church of God In Christ. Rev. Alex Richardson, Pastor.

This obituary was part of the obituary collection of the late Coltidle Aaron Zanders and the late Deloris Levy. Submitted by Rev. Raymond Foster.

Order of Service

Pallbearers

The Funeral Services for Sis. Clara Hollins Watts

Sis.  Clara Hollins Watts

Sis. Clara was born to the late Jerry Hollins and Vinnie Hollins in Amite, LA. on July 1, 1889. She as united in marriage to the late Ed Watts, Sr., To this union eight children were born.

Sister Watts was converted at an early age and became a member of Grant Chapel A.M.E. Church where she served until she was unable to attend. She took care of her obligation to God, her pastor, and to her church until death.

Two brothers Joe and Jack Hollins and one sister, Bertha Carter preceded her in death. She leaves to mourn her passing: Celeste Wagner, Fannie Muse and Ruth Hart of Amite, Louisiana; Clara Belle White of Ponchatoula, La.; Earl Watts of Amite, LA.; Adolph Watts of Ponchatoula, La.; Ed, Jr., of Petersburg, VA.; A.C. of Chicago, ILL.; a host of grandchildren, great grandchildren, nieces, nephews, relatives and friends.

Notes: Sis. Clara Hollins Watts funeral services were held on Saturday, October 20, 1984 at Grant Chapel A.M.E. Church. Rev David Bowles, Jr., Pastor

The Obsequies of Mrs. Mamie Bush Evans

Mrs. Mamie Bush Evans was born in Amite, Louisiana on August 28, 1935. She was the third daughter of Mr. and Mrs. Tony Bush, Jr.

Mamie Bush Evans

The words of the great perfect and up-right man, Job says, "The Lord giveth," August 28, 1935 " Little Mamie" was given to Mr. Tony Bush, Jr. and Mrs. Mamie Jackson Bush. Little Mamie grew up in this parish. She was a "quiet individual."

She accepted Holiness and united with Rosalind Church of God In Christ in Roseland, Louisiana. She received her education in Public Schools of Tangipahoa Parish. She graduated from Southern University in Baton Rouge, Louisiana with a Bachelor of Arts Degree.

Mrs. Evans majored in education and taught school in Tangipahoa Parish School System. She was married to Mr. Willie Evans, Jr., and to this union three children was born. The Lord taketh-about 9:30 A.M. Saturday, December 20, 1969 Mrs. Evans answered the call to dwell with Him eternally.

She leaves to mourn, a husband, Willie Evans, Jr., two sons Reginald and Dwight, one daughter, Demetra, her parents Mr. and Mrs. Tony Bush, Jr., Four sisters, Mrs. Helen A. Wilbon of Amite, LA., Mrs. Marion Watley of Bernice, La., Mrs. Amanda Boykins of New Orleans, La., Mrs. Juanita Burton of Baton Rouge, LA., Two brothers, Oscar Bush of Dallas, Texas and Rudolph Bush of New Orleans, LA., and a host of relatives and friends.

Notes: Mrs. Mamie Bush Evans was funeral service was held on Tuesday, December 23, 1969 at Roseland Church of God In Christ. Bishop W.K. Gordon, D.D. Officiating

The obituary collection of the late Deloris Levy and the late Coltidle Aaron Zanders. Submitted by Rev. Raymond Foster, Sr.

The Obsequies of Mattie M. Foster Wren

Mattie  M. Foster Wren

Mattie Foster Wren, was born February 18, 1942 in New Orleans, Louisiana, to Celestine and David Foster. She was departed this life April 15, 1972. She was 30 years and 2 months old. She was a member of Gordon Chapel Church until her death.

In 1961 Mattie was married to Walter Wren, Jr. To this union seven children were born: Rodney Calvin, Walter III, Tammy, Tandra, Michele, Nicole and Tiffany Wren.

She is survived by her husband, seven children; mother, Mrs. Celestine Foster; father, Mr. David Foster; grandparents, Mr. and Mrs. Alex Montgmery, St.; six sisters, Ernestine, Gloriasteen, Elois, Cynthia, Yolanda and Lisa; nine brothers; Larry, Raymond, Danny, Jonathan, Joathan, Jessie, Michael, Bolivar and Duglas Warren. A host of nieces, nephews, aunts, uncles, relatives and friends.

Notes: Mattie M. Foster Wren funeral services was held on April 19, 1972 at Gordon Chapel Church in Amite, Louisiana. Rev. Alexander Richardson, Minister. Submitted by: Rev. Raymond Foster, Sr.
From the obituary collection of the late Deloris Levy and her mother the late Coltidle Aaron Zanders.

The Obsequies of Mrs. Carrie Belle Bridges

Mrs. Carrie Belle Bridges

The angel of death has again visited our home and taken from among us, our beloved mother. Mrs. Carrie Belle Bridges. She was born January 1, 1910, departed this life August 1, 1972. at 5:20  p.m., at the age of sixty-two. She was unite with Little Bethel Baptist Church under the leadership of Rev. Willard Vernon.

She remained a faithful member until death. She was married to Mr. Willie Bridges. To this union seven children were born. Mrs. Willie Mae Peeples, Hattie Louise Davis, Mrs. Manda Hilton, Annie Belle Williams, Mr. Walter Bridges all of New Orleans, La., Mr. Cleo Bridges of Amite, La., Mr. Leo Bridges of St. Rose, La., She leaves to mourn her passing, a husband, seven children, four sisters, two  brothers, twenty seven grandchildren, eight great grandchildren and a host of relatives and friends.

And God shall wipe away all tears and there shall be no more death, neither sorrow, nor crying, neither shall there be anymore pain for the former things are passed away. --Revelation 21-4

Notes:  The obituary collection of the late Deloris Levy.  Submitted by Rev. Raymond Foster, Sr.

The Obituary of Sgt. Charles Edward Wells

Sgt. Charles Edward Wells

Sgt. Charles Edward Wells was born on August 19, 1931 in Amite County, Mississippi and died in Vietnam on October 22, 1969.

He was the son of Mr. Louis Wells and Mrs. Pearlie Mae Marcelus Wells, the husband of Mrs. Ivia Lee Wells. He joined the U.S. Army at the age of 17, and served continuously for 21 years.

He united with the Little Bethel Baptist Church at an early age during the pastorate of Rev. James Vernon. He leaves to mourn his passing his wife, nine children, mother, father, one sister, grandmother, and a host of other relatives and friends.

Notes:

Sgt. Charles Edward Wells funeral was held on Saturday, November 1, 1969 at Little Bethel Baptist Church in Amite, Louisiana. The services was officiated by Rev. Vernon, Pastor.

The Obituary of Sis. Ella Miller Burton Leonard

Ella Miller Leonard

Sis. Ella Miller Leonard was born to the late Henry and Leath Taplin Miller on June 11, 1904 in Mississippi. She was converted at an early age and grew up in the Church of God in Christ in Amite, Louisiana.

She was married to Bro. Charlie Burton, Amite, Louisiana. To this union one child was born. Later she married Bro. George Leonard, Sr., she move to our community  and united with the Mt. Canaan Baptist Church. Here she served in every available capacity wholeheartedly and well. She was a member of the Senior Mission. Senior Choir, and served as Matron of the Junior Choir was long as her health allowed.

Mama Ella was a lovable person. She was person all emulate. She never complained and was a person everyone choose to have as a friend and willing to be a friend to all. She never pushed herself forward, but always stayed in the background, working and praying, doing whatever she was called upon to do the Master.

Today we are silent to pay tribute to a person who has lived among us as " one who went about doing good" and who always put Christ first in everything she did.

She departed this life Sunday, February 15, 1970. She leaves to mourn-her husband, Mr. George Leonard, Sr., one daugther, Mrs. Henriette Vernon, three stepdaughters--Mrs. Bonnie Jackson, Mrs. Mary L. Blevins, and Mrs. Sylvia M. Dillon; one stepson, Mr. George Leonard, Jr; three sisters-Mrs Ruth Miller, Mrs. Lucinda Fields and Mrs. Lillie Cryer; two brothers--Mr. Samuel Miller, Mrs. Chellis Miller; five grandchildren; one great grandchild and a host of relatives and friends.

Source: The Obituary Collection of  late Clotidle Aaron Zanders and  late Deloris Levy.  A special thanks to Pastor Raymond Foster of Amite, Louisiana for sharing the collection with Antoinette Harrell.