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.

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. 

Rev. Vernia Garrett McCoy Obituary 1938-2022

Rev. Vernia Garrett McCoy ws born in Franklinton, La., to Isaac James Garrett, Sr. and Vander Anthony Garrett. She was batptized at Winans United Methodist Church. She was educated in the Washington Parish School System and earned here hight school diploma from Washington Parish Colored School in 1952. She furthered her education at Southern University in Baton Rouge, La., where, she earned a Bachelor of Arts degree in Elementary Education and a Masters of Education in Counselors Education. She taught school for thirty-two years in the Tangipahoa Parish School System. She was united in marriage to Fred McCoy on December 24, 1955. This union was blessed with three of their own children and a niece thy raised as their own child.

She was a faithful, hardworking member of Grants Chapel AME Church. She answered the call to preach and was ordained an Itinerant Elder in the  Eighth Episcopal District in the Louisiana Conference of the African Methodist Episcopal Church. She studies at the International Theological Center and earned a Certificate of Theology. Rev. McCoy was licenses to preach in 1996 and was later appointed to St. James AME Church Airport Rd. She served there until her retirement. After retirement, she returned to Grants Chapel AME Church and continued to serve in many capacities.

Rev. McCoy was a member of Shady Grove Order of Eastern Star #134 PHA. She served as  Chaplin and was a past Worthy Matron. She joined Zeta Phi Beta Sorority Inc., and remained active in the Theta Theta Zeta Chapter. She diligently served with North Oaks Hospice for over 20 years. SH was a m ember of the Golden Tones Choir for the Hammond Recreation Department.

Her beautiful life will be forever cherished in the lives of her children: Roderick McCoy Sr., Zander McCoy and Samaria Rose McCoy; one special daughter, Corriene McCoy; siblings Ella Rose Brookins, Catherine G. Brown and Jerry Garrett (Mary); four grandchildren; five great grandchildren and a host of nieces, nephews, cousins, and friends. 

She was preceded in death by her parents; husband Fred McCoy; siblings; Purvis Garrett, Isaac Garrett, Jr., Willie Dean Brickman, Betty Blackburn, Shirley Garrett Martin, David Garrett, Melvin Garrett, Sr., Benjamin Garrett and Rodney Garrett; and niece she raised as her own, Johnnie Mae McCoy.

In Loving Memories of Mr. Percy Harrison

Percy was born Amite, Louisiana to the late Mr. Obie Harrison and Mrs. Sally L. Harrison on December 3, 1912 and adopted later by the late Mr. Willie Harrison and Mrs. Ella Harrell Harrison. He passed away July 25, 1982 at 4:30 p.m. at Hood's Memorial Hospital in Amite, Louisiana. He was a friendly private individual.  

He leaves to your his passing: two daughters. Mrs. Janice Craig of Amite, Louisiana and Mrs. Lavern Crayton of Dallas, Texas: one son, Mr. Freddie Harrison of Amite, Louisiana: two granddaughter: Miss Charlene Harrison of Amite, Louisiana and Latonya Desha Crayton of Dallas, Texas; two grandson, PVT. Samuel L. Harrison of Germany and Master Dedrian V. Craig of Amite, Louisiana: one daughter-in-law, Mrs. Willie Mae Harrison of Amite, Louisiana: one son-in-law, Mr. Terry Grayton of Dallas, Texas; four sisters, Mrs. Lela Washington, and Mrs. Bell H. Davenport of New Orleans,  Mrs. Mary H. Brown and Mrs. Alma Vernon of Amite, Louisiana; three brothers, Mr. Johnny S. Harrison, Sr. of Oakland, California: Mr. Nathaniel Harrison, Sr. of New Orleans, Louisiana; and Mr. Xavier Smith of Amite, Louisiana: one aunt, Mrs. Bertha Harrell of Chicago, Illnois, and a host of nieces, nephews, other relatives, and friends. 

Source: The Funeral Program of Percy Harrison

The Homegoing Celebration for Willie K. "Pap" Temple

Willie K. Temple was born to the proud parents of Charles Temple and Aline Vining Temple on January 22, 1933 in Amite, Louisiana. He passed away at North Oaks Hospital in Hammond, LA. Willie farmed ten acres of land on the family homestead in Amite. He worked for a short period at Louisiana Power and Lights. He was also employed at Amite Feed and Seed Co-op in Amite, Louisiana. He met and married his sweetheart Helen Johnson Temple. To their union five children was born; for sons: Milton, Edwin, Efrem, Bruce and one daughter: Charlene Temple Jackson.

He leaves to cherish his five children: Milton (Kim), Enid, Oklahoma, Efren, (Anchorage, Alaska) Bruce (Shirell) Edwin, Charlene Temple Jackson from Amite, Louisiana. Eleven grandchildren and eighteen great grandchildren, one sister: Mary Temple Noil, and a host of nieces, nephews, and cousins.

He is preceded in death by both parents: Charles Temple and Aline Vining Temple. Three brothers: Stanley Temple, Ellis Temple and Jacob Temple. Six sisters: Margie Temple Jones, Augustine Temple Atkins, Elosie Temple White, Maude Temple Fox, Caretha Temple Cutrer, Doretha Temple Smith.

Source: Funeral Program for Willie K "Pap" Temple

In Loving Memory of Mrs. Loyola "Lola" Melba Ramsey

On October 9, 2008, the sweet angel of mercy carried away the spirit of our beloved Loyola "Lola" Brumfield Ramsey. She left this temporal world and began her journey to her everlasting home in heaven. She was born on November 3, 1927 to the late Obie and Beulah Brumfield. She confessed her love for Christ at an early age and joined Mt. Olive Baptist Church. She served in many capacities in the church, including the Usher board, Missionary Board, and on the kitchen committee. She and her husband were among the first African Americans in Washington Parish to own and operate a dry cleaning business, cafe, and gas station. As part of her active community service, she assisted in transporting college students to catch the community bus to attend Southeastern Louisiana University.

Lola was united in holy matrimony to the late Charles Herbert Ramsey on June 18, 1943. To their union six children were born. She leave to cherish her memories tow sons, Charles Ramsey, Jr. of Mt. Hermon, Louisiana and Girard (Debra) Ramsey of Franklinton, Louisiana; and three daughters, Brenda Brumfield of Mt. Hermon, Louisiana, Francis (Albert) Magee of Franklinton, Louisiana. and Hilda (Kenneth) Martin of Bogalusa, Louisiana; two sisters Joe Lee Fox of Mt. Hermon, Louisiana, and Erma N. Hill of Kansas City, Missouri; four brothers, Kermit (Alene) Brumfield to Mt. Hermon, Louisiana, Otis (late Dorothy) Brumfield of Tulsa, Oklahoma, Ocie (Ora) Brumfield of Baton Rouge, Louisiana and L. M. James of Mt. Hermon, Louisiana and a beloved sister-in-law, and prayer partner, Ora Dee Brumfield  of Mt. Hermon, Louisiana. Lola legacy of love continues through her 14 grandchildren and 26 great grandchildren, as well as a host of nieces, nephews, relatives and friends. 

Reprint from Patsy Zanders Johnson African American Funeral Program Collection

Richardson Funeral Home, Inc, Amite Donated a Volume of Funeral Books for Preservation

Funeral Records

The secretary for Richardson Funeral Home, Inc., Amite contacted Nurturing Our Roots Media regarding a volume of books that we might be interested in for genealogy research. She explained exactly what was in the books, and Dr. Antoinette Harrell assured her that she would be there in thirty minutes to examine them. 1996 to 2012 is the start and end date of the volume.

The books contain funeral records as well as indexes. Among the information researchers can find are the deceased's name, race, date of birth, date of death, occupation, and parents' names. Furthermore, it indicates whether the mothermaiden name, the funeral date, interment information, whether she was married, and the information's name. 

The books will be part of the Richardson Funeral Home Collection at the Center for Southeast Louisiana Studies.  Parallelto the donation of books, 590 funeral programs will be added to the collection. EBPL Special Collections Department is digitizing the funeral programs and returning the originals to Dr. Antoinette Harrell at the Center for Southeast Louisiana Studies. The Richardson Funeral Home is the first funeral home in the Louisiana Florida Parishes to preserve such records.

http://www.southeastern.edu/acad_research/programs/csls/historical_collections/archival_collections/r_s/richardson_funeral_home/index.html

Thomas Richardson, Sr. of Amite, Louisiana

Thomas Richardson, Sr. 

Thomas Richardson, Sr. was born in Amite, Louisiana on July 4, 1928 to the late Alexander and Melissa Wheat Richardson. He died on October 3, 1971 in Compton Los Angles. He was the first born child to this union. He had had nine siblings: one sister; Helenstine Richardson Williams; eight brothers: Samuel, Walter, Alex, Emmitt, Joseph, Earl, Nathaniel, and Darnell Richardson.

He married his sweetheart Leola Gilbert in 1953 in New Orleans, LA.  They had five children:  Thomas, Jr., Yolanda, Winifred, Malcom, and Russell Richardson.  According to to his Military Draft Card he was eighteen years old and live in Route 1, Box 16 E, Amite, LA.  Thomas was employed by Welton Brumfield in Amite, La. 

He had brown eyes, black hair, dark brown complexion and was 5'2". He listed his father as his next of kin. 

The Celebration the Life of Thomas Richardson

Thomas Richardson, Sr. 

Without warning death pluck a flower from the Richardson's Garden on Sunday October 3, 1971. Thomas was born July 4, 1929/ He was born and reared in Amite, LA. He was married to Leola Gilbert on July 25, 1953. To this union was born five children. To his family he was a loving and faithful striving always to keep them happy and in material comforts of life. He was a faithful husband and a loving father. All the beautiful things in life the most beautiful, is character and he who possesses a beautiful character is worthy of the flowers we give. A beautiful life is the fruit of a beautiful character, he who we memorialize here at this time possessed a beautiful character and lived a beautiful life.

To my mind the highest tribute that can be paid to any man is, that he was loved by his fellows and Christ. Truly  he was a noble gentleman and citizen. He was a hared worker. He sought to help and encourage all who needed such. He was always busy, and alert to find something to do or a word to encourage. 

Thomas leaves to mourn his death, a wife Leola; five children: Thomas, Jr., Yolanda, Winfred, Malcom and Russel of Compton, California, mother and father, Elder. and Mrs. Alex Richardson (Amite), one sister, Mrs. Helestine Williams (Houston, Texas) eight brothers: Walter (Tulsa, Oklahoma), Alex, Jr., (Houston, Texas), Nathaniel and Emmitt (Los Angles, California), Samuel, Earl, Joseph, and Darnell of Amite. A host of relatives and friends. 

Program

Devotion

Mistress of Ceremony.........................................................................................................Helen P. Edwards

Selection...............................................................................................................................................Chorus

Solo.........................................................................................................................................Mr. J.M. Mabry

Talk.................................................................................................................................Mrs. Eunice Rudison

Solo.....................................................................................................................................Mr. Leslie Mabry

Obituary...............................................................................................................................Mr. Leslie Mabry

Acknowledgement of Condolences, Flower, and Telegrams/Mrs. Helen P. Edwards

Solo.........................................................................................................................Miss. Darilyn Richardson

Eulogy..................................................................................................................................Supt. H.H. Evans

Viewing of Cadaver

In charge of arrangements, Richardson Funeral Home and Purple Shield Life Insurance

Reprint: The Funeral Program of Thomas Richardson

Celebration of Life for Allie Ruth Leonard

Allie Ruth Leonard

We pause to pay our tributes of love and reflect on the life and work, of our dear sister. Allie Ruth Leonard. She departed this life quite in her home on Tuesday, June 10, 2003. Born to Sebron Leonard and Ardean Cutrer Leonard on March 3, 1938. She confessed Christ and accepted him as her personal Savior and was baptized at the Mount Canaan Missionary Baptist Church.

The character of her life might be summed sin in these words: she was sincere, she was earnest, and she was loyal. Charm and sweetness radiated from her personality. Allie had the unique quality of a conversationalist. She often telephoned here cousins and friends acting in the capacity of informant or confidant. She acquainted them and with births, illness, deaths and circumstances of other family members and friends whom they knew. In these conversation, being highly opinionated, and respectful for the stance, she would at all times remain unchallenged. As a part other life she was known as the family historian. 

He early educational training began at the Mt. Canaan Elementary School. She graduated from West Side High School in 1956. Allie Ruth continued her education at Grambling State University, earning a B.A. Degree in Education.

She began her teaching career at Burgher Elementary School in Independence, La., and Dillion Memorial in Kentwood, LA., until permanently hired at Mt. Canaan Elementary School as a fourth grade teacher. In 1969, her teaching career continued at Chesbrough, C.M. Fagan, and Amite High School until her retirement in 1996.

Her church affiliations included attending Sunday school each Sunday, singing in the choir, members of Mission Society, working with Vacation Bible School, tutorial program, decorating committee and cake maker for many occasion. Civic and social activities included membership in the Grambling Alumni Association and the Tangipahoa Parish Retired Teachers, Allie Ruth also served as volunteer for numerous Senior Citizens programs. 

She leaves to cherish her memories, one sister: Naomi Johnson (Granderson). one brother: Arthur Sebron Leonard, Sr. (Theresa) of Amite, La., four aunts: Mae Holden Hookfin (Obie) and Evelina Cutrer of Kentwood, La., Bernadine Blackburn and Creola Dyson (Rev. L. Dyson) Franklinton, La., three uncles: William Cuter (Mildred)) of Kentwood, LA., Leo Cutrer and Cleo Cutrer of Franklinton, La., A nephew Donald, the first grandson in her family who lived with her until young adulthood, three god-children: Arthur S. Leonard, Jr., Deidra Leonard, and Brandon H. Sanders, a first cousin, Carolyn Puckett, who catered to her every wish, a host of nieces, nephews, other relatives and friends. She was preceded in death by her parents: Sebron and Ardean Leonard, and one brother: Bernard Milton Leonard.

Richardson Funeral Home, Amite Donated Funeral Programs to Nurturing Our...

Celebrating the Life of Willie Pearl Temple

Willie Pearl Temple

Willie Pearl Temple departed this life gently at home in the early morning hours of September 11, 2010. She was 93, born on May 28, 1917, the only child of the late Corine Lewis, by was raided by her grandparents the the late Rance and Lula Magee in Clifton, Louisiana with her adopted brother Bernistine "Bunch" (Nell) McGee.

She was preceded in death by her loving husband Robert Temple, Sr. Willie Pearl loved children and to this union they were blessed with a son, Ricky (Sharon) Temple. She brought four children from her previous marriage to the late Carl Bridges,  Katherine Roy (late Water Roy, and the late John Jett, Sr.) of Baton Rouge, La., Barbara Smith (the late Clarence Sr.,) of Amite, LA., Robert Earl Bridges of Baltimore, MD. She welcome Robert's three children from his previous marriage to the late Josephine E. Armstrong. They are Cornelius (Mary) of Galveston, TX, Robert Jr., Amite, LA, and Carolyn (late Arthur) Essex of San Antonio, TX. She then adopted Jackie (Willie) Liggins of Memphis, TN. She was preceded in death by one grandson, Clarence Smith, Jr.

She accepted Christ at an early age at Jerusalem Baptist Church in Clifton, LA., and later joined Butler's Chapel A.M.E. Zion Church with her husband Robert. Willie Pearl was a faithful, dedicated member at Butler's until her health failed her. She served as a Deaconess, class leader and on many other clubs and boards. She loved the music of Zion and worked faithfully within the music ministry of the church.

Her second passion was children. She often said that she was so blessed after her adoption of Jackie that she wanted to give other children a good home. She worked with the foster children program for two decades, providing a home for Jamie and Eric Hawthorne, LaErica Jackson, Janice Ross, Marie Jackson, Pandora and James, as well as, others who lived briefly with her.

In earlier years Willie Pearl was employed with Charity Hospital in New Orleans and at the West Side and Amite Elementary Schools. She stayed busy. In later years despite being a senior herself, she work tirelessly at the Council on Aging at her meal site where she served meals and worked in capacity necessary. She also volunteered at God's Storehouse. In 1996 Willie Pearl was elected Queen for the Tangipahoa Council on Aging.

She leaves to cherish her memory her children, sixteen grandchildren, numerous of great grandchildren, a large house of nephews and nieces and other relatives and friends. Her Godchildren, Trichelle Brumfield and Dimetria Evans will miss her greatly. 

Source: Funeral Program of Willie Pearl Temple, 

Contributed by: Richardson Funeral Home, Amite, Louisiana

The Obsequies of Mattie Bush Patrick

Mattie Bush Patrick

On August 1, 1882, in Tangipahoa Parish she was born to the late Mary Temple Bush and Toney Bush, a baby girl given in the name of Mattie Bush. She became a Christian when she was a very young girl and she began her work in the Christian Kingdom.

In the year of 1918 she united in Hoy Matrimony to the late Tom Patrick. As a member of Morgan Chapel Church she worked in many capacities. Her civic duties were that of a leader and a spokesman for her community.

Tired from her journey down here, on Saturday,  May 6, 1978 at 2:00 a.m., the Angels of Heaven came into the hospital and with chilly fingers sealed the lips of Sister Mattie Patrick. Her soul winged its flight from this world of sin, sorrow, and pains, to a place of eternal rest. She leaves to mourn and adopted daughter, Mrs. Mae Helen Ricard of Montpelier, La.,  One sister Mrs. Alice Jennings of Independence, LA., Four brothers, David Bush of Mississippi, Wallace Bush of Amite, La, Daniel Bush of Baton Rouge, LA., and Buster Bush of Ohio, Nieces, Mrs. Helen Edwards, Mrs. Vivian Bush of Amite, Mrs. Elouise White and a host of other nieces, nephews, relatives, and friends.

Interment: Rocky Hill Cemetery

Active Pallbearers: Climon Ricard, Jr., Tom Alton Ricard, Leroy Ricard, Oscar Edwards, Oscar Ricard, Sam Morgan

Honorary Pallbearers: Herman Morgan, Climon Ricard, Sr., Curtis Edwards, Robert Temple

Source: Funeral Program for Mattie Bush Patrick

Richardson Funeral Home of Amite, Louisiana Preserving History Through Funeral Programs

Richardson Funeral Home, Inc. CEO & Staff
Photo Courtesy: Antoinette Harrell

When a loved one passes away in the African American community, writing a funeral program about the person's life is very important in making the final arrangements. Funeral programs became an essential part of funerals in the early 60s. There is a lot of detailed information about the deceased. You will find their full name, birthday, the name of the parents, siblings, spouse, and children if they were married.  If it was a married one woman passed away, her maiden name is documented.  Sometimes it will also state where the person was employed, and the they school attended. It will provide additional information that the death certificated can't offer. 

My mother had a collection of obituaries in her keepsakes. Most of the obituaries in her collection were of family members. Like most older people in the communities, some have a very extensive collection in their homes. As a genealogist, I'm always delighted when someone allows me to look at  and scan their collection. 

Several days ago, the CEO and Owner  of Richardson Funeral Home, Inc., in Amite, Louisiana, called me to informing me that they were cleaning out some boxes at the funeral home and was wondering what to do with all the obituaries. My maternal first cousin, Jo-Ann Lewis Frazier, suggested that they call me to see if I wanted them. Well, you know what my answer was, of course, I will take them off your hand. Earl Scotty Richardson called me to tell me that he would drop them off at my home. 

Funeral Programs

I was thinking about their motto, "We Provide A Little More Than Services, We Care!" I couldn't agree more.  I know for a fact, they do a back-to-school giveaway and other things that they do to services the community, just like Earl's father, Earl. His father Earl did a lot to help people in need. 

In many genealogy seminars, conferences, and workshops, we have discussed how important the role that funeral homes can play in preserving our history though funeral programs. After I create a database of the funeral programs, I will donate them to the  Center For Southeast Louisiana Studies. I recently learned that I can all so add them to the FamilySearch database. Most of the funeral programs are of people who died in Tangipahoa Parish,  St. Helena Parish, and New Orleans, Louisiana.

Richardson Funeral Home, Inc., of Amite, Louisiana, are taking a new approach, and documenting these records. The entire staff made a wise decision in one of the Board of Directors meeting to not throw away these programs. Jo-Ann is a family griot, and she understand the importance of preserving history. She had  supporting my genealogy research in any way that she possibly can. 

Maude Temple Fox Obituary

Maude Temple

On June 22, 1931, Maude Temple was born the 3rd of 6 children to Charlie and Lena Temple in Amite, Louisiana. She graduated from O.W. Dillon High School in Kentwood, Louisiana, then went on to attend Southern University for a few semesters.

Around age 26, she moved to California, where some of her sisters had already migrated too. She brought a home in Compton with her husband R.W. Fox. After their divorce. She and her children moved and settled in Long Beach, CA. where she stayed for the rest of her life. 

During her early employment, Maude worked and cleaning homes, and for many years at the well-known toy company, Mattel. Her children, nieces, and nephews would be very happy and excited to receive the toys that she would get from her work. Had they known how popular and valuable Barbies and Hot Wheels were going to be, they would have taken better care of them.

Maude had a green thumb and took pride in caring for the many plants she kept at her home. She was always eager to give her family and plan gatherings for everyone to get together. One of her favorite places to go was Hometown-Buffet, and she celebrated many birthdays and occasions there. Aunt Maude was so generous with her kindness and thoughtfulness. She had an open door for her family and friends.

She always loved the Lord, and in her later years, she started to follow and adapt to the Seventh Day Adventist teaching and lifestyle. She would often request to say the Lord's Prayers with her guests and visitors. She had unwavering faith and never let go of her hopes and dreams to bless others.

In her 89 years, Maude was a dutiful mother, grandmother, great-grandmothers, and great-great- grandmother. She played a central role in raising  every generation of her  children in her lineage. She was committed to making sure everyone was taken care of until her final days. She was a wonderful and cherish Aunt, Sister, Cousin, and Community member.

Maude is preceded in death by her Mother and Father, Aline and Charles Temple, her siblings Caretha Cutrer. Doretha Smith and Jacob Temple. Her siblings from her father's previous marriage, Margie Jones, Elousie White, Augustine Atkins, Ellis Temple, and Stanley Temple as well. Her three children Larry Temple, Sr., Debrely Lee, and Raychelle Fox.

Maude leaves to Cheris her loving memory, her daughter Desiree Fox her grandchildren, Larry Temple, Jr., Ronshay Mannery, Yasmine Fox, Rahdeese Alcutt, her great-grandchildren Lauren Temple. Daylins Mannery, Larry Temple, Amier Brown, and Harlem Alcutt, and great-grandchild Denism Mannery. She also leaves to cherish her memory, siblings James (W.K.) Temple and Mary Noil, She has many nieces, nephews, family, and friends who will miss her dearly.

Honoring His Legacy "Arthur Harrell

Our  beloved Patriarch, Brother Arthur Harrell, known for his soft spoken voice, gentle, kind, and fun-filled spirit, was called to his eternal rest at 1:08 AM on Thursday, February 20th, 2020 at North Oaks Medial in Hammond, LA.

Brother Arthur Harrell was the fifth of eleven children born to Palmer Harrell and Manilla McCoy Harrell on October 2nd, 1928 in Amite, Louisiana.

Brother Harrell was baptized at an early age and was faithful  and active member of Grant Chapel A.M.E. Church were he serves as Class Leader, Trustee, and various other ministries until his health prevented him form serving any longer.  Brother Arthur Harrell took delight in his work as an employee of the Tangipahoa Parish School System where he was a school bus driver for twenty-one years until his retirement. 

Brother Harrell had an abundance of pride and joy in being a loving and devoted husband to his bride of fifty-one years, as well as a father, grandfather, brother, and uncle. He leaves to mourn, but cherish his strong legacy, four devoted sons, Arthur (Brenda Hickerson of New Orleans, La., Gregory Harrell of Dallas, Tx., Elder Michael (Denesia) Harrell of Amite, La., Dennis (Alessia) Harrell of Kokomo, IN., and a loving daughter, Cheryl  (Frankie) Hampton of Spring, Texas. 

Brother Arthur Harrell's most joyous and fulfilling moments in life were watching his eleven grandchildren and one great-grandchild grow up to be beautiful, happy, and productive kids and adults. 

Paw Paw Harrell will always be loved and cherished by his grands. Shana (Terrance) Fenderson,  and Art Hickerson of New Orleans, La., Michael "MJ" Jr., Delana, Deandria, and Myron Harrell of Amite, La., Palmer and Savannah Harrell of Kokomo, In., and Frankie "Jamel" and Zachary Hampton of Spring Tx., Chanaria Hampton of Nice, Fl, and Sydne' Fenderson of New Orleans, La., The grands will be eternally grateful for the love, patience, and care shown to them by their dotting grandfather. 

Brother Arthur Harrell also leaves his fond memories for two sisters, Audrey Dumones and Bobbie Lois Harrell of Chicago, IL., and one sister-in-law Rosemary Harrell of Hammond, La., one godchild, LaToya Head of Amite, Louisiana., and a host of loving nieces, nephews, other relatives and friends.

Bother Arthur Harrell was man who was always concerned about her others well-being and wanted to make sure he treated everybody right.

Source: Funeral Program for Brother Arthur Harrell