Mrs. Leona Spears of St. Helena Parish, Louisiana

Mrs. Leona Spears

Leona Spears was born on November 29, 1883. " That's the day I was born, " smiles Rocky Hill resident Leona Spears. In her life Mrs. Spears has witnessed the dawn of automobile, running water, airplanes, indoor plumbing and electricity. "I can remember when their wasn't a flick of electricity anywhere in New Orleans.

Tucked in her favorite rocker, legs bundled under a quilt and warmed by a crackling fire, Mrs. Spears chats. " I liked working the field with the mule. That was probably my most favorite thing to do on the farm.

"Ole Sam was the best mule we ever had. I guess we had 5 or 6 one that was with us for a spell. But Ole' Sam was the best 'cause he listened. He'd go slow and when you need him to. And he'd gee and haw like I wanted him to."

Up until a half dozen years ago Mrs. Spears still plowed a little with a mule. A step or two from her back door is her garden or 'patch' as she called it. Her patch is about a quarter acre. "I hoe it all myself, " she says proudly. I lived this because I alway ate good. I eat plenty of vegetables and greens and good meat. People don't eat right. They are too much in a hurry and they eat that food somebody else fixed for them. Better you eat food you fixed yourself.

One of the crops Mrs. Spear and her family raised was rice. "Yeah, rice. There used to be a bunch of us growing rice back then. But it played out. I don't remember when."

"I didn't much want it then. But everybody said we needed it. I'd just as soon it never came around. But they got us hooked now, so I guess we stuck with it. Seventy years ago Mrs. Spears played the harmonica. "My daddy gave me one for Christmas." Ever since then music has been a big part of her life. "I've been playing and singing in the church choir for most of my life." She taught herself to play the piano, accordion and Jew's harp.

"I just love making music. It makes me feel good. And I ain't lost nothing she smiles. Mrs. Spears can remember back when Indians still dwelled in the area. " They camp right back there." She points to the northeast. "Daddy didn't let us fool with them too much." We'd see them in the woods when we collected firewood and hunted up our pigs. She can't recall when or why the Indian left.

"Things ain't that bad for most folks today. But I do think that it was better for everybody when I was a chap. People for everybody when I was a chap. People were nicer and shared things more. People like to have you in their kitchen. And if I had too much of this or that I'd give you some. And you'd do the same for me. Today, you never know who is your friend and who is looking to get something from you.

Source: Tangipahoa's Montly Magazine/ December 5 & 6, 1984
Article written by Charley Vance

Martha James of Amite, Louisiana

The Amite Chapter of the Senior Citizens honored 105 year-old Martha James Friday with a party at the new Senior Citizen headquarters in the depot. Cake and punch were served to those attending and songs and expressions of good will were made. The party was organized by Mrs. Eva Anthony, president of the Amite Chapter of the Senior Citizens' Club.

Aunt Martha, as she is affectionately known, was born 105 years ago and has lived all of her life in Amite. She was born a Butler and married Frank Jame, a former employee of the Gullet Cotton Gin Company. She had two children, Johnny and Robert. What is her secret for living so long? I don't have any secret for living so long?

I don't have any secret," she said. "The Bible says to honor your father and mother so that their days may be long. I have always honored old people and this must be God's way of blessing me."

Source: Tangi Talk. Amite, LA.. Wed., Sept 1, 1976

The Late Mrs. Audrey Robinson Curry

Audrey Robinson Curry

Mrs. Audrey Robinson Curry, the wife of Mr. George Curry, was born in Amite, Louisiana, June 21, 1918, the daughter of the late Horace and Virgie Pitts Robinson.

Mrs. Curry was employed by the Tangipahoa Parish School System, where she served as third grade teacher at Westside High School.

She received her formal training at Amite, Rosenwald, Dillon High and Grambling College. She was a member of the Tangipahoa Education Association.

Mrs. Curry was active in civic, social and religious activities. Her heart went out to Zeta Phi Beta and was an example of "Finer" womanhood which Zeta stands.

As a young woman, Audrey, as most of her friends knew her, and church members knew her, was a lovable and adorable person, given her time, talent and energy to her church activities. She was a devoted member of Grant's Chapel A.M.E. Church, where she spent most of her life working in various departments of the church. Mrs. Curry was a leader for the Y.P.W.W., Vice District President of Layman League, and did a great deal of mission work.

After Audrey's marriage to Mr. Curry, she resided in New Orleans, Louisiana and lived happily until her demise. Yet,  she and her mother were able to spend many pleasant hours together and with their friends.

She slipped away quietly in the still of the morning on Monday, September 30, 1968. Surviving Mrs. Curry are; are husband, Mr. George Curry, New Orleans, Louisiana, mother, Mrs. Vergie Robinson; brother, Mr. Johnnie Robinson, and three sister-in-laws, Mrs. Helen Robinson of Amite, La; six aunts, three uncles; one nephew and a host of other relatives.

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.

In Loving Memories of Delores B. McCormick

Delores Bush McCormick, 31 of 5114 Brooklyn was born June 3, 1943 in Independence, Louisiana. She passed away March 30, 1975. She was united in marriage to Mr. Samuel McCormick on June 1, 1969.

She was employed by the Kansas City Public School District, where she worked at Pasco High School since 1969 as a Vocational Business Teacher.

She was a member of Leonard Chapel A.M.E. Church in Amite, Louisiana. She later joined the Bethel A.M.E. Church on February 22, 1970, where she was a member of the Voices of Bethel Choir. She was member of Celestial Chapter No. 102, Order of Eastern Star, where she held a the post of Past Secretary;

She is survived by her husband, Mr. Samuel McCormick: her mother, Mrs. Vallera Bush; six brothers, Mrs. Charlie Bush, Jr., Mrs. Ray Bush., Mr. Hollis Bush, Sr., Mr. Harold Bush, Mr. George Bush, and the Mr. Amos Bush; and a host of other relatives and friends.

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.

Shirley C. Temple Candidate for State Representative 1971

While reading the push card of candidate Shirley C. Temple for State Representative in 1971. It brings to mind,  today election with Osa Williams and Janice Holland running for the same seat today.

Shirley C. Temple was the wife of Collis Temple, Sr. of Tangipahoa Parish, Louisiana.

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.

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.

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.

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 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.