Mrs. Vera Buckhalter Womack of Kentwood, Louisiana

Mrs. Vera Womack

Today I met a beautiful woman named Mrs. Vera Buckhalter Womack in Kentwood, Louisiana., She told me that she just celebrated her 99th birthday. All I could do was just look at   her. My eyes couldn't believe that the lady I was looking at just made 99 years old.

We sat and talked for a long time. I went to talk with her about Tangipahoa Parish Training School in Kentwood. She told me about her school days and how she walked one mile to get to school. She recalled how the boys would make a fire in the old pot belly stove to warm up the class. Mrs. Womack left school after she couldn't keep up due to the fact that she had to miss too many days to work in the field picking cotton, strawberries, and other agricultural produce. 

Mrs. Womack has lived to see five generations. She is one of seven children born to the union of her Mr. Fred and Mrs. Emma Buckhalter. After she left school to get married, she and her husband opened the only African American store in the community. She started off by selling snowballs and candy and from there she and her husband added other items to the store. She operated the store up until her 80s. The Womack's are a pillar in the Kentwood community. 

Emma Johnson Buckhalter

I enjoyed looking at all the family photographs on her walls and the many beautiful bouquets of roses and flowers she received from her family and loved ones. We both felt like we knew each other all our lives.

According to Mrs. Womack her mother, Mrs. Emma Buckhalter was the first African American teacher in Kentwood.  She taught at Sweet Home Baptist Church when the school was held in at the church.  Emma was born around 1883 in Tangipahoa Parish. Her father Fred was born in St. Helena Parish in 1886. In 1910 the family was living at  the Amos Kent Lbr & Brick Co Quarters. He is listed as a mulatto according to the 1910 United States Federal Census.

She proudly talked about her late husband's determination to overcome being an amputee and how I remind her of him. "He never gave up, he made all the kitchen cabinets and other woodwork," said Mrs. Vera. 

Mrs. Womack was an entrepreneur at heart. She was a hairdresser by trade as well. She went back to the only African American beauty school in Kentwood and earned her certification to become a licensed cosmetologist in 1964. She proudly displays her diploma on her wall. When she started school she told the owner that she didn't have a certification but she knew how to do hair. The owner told Mrs. Womack that she groomed and styled hair better than some women who were licensed.  She was determined to do what it took to help support her family. 

I really enjoyed sitting and talking with her. I hope to live to see her age and most importantly I would like to be in good health like her. Mrs. Vera out lived all her of her sibling. But the memories of her deceased loved one will forever live in her heart. 

Odile Beauty School
Mrs. Vera B. Womack

St. Helena Indians 1962

Wallace Smith, James Hart, Thomas Dudley, Hollis Jackson, Charlie Addison, Jesse Stewart, Vernell Williams, Billy Johnson, Thomas J. Howard, James Ramsey, Sam Green, Luther Hall, Emmitt Kendrick, Lawerence Chaney, Henry Crier, Edgar Brumfield, Silar Geralds, Tom Graves, Chester George, Adolphus Dickerson, James Atkins, Earnest Edwards, George Rankins, Ray Pitts, Dennis Scott, Edward Cornish, George Muse, Mack Jackson, Alfred Reynolds, Alcee Musem Roy Dudley.

Coach; Lea Vern Sims
Principal; B.L.BEnny Wicker

The Colored Citizen's School in Ponchatoula, Louisiana

ACT OF SALE

Original Act of Sale from The African Methodist Episcopal Church of Ponchatoula, La to Colored Citizen's School 

Before me Edwin R. Wells, a Notary, duly commissioned and qualified within and for the Parish of Tangipahoa, State of Louisiana, and in the presence oh witnesses hereinafter named and undersigned; Personally came and appeared;

Martin S. Berry Chairman of the Board of Trustees of the said African Methodist Episcopal Church, and J.W. Graves Residing Elder of the Said Church;

Duly authorized and empowered by a resolution passed by said Board of Trustees on February 10, 1916, which said resolution as of record on the minutes of said Board.

Who did declared for and in consideration of the price and sum of twenty one & 50/100, and other valuable considerations, the receipt of which is hereby acknowledged to have been received and good acquittance given for the same. They do on behalf of the said Church, sell set over transfer and deliver unto; The Colored Citizens School of Ponchatoula, Louisiana, herein represented by E.H. Pines chairman of the Board of Trustees of the said school, as per resolution passed by said Board of Trustees on 2nd, day of February 1916 as will appear of record on the minutes of the said board trustees of he said School, the following described property to wit.

Lot nume eleven and twelve, (11 & 12) in square number sixty nine, (69) together with all building and improvements or appuretanances thereto belonging, situate in the Town of Ponchatoula, Tangipahoa Parish State of Louisiana according to the official map of said Town.

To have and to hold the above described property unto the said purchasers, their heirs and assigned, forever, free from any lien for encumbrance whatever, with full and general warranty and all rights as held by the said vendors.

The certificate required by article number 3364 of the revised Civil Code of the State is hereby dispenced with and the undersigned Notary is hereby exonerated from all liability on account of the non-production of the same. All taxes assessed against the above described property have been paid up and to including the year 1916, the taxes for 1917 not being due, as evidenced by the tax receipts in the hands of the vendors. 

Thus done, signed and passed at Ponchatoula, in the parish and State aforesaid on this 1st day of August 1917, in the presence of Joe Mixon and ? Pince two competent witnesses, who have signed these presents together with the said appeared and me said Notary after due reading of the whole. 

Source: Tangipahoa Parish Clerk Office; Conveyance Book 81, page 331

Transcribed by: Antoinette Harrell

O.W. Dillon Faculty Member 1950-1951 Ernestine Fluker Imes

Ernestine Fluker Imes

Ernestine Fluker  Imes taught 1st grade at O.W. Dillon Training School in Kentwood, Louisiana. She was born in 1917 in Tangipahoa Parish to Irvin and Dielie Fluker. According to the 1920 U.S. Census her father worked at a saw mill as foreman. He was born in 1899 in Tangipahoa Parish, Louisiana. 

West Side Rams Class of 1962

For the past couple of weeks I've been assisting the Alumni's of O.W. Dillon School in Kentwood, Louisiana. I put a call out for high school yearbooks and two beautiful women by the names of Annette Vernon Brumfield and Ernestine Johnson still has their 1950-1951 yearbooks. I can't explain how excited and happy I was to take a look at those yearbooks.

While looking through the pages I found several family members of my own. My maternal cousins; Adam Gordon, Willie K. Gordon, Frank Gordon, and Maude Temple. When we start to preserve our family history and the community history, we will find that we're all connected by bloodlines or extended community family, classmates, neighbors or church members.

These two women hold a piece of the legacy of O.W. Dillon School that should never be forgotten. I called my cousin Vernon Gordon, Sr., and asked him if his father Adam Gordon played football. He confirmed that his father did play for the Westside Rams. All these years I didn't know that his father played football. When I got my magnifying glass to take a closer look at the image. I took a second look at number 76, which looks like my him.

I feel so happy that my passion for preserving the history of African American people in St. Helena and Tangiphaoa Parishes had educated me on the rich and unique history we have and the people who  shoulders I stand on.

At that time Reginald A. Cotton was the head coach and O.W. Cunnigen was the assistant coach. The team  had 23 veteran letterman and well balanced.  The next largest man on the squad was an even hundred pound senior tackle veteran Adam Gordon.

The following young men on the squad were;

Willie Finn, Larry Dillon, Richard Morris, Edward Tate, Shelton Johnson, Lionel Brumfield, Jimmy Daniels, Adam Gordon, Alfred Bennett, Fred Buckhalter, Larry Zanders, Robert Cain, Henry Fleming, Milton Curry, Solomon Davis, Julius Strickland, Maurice Dillon, Ernest Brown, Alton Zanders. Albert Perry, Thomas Williams, Elliot Himes, Larry Foster, Charles Harvey, Robert Oden, Anderson Tate, Nelson Finn, Curtis Bryant, Melvin Vernon, Enoch Sims, Earnest Gordon, Anderson Watterson, Joe E. Williams, Louis Ruffin, Robert Stewart, Raymond Brown, Henry Wilson, Alcee Allenn, Geroge Perry, Roy M. James, Rayford Brumfield.

Trainers;

Robert Andrews, Danny Riley, Earnest Walker and Willie Addison. Statisticians are; Leslie Mabry and Willie G. Williams.

Pep Squard;

Earline McDowell, Mary Mills, Ruthie James, and Gloria M. Seal.

Cheerleaders;

Derlean Kirkwood, Helen Cyprian, Shirley White, Lillie Frazier, Juanita Bush, Sarah Perry, Helen Buckhalter, Gloriastine Wilson, Rosemary Heart and Jeanne


Source: Article for a local newspaper. The name and date of the newspaper wasn't attached to the article.

O.W. Dillon Tigers of Kentwood, Louisiana

The Dillon Tigers of Kentwood, under  Coach Monroe Perry assisted by J.J. Williams and George Magee.

Photo Credit: Jenkins

Squadmen that make the Tigers go are: James Innis, Lanny Vernon, Lionel Patterson, Arvell Buckhalter, Clyde Walls, Hollis Robinson, Jimmy Washington, James Parker, McTha Turner, Woodrow Dyson, Bennie James Gordon, Conrad Wyre, Hurley Gordon, Elijah William, Nolan Gordon, Felix Braxton, Eugene Peavy, James Cook, Charlie Dunn, Fate Irving, Stanely Cooker, Charlie Robertson, Willie Chaney, Edmond Thomas, Lonnie Hookfin, J.D. Morris, Felix Johnson, and Charlie Johnson.

Source: This article appeared in a local newspapers. The date and name of the newspaper was not documented. I assumed it had to be the Kentwood Ledger.

Scranton and Emma Jones Harrell of Dodge, Georgia Lineage

Robert Harrell, Jr.

I met Robert Harrell, Jr.,  several years ago through social media. Robert family lineage run deep in  Dodge County, Georgia. He traced his great great grandfather Scranton Harrell back to 1868. He was married to
Penny and they had four sons. 

Robert's grandfather was named Scranton Harrell he was born around 1879. In 1930 they were living in Dodge, Georgia.  They owned their home, Scranton was a farmer and owned his own farm. He and his wife Emma were the parents of; Scranton, Robert, Isaac, Mattie, and Mandy.

Harrell-Jone & Related Families will be held in Atlanta, Georgia on August 1-3, 2017. The event is being hosted by the descendants of Scranton and Emma Jones Harrell and related families. Scranton was the grandson of Scranton and Emma Harrell and the son of Anthony & Mattie Yarborough. Emma was the daughter of Robert and Ellen Jones.

Robert publish a quarterly newsletter entitled " The Times Harrell" Family Newsletter "Our Roots Deep," is committed publishing an educational edition by early August. His prior editions only focused on current educational activities. However, his future issues will also include news on continuing college students and any noteworthy achievements of youth at any level.

Scranton and Emma Jone Harrell Marriage License
1901

Searching African American Harrell's in Amite County, Mississippi

Derius Harrrell, Pike County Clerk's Office
Photo Credit: Antoinette Harrell

Years ago a young man by the name of Derius Harrell contacted me to find out if I found any of his ancestors on my family tree. His family research took him to several counties in Mississippi; Pike, Amite and Marion counties.  My ancestors were also in Amite County. 

According to Derius Harrell family tree;  Harrison Harrell begat, Wilford James Harrell begat, Nathaniel Harrell begat,  Melvin Harrell begat, Derius Harrell. 

Harrison was born around 1850, he met and married Harriet in 1875. In the 1900 U.S. Census they were living Pike, Mississippi. They were the parents of fourteen children; Bertha, Duffie, Homer, Dendry, Allie, Caley, Lason, Rosa,  and Perry, was listed on the census. One the 1910 census you will find J.L, J.W. Jessie, and Roscoe in the home. The own their own home and were mortgage free. Harrison and Harriett was married for thirty years and were able to read and write.

Derius Harrell look so much like a my maternal first cousin. Each time I look at him I wonder if we share the same ancestors. Once we hit the brick wall in our genealogy research its time to turn to DNA. Its good to see all the Harrell families researching their family history. 

Isaac and Mariah Harrell of East Feliciana Parish, Louisiana

Top Left: William Harrell, Sr. Bottom Left: Isaac Harrell, Jr.
Top Right: Johnny Harrell: Bottom Right: Joseph Harrell
Isaac Harrell in the center.

Last week a woman name Carolyn August- Robinson contacted me about her East Feliciana Harrell family.  Her grandfather Isaac Harrell was born circa 1892. Isaac's mother was named Catherine, she married a man name Ripley Flowers who listed Isaac as his stepson in the 1900 U.S. Census. 

A brother by the name of James E. Harrell was living in the household. James was born in 1894. 

In 1910 he was living in the Police Jury Ward 7th, East Feliciana, Louisiana.  He was recorded as a mulatto and was a farmer by occupation. He was married to Mariah Jefferson Harrell.  They were the parents of Catherine, Emma, Leola, Viola, Mary Ella, Florence, Joseph, John, Isaac and Elizabeth Harrell.

In 1920 Isaac and Mariah were living in New Orleans, Louisiana at 5763 Dauphine Street. He worked as a laborer at a saw mill. In 1930 the family was living at 5431 Urquhart Street. Isaac was longshoreman working on the docks.

Their son Joseph was killed in a train derailment in 1947 on his way home. Once Isaac and his wife left the small town of Clinton they made New Orleans their home. Many of their descendants still live in the New Orleans today. I heard that there were Harrell's who lived in the ninth ward in New Orleans other than my Harrell family. Now that I'm making a connection with other Harrell's who came from Clinton it may help me find my maternal great grandfather Alexander's brother and sisters offsprings if there were any.

The Harrell Sister

Just this past week  family historian Karran Harper Royal and I went to Clinton to help New Orleans Police Officer Stephen Harrell, Sr. connect to his Harrell roots in Clinton. Now we're connecting with Carolyn to connect with her Clinton roots.

In 1802 Hezekiah Harrell was sent as early as 1802 by his father, fat old Levi Harrell of Charleston District, S.C., to explore the southern wilds for a home large enough for his "old folks," the littles one, the slaves and herds. Hezekiah, having obtained a liberal Spanish grant.  Fat "Ole Levi," other family lines are  Smith, Bacon, Chance, Robinson, Hobgood, Little, Cassel, McNeil and Hunt. They all lived in East Feliciana and Amite County, Mississippi in the early 1800s.  I've been to the clerk's office in Amite County, Mississippi many time looking at the slave inventory and succession records of Hezekiah. Now that I know the lineage of Isaac and Beauregard Harrell, I would like to find their ancestors who were slaves to find out if they were related to my maternal great-great grandfather Robert Harrell.

Carolyn August-Robinson

One thing that fat old Levi told his son Hezekiah is not to sell any of his slaves. Hezekiah honored his father wishes and kept the enslaved African together on the the Harrell plantation.  I hear people with the last name Harrell talk about their Clinton roots.  I think its time to use DNA to find out if we're related once we hit a brick wall and our research can't go any
further.

So many of us with the last name Harrell want to know how history and more about our ancestors, who were they, where did they come from. Who are their children? Where did they go after the Emancipation Proclamation was signed granting the former slaves their freedom. I very grateful for social media networks, because we're sharing photographs and family stories.

Carolyn informed me that she and Stephen are friends on facebook and she was trying to find out if they're related.  I think we'll  get some answers very soon. If you're a Harrell with ancestral roots in East Feliciana Parish, Amite County, Mississippi, St. Helena Parish, Tangipahoa Parish and Orleans Parish, and you would like to share your Harrell family history please email me at afrigenah@yahoo.com., Karan and I would like to hear about your history and we're still searching for the descendants of Alexander and Dinah Harrell.

Isaac Harrell, Jr.
Son of Isaac and Mariah Harrell

Genealogist Karran Royal Visit the Land of Her Great Grandfather Shelton Harrell, Sr.

The Homestead of her gg grandmother Emma Mead Harrell
Photo Credit: Walter C. Black, Sr.

Karran and I met over fifteen years ago in New Orleans, La., I had just finished writing and publishing the Harrell family history book. The Times Picayune Newspaper published and article about my book and Karran contacted me after reading the article. She said to me, "I think we are related through my great grandfather Shelton." After talking with her indeed she and I are related through my maternal grandfather Jasper Harrell, Sr., and her paternal great grandfather Shelton Harrell, Sr. 

Just recently I asked her if she had ever been to the homestead of her great grandfather in Tangiphaoa Parish, she told me no. I had to arrange a road trip to the  old Emma Mead Harrell Homestead for her. This past December the genealogy bug bit Karran and she had been hooked every since. She researched her mother's side of the family and her husband's side of the family. 

We  visited  Big Zion cemetery where the Harrell family is buried at in Roseland, Louisiana. It was her first time going to the gravesite of her Harrell family members. Having someone in the family who is committed to researching, documenting and preserving our family history is exciting and rewarding for me, but especially for our family.

Karran has joined me as the co-host of "Nurturing Our Roots Educational Television Talk Show" the show where we're growing new branches. This is the beginning of our road trips. We would like to invite other family members to take the road trip with us to learn about our family history.

This land has been in our family since 1896. Our great grandmother Emma Mead Harrell worked hard to save enough money to purchase land for  her heirs. Our next road trip will be visiting the Harrell cemeteries in East Feliciana Parish. From there we'll visit the Amite County, Mississippi. We'll keep you posted right here on Preserving Our History in Tangipahoa Parish Blog and Nurturing Our Roots Educational Television Program. If you would like to join Karran and me, please contact me by email at afrigenah@yahoo.com.

Harrell's from East Feliciana Parish, Louisiana Connecting Their Lineage

Nurturing Our Roots Producer and Host
Antoinette Harrell and Stephen Harrell, Sr.
Photo Credit: Walter C. Black, Sr.

Today my cousin Karran Harper Royal co-host of Nurturing Our Roots Television Program and I drove to Clinton, Louisiana with Stephen and Elton Harrell from New Orleans, LA. Stephen and his brother knew their grandfather Garrett Harrell was from Clinton, Louisiana., This was the oral history that was told to them by another family member.

My Harrell oral history was told to me by my mother Isabell Harrell. My mother said that her father Jasper Harrell, Sr., told her that his father's family were from Clinton as well.  I traveled many times to Clinton to make a connection with Harrell's who never left the small town. Last year Stephen and I talked about his family genealogy to find out if we're related.  We won't stop until we find out if we are related. Stephen's great grandfather Beaugard Harrell was born in 1860 in Clinton. Louisiana. Beauregard married a woman name Louise. To their union ten children was born; John Thomas, Lucy, Mary, Margaret, Walter, Clara, Cornelia, Carrie, Garrett, Emma and Octavia Harrell. 

 Karran Royal co-host  of Nurturing Our Roots
Television Talk Show, Elton and Stephen Harrell

According to the 1880 U.S. Census Beauregard lived in the 7th Ward, East Feliciana, Louisiana. He's listed as a mulatto. He was living in the house with a cousin by the name of Admiral C. Spears. Beauregard was a farmer by trade.

Photo Credit: Walter C. Black, Sr.

After we spent several hours in the clerk's office in Clinton researching the Harrell lineage we went to see James Harrell. James is the owner of a mechanic shop in Clinton and I knew if anyone could help us it would be James. He stopped working and talked with us a while about his family lineage. James' father was Gus Harrell and Gus is the son of Beauregard Harrell. While sitting down waiting for James to call his sister Hazel and cousin Jack to talk with us, Elton was just saying how James reminded him of his male family members on the Harrell side of the family. That's when James said that Gus father was Beauregard Harrell, "we all started laughing with joy knowing that a family lineage connection was made."  

Hazel was so excited to meet everyone. It felt like we had known them all of our life. Before we left we exchanged phone numbers and planned  a date to meet up again and visit the Harrell cemeteries in Clinton and meet other Harrell families.  At this point Karran and I are looking into researching and documenting all the Harrell's who live in  Clinton, Louisiana. Although we have a lot of help from other Harrell's who are trying to make a lineage connections as well. This week I received many phone calls from other people who carry the surname Harrell. Some people have sent me photographs, documents and family trees. So that tell me that we're on the right track. 

1967 Desegregation of Schools in Tangipahoa Parish

May 17, 1967


Dear Parent:

All grades in our school system will be desegregated next year. Any student will be entering one of these grades next year may choose to attend any school in our system, regardless of whether that school was formerly all-white or all Negro. It does not matter which school your child is attending this year. You and your child may select any school you wish.

Every student, white and Negro, must make a choice of schools. If a child is entering that ninth or higher grade, or it the child is fifteen years old or older, the may make the choice himself.  Otherwise, a parent or other adult serving as a parent must sign the choice form. A child enrolling in the school system for the first time must make a choice of schools before or at the time of his enrollment.

The form on which the choice should be made is attached to this letter. It should be completed and returned by June 15, 1967. You may mail it or deliver it by messenger or by hand to any school principal or to the Office of the Superintendent at any time between May 15 and June 15. No one may require you to return your choice form before June 15 and no preference is given for returning the choice from early.

No principal, teacher or other school official is permitted to influence anyone in making a choice or to require the early return of the choice form. No one is permitted to favor or penalize any student or another person because of choice make. A choice once makes cannot be changed except for serious hardship.

No child will be denied his choice unless for reasons of overcrowding at the school chosen, in which case children living nearest the school will have a preference.

Transportation will be provided, if reasonably possible, no matter what school is chosen.

Your School Board and the school staff will do everything we can to see to it that the right of all students are protected and that desegregation of our schools is carried out successfully.

Sincerely yours,

Deurit L Sauls,

Superintendent

St. Helena Historic Property-Lillian Cry House

Lillian Cry House

The Lillian Cry House, is nearly a ruin. It is a parlor-dole pen of boxes framed with a pyramidal roof, a hipped roof shed porch; and its only fireplace on the right pen. Symmetry is maintained by the window-door-window-door-window (6/6) facade.

Lillian Cry was the daughter of Bill Cry. She come from a large and respected Negro family.

Recorded by: M.B. Newton, Jr.
Date: May 2, 1981

St. Helena Historic Preservation Property-Warren Napoleon Sims

Warren Napoleon Sims

At the end of the nineteenth century, square (or Bill) Cry built the barn also know as the D.D.Day Barn and the Warner Napoleon Sim Barn. Cry is said to have lived in the right two cribs before he sold the land to D.D. Day, who built another house in 1922, Day sold the place to Sims. Cry and Sims were Negroes; Day was white. Sims (96) still owns it, although he has on account of  his age let it rundown.

The older part is the divided, 12 by 19 ft. crib ( 17 logs to the plate). It had been used as two says. It has two plank doors; both with carved, wooden latches (sliding bar). A 12-ft, runway separates the two main parts of the barn. The left crib is slightly narrower and is of larger logs (14 to the plate); its one door is a plank door made with square naisl. These two parts are of saddle-notched, round logs. A huge, gable roof covers the two cribs and,  in the rear, has three stalls, plus some other space devoted to animals. The front shed holds an excellent old house drawn hay rake.

This barn is remarkable in its black-white succession and in its hardware (wrought iron and carved wood).

St. Helena Property and Historic Significance-Blanche Williams Place

Blanche Williams Place

Henry William Johnson, a Negro farmer, miller, and builder, built his house, perhaps about 1900. It is well built, central-hall house with a built in porch, boxes cornices (front and rear), 4 by 6 in, porch posted with built-up capitals and key-holes notches at their bases, and a hood on three sides of the porch. It is of boards-and-battens; it had beaded siding under the gallery; it had one 6/6 window into each pen; its loft is finished; its one chimney is on the right.



The kitchen ell-now in ruin-also has a chimney.
This is a remarkable house, all things considered.

Recorded by M.B. Newton, Jr.
Date: May 15, 1981
For: Comprehensive Planning Assoc.
Devision of Archaeology and Historic Preservation

The Lee and Bennett Family History

Picture unknown

It all began when Henry Lee and Ora Bennett met and fell in love and united in Holy matrimony in 1902. Their first daughter was born and they named her Alonia Gladestine. In 1908 their second daughter was born and they named her Mary Birdie. After her birth they packed up and moved to Doddsville, Ms., near Tunica.

The first born child Alonia died in 1911, at and young age. Henry and Ora moved from plantation to plantation to the keep fed and clothed. They didn't have a formal education, but their faith is God was strong and they had each other. Henry taught himself what he needed to know. He learned to survive, work hard and ask the the plantation owner for what he needed. He was different from Negroes of his generation because he didn't fear white people.

He learned of their ways and used it to provide for his family. After the riding tidy of the Mississippi flood in 1927, and the depression they were able to survive because they had God on their side.  They loved and nurtured their children into fine and proud of their own. Henry provided well for his family under these circumstance. His children had plenty to eat, properly clothed and always had a place to stay. He was the first black man to own a automobile in the town he lived in. People would walk for miles to get him to take them to the doctor and other places.

Unknown

They worked hard to gather the crops and make ends meet. On Saturday nights in the they would go to town. After working hard all week, they looked forward to Saturday nights on the town.  The old fashion virtues of working hard, serving the Lord and honesty were a must in the Lee/Bennett Family.  The children were taught to love and respect themselves, their parents, and the elders. All Henry's brothers stayed with him at one time. Ora would say, "the Lord blessed them so they could help some else".

On Sunday it was time to to got church and give thanks to the Lord for his many blessing during the week. The children would walk to Sunday school and they would follow in the wagon before they purchased a car. Ora loved her house and often styled him at church.

After the harvest was reaped, the hogs killed, meat cured, grain grinded, can cut and syrup made, they would help their neighbors. Henry was well known for making syrup and the he had his own mill. Neighbors would come from a far to bring their sorghum and he would cook the syrup while the women gathered to can vegetable and fruits preserves the winter.

Once all the supplies were ordered and stored the women would start quilting and the family was ready for a long winters. After the creditors were paid and they received the furnish money would share what was left, which wasn't very much.

The children attend the nearest school. At that time the most school were in the old church building because the attendance was so poor. During the winter it would be so cold and the school located miles from their home, but they to go, come rain, sleet or snow they went to school.

In 1925, they lived on the Dower Luster's plantation and in 1927 the moved  to Street Toler's plantation in Sunflower County. They later moved Beasley Bayou in 1935 located in Isola, Ms. and on the Warren Gardner's plantation in 1939 in Sliver City, Mississippi.


Source: The Lee-Bennett Family Reunion Booklet. The pictures used in this article were taken from the Lee/Bennett Family Reunion Booklet.

Obsequies of the Late Sister Mattie Lee Stewart

Mattie Lee Stewart
1916-1987

Mattie was a devoted wife and mother, on who always put the interest of her family first. She saw to it that her children were given the best that she could provide in loving care, spiritual nourishment, and material comforts.

Mattie, was the fifth daughter of Robert E. and Ella Bennett Lee. She was born in St. Helena Parish on January 19, 1916. She became a christian at an early age and was member of Greater Turner Chapel until death.

She leaves to mourn in her passing: her husband, J. W. Stewart, Sr; one son: Superintendent J. W. Stewart, Jr.; one daughter: Lillie Mae Tillery, both of Greensburg, LA.; four sisters: Caretha Bulter, Lillie Stewart, Mary Lee Wicker, and Velma Lee all of Greensburg and Tom Lee Silver City, Ms.; one foster brother: Emmitt Perry of New Orleans; on e daughter-in-law: Levoria Pope Stewart: Willie Tillery of New Orleans, LA.; four brothers-in-law, three sisters-in-law, three grandchildren, four great grandchildren and a host of aunts, nieces, nephews, relatives and friends.

The Obsequies for Sister Lizzie Lee

Lizzie Lee
1907-1977

Sister Lizzie Lee, the daughter of the late Mr. and Mrs. Eugene Jackson, was born September 23, 1907. She was married to Mr. Gene Lee and to this union 7 children were born.  Her oldest child, Mr. Edward Lee preceded her in death.

At an early age she was converted and later accepted the calling of God to go out into the world and preach His Gospel to all. She was a faithful member of Mount Everett A. M.E. Methodist Church until death.

On Tuesday, August 16th at 12:55 o'clock p.m., at Charity Hospital in New Orleans, the angel of heaven came into the hospital and with chilly fingers sealed the lips of Sister Lizzie Lee. Her soul winged its flight from this world of sin, sorrow and pain to a place of eternal rest.

She leaves to mourn a husband, Mr. Gene Lee of Montpelier, LA., Three daughter: Mrs. Helen Spears and Mrs. Lucille Collins of New Orleans, LA., and Mrs. Frankie Wright of Baton Rouge, La., Three sons: Moses James Lee and Wilbert Lee of New Orleans, LA., and Leon Lee of Hammond, La., The God-given mother of Mrs. Mateldia Rankins and Charles Robertson. One brother, Willie Jackson. Three sister: Mrs. Ceola Freeman, Mrs. Viola Green and Mrs. Carrie White all of New Orleans, La., Tow brother-in-law: Mr. Cleveland Spears and Mr. Robert Collins of New Orleans, and Prentiss Wright of Baton Rouge, LA., Four daughters-in-law: Mrs. Irene and Mrs. Marie Lee of New Orleans, LA., Mrs. Kate Lee of Hammond, LA., and Mrs. Mary Lee of Los Angles, California. Twenty-two grandchildren, seven great grandchildren, a host of nieces, nephews, relatives and friends.

Source: The Obituary of Collection of Cletis Gordon, Sr.

The Obsequies of Brother Hollis Tillery

Hollis Tillery
1913-1992

Brother Hollis Tillery was born to the union of Willie and Nora Tillery, August 10, 1913 and departed this life January 19, 1992 in St. Helena Parish Hospital in Greensburg, LA at 2:00 a.m., He was a member of Turner Chapel A.M.E. Church. He taught school in St. Helena Parish.

Hew as united in wedlock to Ruby Gordon and to this union one daugther was born: Donnal T. Wilson. Later years he married Mrs. Lillie V. Tillery. He leaves to mourn his devoted wife, Mrs. Lille V. Tillery; sister, Mrs. Elnora Wall of Fluker, LA; one step daughter, fours step sons, 8 sisters-in-law, one brothers-in-law, and a host of relatives and friends.

Source: The Obituary Collection of Cletius Gordon, Sr.

The Obsequies of Sister Minnie Lee Stewart

Minnie Lee Stewart
1907-1987

Minnie, was the second daughter of Robert E. and Ella Bennett Lee, was born in St. Helena Parish. She was brought up in the fear of the Lord, became a Christian at an early age and was a member of Turner Chapel until her death.

She was united in Holy Matrimony in Ebbie David Stewart, Sr., and to this union eight children were born. Three children were born by a former marriage. She invested her talents in helping and giving advice to others. She was charter member of Eagle Chapter #113 O.E.S.

She was preceded in death by her parents. One Son; Arthur: One daughter, Robertstine: one brother. Nathaniel Lee: and one grandson, Charles E. Kane.

This loyal wife, mother, sister, daughter and friends leaves to mourn her passing: her devoted husband Ebbie David Stewart, Sr., six daughters: Sophia Kane of Portland, OR, Ruby Washington of Sacramento, CA, Rosa Campbell and Mayola Tillery of Greensburg, LA, Gracie of Zachary, LA., Josie Gordon of New Orleans, LA.: Three sons: Ebbie, Jr., of Oakland, CA, Willie Lee and Jesse Stewart of New Orleans, LA; two grandchildren whom she reared: Semmie Martin of Baton Rouge, LA., and Kevin Stewart of Greensburg, LA., two stepchildren: Caretha Martin of New Orleans and Warren Martin of Hammond, LA.; five sisters: Caretha Butler, Lillie and Mattie Stewart. Mary Lee Wicker and Velma Lee all of Greensburg: two brother. Moore Lee of Greensburg and Tom Lee of Silver City, MS: one foster brother: Emmitt Perry of New Orleans: three daughters-in-law: Barbara Stewart of Oakland, CA. Catherine and Annette Stewart of New Orleans, LA; five sons-in-law: Ed Clark, William Campbell. Bounce Tillery, Freddie brothers-in-law, three sisters-in-law. 25 children, 26 grandchildren and a host of relatives and friends.


Source: The Obituary Collection of Cletis Gordon, Sr.

The Obsequies for Fred Overton

Fred Overton
1897-1968

The quiet manner and useful life, the gentle speech in the life of Brother Fred Overton attracted people to him, and his conscientious service as a trustee, community worker, class leader and benevolent president won the hearts of both races.

He lived a very useful and peaceful lie. He was a devoted husband and father. He was interested in the well-being of his children and everyone in the community. In times of work, indecision, confusion and strife, and in progress, he was looked to for guidance in advice.

On January 15, 1968 the angel of death came and bore the bright spirit of Brother Overton away to the land that is free from the heartaches of this earth. Fred Overton was born to the union of Mrs. Jane Gordon and Overton and Rev. William Overton on September 11, 1897 in Greensburg, LA. in 1918 he was united in holy matrimony to Miss Daisy Stewart. To this union thirteen children was boon. He was reared with a love for God, people and progress.

To mourn in passing he leaves his wife, Mrs. Daisy Stewart Overton; five daughters- Mrs. Lucille Jackson and Mrs. Viola Hurst of Greensburg, LA., Mrs. Izola Millican of Oakland, Calif., Mrs. Bertha Montgomery of Marina, Calif., Miss Doris Overton and Mrs. Ermentrude O. Sheard of Philadelphia, Pa.,  a foster daughter Mrs. Margurite P. Overton of Greensburg, La.; five sons, Charlie and Joe of Greensburg, La., John of Metairie, LA., Fred, Jr. of Philadelphia, PA., Rev. Edward Overton of Ardmore, Pa; one brother, Willie Overton of Greensburg, La.; five sisters, Mrs. Alma Douglas, Greensburg, La., Mrs. Martha Overton, Mrs. Lillie Emerson, Mrs. Pearl Spark of New Orleans, La., Mrs. Candaisy Donald of Pine Grove, La., thirty-three grandchildren, six great grandchildren, a host of in-laws, other relatives and friends.

Source: The Obituary Collection of Cletius Gordon, Sr.

The Obsequies of Brother Robert E. Lee

Robert E. Lee 

Brother Robert E. Lee was born to Mrs. Caroline Clark and Mr. Presley Lee, July 5, 1879 in St. Helena Parish. He was reared in the atmosphere of a christian home and converted at an early age, united with Turner Chapel A.M.E. Church in St. Helena Parish.

He lived a very useful and peaceful life. He was a devoted husband and father. He was interested in the well-being of his children and everyone in the community. In times of work, confusion, strife, and progress, he was looked to for guidance, encouragement and advice.

He was united in Holy Matrimony to Mrs. Ella Bennett who preceded him in death. To this union eight children were born. He leaves to mourn his passing six daughters;  Minnie, Mattie, and Lillie Stewart, Velma Lee, Mary Wicker and Caretha Butler all of Greensburg, La.; one foster daughter; Mrs John Ella Richardson of New Orleans, LA.; three sons; Monroe and Nathaniel Lee of Greensburg, LA., and Tom Lee of Silver City, Miss.; one foster son; Emmitt Perry of New Orleans, LA; two brothers; Sam and Arthur Lee of St. Paul, Minnesota.

Approximately 50 grandchildren, 100 great grandchildren, six sons-in-law, three daughters-in-law, a host of nieces, nephews and other relatives and friends.

Source: The Obituary collection of Cletis Gordon Sr.

The Obsequies of Daisy Stewart Overton

Daisy Overton
1900-1976

Sister Daisy S. Overton joined church and baptized at an early age. Her Christian life was  the fragrance of a beautiful rose and her influence will ever live in whatever place she has resided. She has been faithful and ardent worker in the church. Attended church regularly and saw to it the family group attended with her.

Today we are silent, to pay tribute to then of God's gentle women upon whose head rests a crown studded with sparkling jewels of her golden deeds. Always putting Christ first in whatever she did. She was devoted wife and mother who saw to it that her children were given the best she could provided in loving care, spiritual nourishment, and material comforts. This example she lives daily will ever be a goal for her family to strive to reach.

She invested her many talents into every broadening, good work which she good find. She was active in many auxiliaries, every ready to do what was needed. She was always alert as how she could help, comfort and cheer someone who was more needy than herself. He days were filled with helpful and absorbing work. She visited the sick and the sorrowing, taught Sunday School and won many you hearts for the Master.  Her life was full and happy. She was a lovable character, a person everyone chose to have as a friend and willing to be a friend to all. She left a living example of loving service, worthy of emulation, which tribute should bear some comfort for her loved ones. But when the sun of life reach it zenith, with the brightness of a well-spent life has ended.

Daisy Stewart was born to the union of Mrs. Ada Thomas Stewart and Rev. Ebbie Stewart, date April 8, 1900 in Clinton, LA., In 1918 she was united in Holy Matrimony to the late Fred Overton to this union thirteen children were born.

To mourn her passing she leave; five daughter: Mrs. Lucille Reed and Mrs Doris Johnson, New Orleans, La., Mrs. Bertha Montgomery, Pemberton, N.J., Mrs. Viola Hurst, Greensburg, LA., Mrs, Izola Millican, Oakland, California, and a foster daughter: Mrs. Margurite P. Overton, Greensburg.; four sons: Rev Edward Overton, Ardmore, PA., Mr. Fred Overton Jr., Philadelphia, PA., Mrs. Charlie Overton and Mr. Joe Overton, Jr., Greensburg, LA.; three sisters: Mrs. Bertha Hall, Mrs. Velma Irving, Greensburg, LA., Mrs. Imogene Jones, Houston, TX and four brothers: Mr. J.W. Stewart, Mr. Cleveland Stewart, Mrs. Ebbie Stewart, Greensburg, LA., and Dr. Alfred Stewart, Donaldsonville, LA., 55 grandchildren, 22 great-great grandchildren, a host of in-laws, relatives and friends

Leon Dunn the Dunn and Chapman Family Griot

Left to right: Leon Dunn, Ruby Dunn Gilmore,
Theodore Dunn

If you want to learn about the Dunn and Chapman family branches of the family. Leon Dunn is the person you want to sit and talk with.  You may want to bring a video recorder and take notes. Mr. Dunn is in his 80s and his mind is very sharp and sound. His niece Paulette went to talk with him about the family history that he could recall for their Dunn family reunion. 

He talked about what he knew and what his father Theodore Dunn passed on to him. Recording your family is very important it is the unwritten history of your family. Everyone has a family member who love to reminisce about "the old day",  and the people who they remember.  At one time we use to be able to say that oral history was often passed down from generation to generation.  Nowadays, it seems like many people in the younger generations has no interest at all in their family history. 

They're to busy with their own lives, work, families, and other interests. By the time they stop and and want to know more about the family history most of the elderly people may not be around anymore.

I could have sit and talk with Mr. Leon for hours. He was recalling events, places and people. Although he didn't know his Native American grandfather Hezekiah. His father passed down stories  to him about Hezekiah. 

Most importantly, Mr. Leon wanted to talk about the family history. Often times some elders in the family doesn't want too talk about the family history. I heard many of them say, "I can't remember". Oral history fill in the gap and help us to learn more about our family and the community they lived in. 

I found Mr. Leon to be a treasure for the Dunn and Chapman families. One of the trades that was past down to him was farming. On any sunny day, you can find him on his tractor tending his crops or harvesting the crops. Although is knees ache him, he don't let it stop him from doing what he love doing. I hope that I can get talk with him to record his family history and preserve it in the oral history collection at Southeastern Louisiana University.

Mayor Irma T. Gordon First Year in Office Reflections

Chief Kazerooni, Councilwoman Irma Clines,
Mayor Irma T. Gordon, Councilman Callihan

Kentwood, Louisiana- Mayor Irma T. Gordon became the first elected female mayor of the Town of Kentwood, Louisiana. The first year went by very fast and Mayor Gordon and the Town Council has accomplished many task. However she feel there is so much work yet to be done. You can find Mayor Gordon at the Town City Hall five days a week. Although she served on the Town Council for two decades. So serving the citizens of Kentwood is something that she knows all about.

"We will continue to work to improve our town", she said. One thing that Mayor Gordon has address is the blighted properties on Main Street. The town had already started demolition on some of the building that was falling down. "We now have Walmart's and a new medical clinic," said Mayor Gordon. "We're looking at attracting more businesses to our town," Gordon said.  The Mayor invites the citizens of Kentwood to attend the monthly Town Meeting every first Thursday of the month.

Please click on the video below.


https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=O8FO8tcaA5M&feature=share

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

A Life Celebration of Nezzy "Knotrocker" Womack

1913-2005

Nezzy, a faithful servant of God, was called from his earthly woes to his eternal rest on Saturday, October 15, 2005. He was born to the union of Green and Luvenia Womack, on July 24, 1913.

Nezzy, joined church at an early age at Venable Chapel A.M.E. Church in Liverpool, LA. He and his siblings grew up and went to school in Liverpool. When Nezzy was thirty on, he enlisted in the United States Army, where he served in World War II, earning several metals for his service, the highest one being the World War II Victory metal.

Nezzy united in holy matrimony to Sister Vera Buckhalter, fifty six years ago. He spent a life of bliss with his wife and eight children in Kentwood, LA., Nezzy joined Oak Grove A.M.E. Church after returning from the army. He served there faithfully, as a trustee and dutiful servant of God. Shortly before celebrating their fiftieth year anniversary. Brother Nezzy decided that he and wife should worship God together, as member of the same church, so he joined the Orange Grove C.O.G.I.C.

Nezzy was one of the first black businessmen in Kentwood. Their store, "Nezzy's Grocery",  served as a landmark in our community. For many years Mr. Nezzy as he was affectionately called, loved serving the children when they came into his store. He was also a skilled cabinet maker, excelling in many kinds of woodwork.

Brother Nezzy Womack has a deep passion for singing, he was the bass in the Orange Grove Gospel Quartet. It was in the Quarter that he developed a love for his lifelong favorite songs, The Lord Will Make A Way Somehow", "Precious Lord"and" He Never Left Me Alone".

He leaves to cherish his memory, his devoted wife, Vera; eight children, John Peavy, Emma Cleveland, Kentwood, La.; Eugene Peavy(Geraldine), Chicago, IL; Gwendolyn Clifton (Charles), Kent, Wa.; Althea Mitchell (Raymond), LaPlace, La.; Artis Cohn (Floyd), Baton Rouge, La.; Cassie Dennis and Brenda Holmes (Special Children), Audrey, Jackie, and Martina; two brother, Leon Womack, Baton Rouge, La., and Green Womack (Geraldine), Atlanta, Ga; three sisters, Bessie Stanford, Evirda Shipp, Baton Rouge, La., and Reba McIntyre, Kentwood, La; five sister-in-laws; Elice, Ola, Sally, Lilian and Doris Womack; two brother-in-laws, Arthur and Woodrow Buckhalter; thirty-five grandchildren, fifty-two great-grandchildren; and a host of nieces, nephews, cousins, other relatives and good friends.

Brother Nezzy Womack was preceded in death by his mother and father, Luvenia Taylor and Green Womack; a daughter, Patsy Womack; two sisters, Bertha Montgomery and Helen Imes; seven brothers, John, I.W., Sonny, Walter, A.C., Charlie, Paul and Ray; also a son-in-law, James Cleveland.

In Loving Memory of Maye Pennella Richardson Hall

1918-1992

She was the second daughter of the late Emma Lou Elder Washington and the late Horace Joseph Richardson, Sr.; their baby girl. Maybe Pennella Richardson was born May 2, 1918 and she passed May 11, 1992; having resided at the same residence from beginning to end. She was the beloved wife of the late James Arthur Hall and devoted sister of the late Albert "A.L.", the late Amel, the late Vanzie Wilhemena and the late Horace Joseph Jr. "Pete". She was the loving mother of Jacquelyn Augusta, Vanzie Catherine, Marvin Othel, and Jimmi Lorraine, grandmother of their ten children and great-grandmother of their nine grandchildren.

Homegoing Services for Stacey Andrea Gordon

1963-2015

Stacy Andrea Gordon was the baby children of 12, born on November 10, 1963 to the late Adam and Susie Marie Hookfin Gordon. On March 8, 2015 she was called to her eternal resting place with our Lord and Saviour.

Stacy was raised in Kentwood, LA. She declared her faith of God at an early age, attending Orange Grove Church of God in Christ (COGIC). She later moved her membership to Emmanuel Church of God in Christ (COGIC) where she was an active and dedicated member. Stacy was involved in many auxiliaries, and formed a great passion for the choir and youth ministries.

She was educated in the Tangipahoa Parish School System and graduated from Kentwood High School. Stacy graduated from the Ruth Cook's Computer School. She became a para-professional at Kentwood Elementary School where she enjoyed working with children. Stacy was employed by Tangipahoa Parish Clerk of Court office. She enjoyed her job; bringing joy and laughter to the her co-worker until declining health led to retirement.

In 1987 Stacy married Jerry Bryant. To this union, daughters Jerrica and Kelsey Bryant were born. Besides these two lovely daughters, both of Kentwood, LA who cherish her memory, Stacy is survived by her four sister; Dorothy Daniel of Houston, TX, Mary A. Harrell of Amite, LA, Bettye J.
Jackson of San Leandro, CA and Sharon Gordon of Missouri City, TX and by her seven brothers; Willie Neal Gordon and Alvin Gordon both of Kentwood, LA, Nolan Gordon, Redger Gordon, Herman Gordon and Chris Gordon all of Houston, TX and Glen Patrick Gordon of Slidell, LA, and a host of nieces, nephews, in-laws, aunts, uncles and other family members.

Stacy is preceded in death by her parents, Adam and Susie Marie Gordon and her brother, Bobby Gordon. Stacy loved people and her humor brought light in many places. Her laughter will forever be remembered.

The Home Going Celebration for Mae Louise Miller

Mae Louise Miller
1943-2014

Mae Louise Miller was born August 24, 1943 to the late Cain Walls, Sr., and Lela Mae Holden Walls. She was married to Wallace Miller for twenty plus years. She accepted Christ early in her life and attended Orange Grove C.O.G.I.C., then she later joined Deliverance Temple C.O.G.I.C., She truly the Lord.

She was an inspiration to all she met and known for her big smile and caring spirit. Her most precious gift was her motherly love for all children. She also had an open door attitude for all who came to her home.

She traveled to several states on behalf of the Civil Rights Movement speaking and meeting notable people: Martin Luther King, III, Susan Taylor-editor of Essence magazine, the late Dr. Ron Walters, Dr. Ron Daniels, the late Min. Harold Muhammad, Dr. Leonard Dunston, and former Councilman Oliver Thomas.

She appeared in People's magazine (2007), Nightline News, and About Time magazine. She spoke on the Travis Smiley Radio Talk Show, Bev Smith Radio Talk Show, and FM 98 Radio Talk Show, Warren Ballentine Radio Show, and Nurturing Our Roots Television Talk Show with host and producer Antoinette Harrell.

She leaves to cherish her memories; 4 children-Terrine (Christopher) Steele, Burkhalter, Joe (Angela) Hill, Tausha' Steele; all of Kentwood, LA-Kerry (Tamika) Steele of Raleigh, NC; 5 grandchildren; 2 great grandchildren, 2 sisters; Annie Miller and Idell Walls of Kentwood, LA; 2 brother; Arthur( Willie Mae) Walls of Varnado, LA and CW Walls of Kentwood, LA; a host of nieces and nephews whom she loved and help raise as her own children, other relatives and friends and a special cousin, Minnie Dillon.

She was preceded in death by her parents Cain Walls, Sr., and Lela Mae Walls, a sister; Ernestine Hills, and a brother Cain Walls, Jr.