In Loving Memory of Ernest Hickerson, Jr.

Ernest Hickerson, Jr., was born on July 21, 1933 in New Orleans, Louisiana to Ernest and Roberta Hickerson, Sr.  Ernest Jr., entered the United States Army in 1949 where he served serveral years during the Korean Conflict. He was honorably discharged and was decorated with the Purple Heart for his services.

His survived by: his mother, Roberta Hickerson-Waiters; his wife, Gloria, his sister, Willie Mae Hickerson-Canody; two children, Darnell and Glyniss; his aunt Emma Lee Frazier of Amite, Louisiana; tow grandchildren and a host of nieces, nephews, several cousins and many, many friends. 

Ernest had gone on to Greater glory. We know that the Lord will welcome him to his new home with open arms.

Source: Funeral Program of Ernest Hickerson, Jr.

Courtesy of Richardson Funeral Home, Inc. Amite, La.

A trailblazer in Tangipahoa Parish the story of James Robert Vernon

James Robert Vernon
Photo Courtesy
 Gyniss Vernon Gordon

On the evening of July 27, 1957, the figure of silence, often personified as an angel, entered the home of Reverend James Robert Vernon and, with a touch as cold as the stillness it brought, sealed his lips in eternal repose. He was the devoted and loving husband of Pearley Briggs Vernon, and in that moment, his soul departed from this realm of human struggle—a world marked by sin, sorrow, and pain—ascending to a place of eternal peace and rest.

The life of Reverend James Robert Vernon was one that left a lasting and unwavering impression on those who knew him. Unlike some lives that may disappoint or require a reassessment of character over time, the impression he made upon first meeting remained steadfast until the end of his days. From a young age, he embraced Christianity, joining the Mount Canaan Baptist Church, where he was baptized by his father, Reverend Robert Vernon. For over sixty-one years, he dedicated himself to the Master's service, selflessly offering his time, counsel, and resources to support endeavors that he believed would contribute to the greater good. 

His generosity and commitment to helping others exemplified a life lived in service to his faith and his community.Reverend James R. Vernon was a man of selflessness, which led him to seek companionship to share in the blessings of his life. This sentiment guided him to marry Pearley Gertrude Briggs, with whom he built a family. From their union, eight children were born, and he devoted himself to being a loving and faithful husband and father. He worked diligently to ensure his family's comfort and happiness, instilling in his children the values of loving and fearing God. He emphasized that embracing Christianity was among the most significant endeavors in life. Those who came to know his children would recognize how deeply they upheld and remembered the lessons he imparted to them.

Picture: Reverend James Robert Vernon

Photo Courtesy of Glyniss Vernon Gordon

In Loving Memory of Clothidle Aaron Zanders 1912-2010

In writing the "obituary" of Mrs. Clotidle Aaron Zanders, one had to the of terms of memories. She was born in Amite, Louisiana, December 27, 1912, to the late Mike and Maggie Bush Aaron. Clotidle was known for her love of house plants, beautiful yard, and dressing for church on Sunday. Her interest in plants was enhanced with membership of the Gladiola Garden Club.

She served the church as president of the usher board as well as the willing Workers Club, Class leader forte Youth and as Leader of Leaders. She was a gifted seamstress. She also fed many West Side students during her tenure as manager fo the cafeteria for twenty seven years, finally retiring on June 2, 1978.

He marriage on July 25, 1929, to her childhood sweetheart, Robert Zanders, lasted for 55 years, 8 month. From this union one daughter, Delores. She departed for this life on Tuesday morning, November 16, 2010 at her home.

She leaves to cherish her memories: one daughter, Mrs. Delores X. Levy, Amite, one grandson, Shawn Levy, one sister, Mrs. Mildred Turner; one nephew, Mike Aaron, III and many other relatives and friends. 

Sources: Funeral Program of Clotidle Aaron Zanders

Courtesy of Richardson Funeral Home, Amite

Louisa Mahoney Mason Story "Enslaved by the Jesuit

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Edwin Temple Found Arrowheads on the Temple Homestead

Indian Arrowhead
Photo Credit: Antoinette Harrell

Can you imagine working in the field, disking up the dirt to plant the seeds for the produce. This is what happened to Edwin Temple who found several Indian arrowheads on the their property in Amite. "I was  rolling up roll with the fourteen rake" said Edwin.  Just north of Lake Pontchartrain in the Town of Amite, the parish seat. On the outskirts of the town in a rural community serveral Indian Arrowheads were found. 

The name Tangipahoa is derived from the Muskogean words (tranche pahoha) which translates to  "corncob people" or people of the corn. This is where Tangipahoa gets it name.  The Bayogoula, part of the Choctaw nation in, areas directly north of the Chitimachas in the parishes of St. Helena,  Tangipahoa, Washington, East Baton, Rouge, West Baton Rouge, Livingston, and St. Tammany genealogytrails.com

When I held the arrowheads in my hand, I felt like I step back in time. Touch and feeling something that the Native American made. I quickly started visualizing the time and period before Amite became what it is today. I felt interconnect to the Natives. Arrowhead can be as old as 14, 000 years old. They symboled courage, strength and protection.  They were introduced by the Native Indians during the ancient time.

The Tangipahoa village was destroyed in the 17th century, and any survivors. probably merged into the Acolapissa and Houma tribes, who later joined the Choctaws. I often think about Malinda Lawson who was a Choctaw Indian. She and her family lived in Ried's Community in Amite, Louisiana. 

I often think about purchasing a metal detector and search for rare coins and other metal treasures buried underground.  Edwin have held on to the arrowheads for over forty-years. He's thinking about way to preserve them. The one thing that Edwin pointed how is the skills it took to shape the arrow head in a point. In another observation, he notice the sides and shapes of each arrowhead. 

Joseph Franklin Pugh

Joseph Franklin Pugh (Joe Pugh) was born, February 28, 1950 in Greenville, Tennessee to the late Reverend Ernest Thomas Much, and the late Madlyn A. Pugh. He departed this lief on June 14, 2015 as he answered his call to join the Heavenly Choir. 

Joseph attended West Side High School where he played in the band under the direction of Mr. Duplessis. He graduated from West Side High in 1967. Joseph went on to attend Southern University where he received his B.S. Degree in Instrumental Music. H was a member of The Mighty Southern University Band (150) under the direction of the late Mr. Ludwig Freeman and the late Mr. Isaac Greggs. His position in the marching band was called March 00; right out front with concert band. While attending Southern University, he became a member of the music fraternity Phi Mu Alpha. In 1972, he participated in the great Louisiana Conference choir under the director of his sister Carrie Ann Pugh. He was an outstanding Bass-Baritone singer.

In 1975, Joseph enlisted in the United State Arm, where he served as Military Police during his career. On December 27, 1975, he united in holy matrimony to Joyce Ann Burton. To that union a beautiful baby girl Joelle LaShaun was born as he gained a daughter JonQuelle.

He became a member of the Turner Chapel A.M.E. Church, Rosalind, LA, where he was the musician and the choir director for one thirty years. He was also President of the Sons of Allen organization.

He leaves to cherish his memories, daughter Joelle Pugh Adam (Aaron) Hammond, La., and JonQuelle Johnson (Carl) Killian, LA, one brother, Jordan B. Pugh (Joan), Culver City, Ca., one sister Carrie Ann Pugh-Paul (Robert), one sister-in-law Barbara Pugh, a devoted companion Betty Marks, seven grandchildren, two great-grandchildren, a host of nieces, nephews, friends, and relatives. He was preceded in death by siblings; Thomas O. Pugh, Charles W. Pugh, and Coney L Pugh.

Source: The Funeral Program of Joseph Franklin Pugh

Courtesy of Richardson Funeral Home, Amite

Sarah Ann Sanders Belvin Raickett

Sarah Ann Sanders Belvins Ratchet

Sarah Ann Sanders Blevins Raickett, the ninth of ten siblings, was born on January 2, 1910, to Cass and Georgia Vernon Sanders, and she passed away on February 23, 2000, at 4:00 p.m. in the St. Helena Parish Nursing Home, surrounded by her daughter and grandson.

Mama led a fulfilling and profoundly blessed life, as recounted by her daughter Grace Belvins Walker. She resided in the Vernon Town community. After she married Alton and later relocated there following her father's death. In 1944, she remarried and moved to Amite, Louisiana, returning to Vernon Town after the death of her second husband. Her final move was back to Amite after a fire destroyed her home, where she lived for thirty-seven years. Mama was a steadfast participant in family events, including gatherings, graduations, weddings, baptisms, and other milestones. She also supported her son-in-law, Dr. Percy Walker, the first Black veterinarian in Amite and the surrounding communities. She assisted him in his daily operations and other responsibilities.

Her church life commenced at Mt. Canaan Baptist Church in Arcola and extended to Little Bethel Baptist Church upon her affiliation there. At Little Bethel, she served as a Sunday school teacher and Director of the Baptist Training Union, deriving great satisfaction from attending various church conferences and meetings.

Mourning her passing are her daughters, Grace B. Walker and Marjorie (Kozy) Barnes; her sister, Celestine Williams; five grandchildren; five great-grandchildren; and numerous nieces, nephews, and other relatives and friends.. 

Sources: Funeral Program for Sarah Ann Sanders Belvin Raickett

               Richardson Funeral Home, Amite

Homegoing Celebration fo Sister Fannie Joseph Daniels

Sister Fannie Joseph Daniels

On November 10, 1920, Sister Fannie Joseph Daniels (Maw Maw) was born to the late Etienne Joseph and Sarah Edna Neal Joseph in Darrow, Louisiana. One Monday morning, December 17, 2001, her natural vision faded and her view of the Master's fee was clear.

Sister Daniels received her early education at O.W. Dillon High School in Kentwood, Louisiana. After teaching for a brief period, she enrolled in Grambling State University, where she received her Bachelor's Degree in 1951. She furthered her education by obtaining a Master's Degree from Southern University and completing additional postgraduate hours at Southeastern Louisiana University. She worked as an educator in the Tangipahoa Parish School System for thirty-two (32) years.

Sister Daniels was an active member of the Tangipahoa Chapter of the Grambling Alumni Association. She was also a member of the Zeta Phi Beta Sorority.

Sister was married to Fred D. Daniels on September 16, 1942. God blessed them with one daughter, Abigail Veronica.

Sister Daniels leaves to celebrate her life, her loving husband, Fred D. Daniels of Amite, Louisiana; one devoted daughter, Abigail D. York (Kenneth) of Baton Rouge,  Louisiana; one sister, Owena Huren of Lake Charles, Louisiana; three grandchildren, Monica Holden of Houston, Texas, Brandon Richardson of Amite, Louisiana, and Marion York of Baton Rouge, Louisiana; one great-granddaughter, Brianna Dyson of Hammond, Louisiana; three godchildren, Walter "Bo" Harrison of Baton Rouge, Louisiana, Christine Carter Williams of Hammond, Louisiana, and Lynn Daniels of Amite, Louisiana; and a host of nieces, nephews, relatives, soarers and friends. 

She was preceded in death by her parents; two sisters, Evelyn Pierce and Marion Leona Joseph; and one brother, Arthur Joseph.

Source: Funeral Program for Sister Fannie Joseph Daniels

Courtesy of Richardson Funeral Home, Amite, Louisiana 

In Loving Memory of Clord Andrew "Brother" Crockeham

Clord Andrew "Brother" Crockerham was born to Ado Crockerham and Luvina Williams Crockerham on January 30, 1939 in Independence, Louisiana. He was the eldest of seven children.  Brother was educated in the Tangipahoa Parish School System, where he attended O.W. Dillon High School in Kentwood, Louisiana. He later enlisted in the United States Army. He served his country from 1956-1960. He received ad honorable discharge upon completion of his military service.

Brother was a skilled electrician, plumber, carpenter, and cement finisher in Louisiana, Kansas, and New Jersey. He will forever be remembered for his expertise and his willingness to assist his neighbors with any type of construction job. Brother was married o the late Ethel Louis Davis. From their union , three children were born: Ronald, Donald, and Debbie.

Brother attended church at Roseland Church of God in Christ and Tabernacle of Faith Church. Brother retired tote old landmark of his rearing in the church , as he confessed Jesus Christ as his personal Savior and his desire to be baptized. 

As the eldest child, Brother took his role of big brother very serious. He demonstrated his love and concern for his siblings each and every day. He spent time with his family sharing whatever he could. One of his greatest joys was sharing our family history, especially with his youngest great-nieces and great nephews.

Brother leaves to cherish his memory three sons-Ronald and Donal Davis of Camden,  New Jersey; and Donnell Brumfield of Twin Falls, Idaho; Two daughters-Debbie Crockerham of Collingswood, New Jersey; and Latasha Brumfield of Greensburg, Louisiana; Eight grandchildren; Two brothers-Ivy (Barbara) Williams of Atlanta, Georgia and Jerry (Nancy) Crockerham of Amite, Louisiana; Five sisters, Mary (Howard) Thompson and Barbara Crockerham of Amite, Louisiana; Linda and Viola Crockerham of Independence, Louisiana; and Debbie Allen of New Orleans, Louisiana; and a host nieces, nephews, family, and friends.

Brother was preceded in death by his mother and father; his paternal and maternal grandparents, two brothers---George Crockerham and James Crockerham; and two sisters--Ellen Chambers and Iola.

Source: Funeral Program for Cloud Andrew Crockerham

Contributor: Richardson Funeral Home, Inc. Amite, LA

Celebrating The Life of Bunea Fenestia McCray Harrison

Bunea Fenestia McCray Harrison

Bunea Fenestia McCray Harrison was born February 5, 1923 to Guy and Rhoda Ceaser McCray in Leesville, LA. She departed this life on July 2, 2005. Bunea was converted at the age of 9 years old and united with Mt. Olive Baptist Church under the leadership of  Rev. Alfred Graves. After moving to Roseland, LA in 1945, she moved her membership to Rose Valley Baptist Church. In 1946 she moved to Amite and united with the Little Bethel Baptist Church under the leadership of the late Rev. J.R. Vernon. She served faithfully under the leadership of Rev. Dr. Willard Vernon until his demise in 1994. Her work continued under the leadership of Rev. F.A. Davis, III Until her health began to fail. She was under the watch care of Rev. Raymond Jeston of Star Hill Baptist Church until her demise.

Bunea received her elementary and high school education in Vernon Parish. She received her B.S. degree from LA Negro Normal & Industrial Institute in Eduation, now Grambling State University, Grambling, LA.

Bunea touched and helped to mold many lives during her 31 years as a Junior High School Instructress in the public school system of Tangipahoa Parish.  Bunea is survived by one very loving son and his loving wife: Walter "Bo" (Lin) Harrison; one very loving daughter and her loving husband, Fenestia "June" (Shedrick) Griffin; three grandsons: Rashund, Christopher; and Shedron; one granddaughter: Shedricka; three great granddaughters: Kiera, Ne'Kailah, and Lyndsey; one great grandson: Xavier; two devoted nieces: Johnetta Russ and Sandra Harrison; two loving and devoted sisters-in-law: Kathryn Harrison and Everlina McCray; five sisters-in-laws; one godson; four chosen daughters Cassandera Simms (deceased), Helen Ross, Yvonne Collins, and Clardzell Harris; two chosen sons: Donald Walker and Davis Harris, the Little Bethel Baptist Church family, the Star Hill Baptist Family, a host of other nieces, nephews, and other relatives.

Bunea was preceded in death by her devoted husband, Walter Mot Harrison; loving parents and grandparents, two brothers, two sisters, and one stillborn son. 

Source: The Funeral Program of Bunea Fenestia McCray Harrison

Contributor: Richardson Funeral Home, Inc., Amite, Louisiana

A Homegoing Celebration For Sister Janie Bell Williams

Mrs. Janie Bell Williams

 Sis. Janie Bell Cutrer Williams was born to Dave Cutrer and Claudia Vernon Cutrer. at Stony Point, LA. on October 3, 1915. She grew up in the Mt. Canaan Community of Roseland, LA. Sister Williams was baptized at and early age at Mt. Canaan Baptist Church under the leadership of Rev. D. Johnson. She was united in Holy Matrimony to the late Joshua O.Williams, Sr. and became a member of Little Bethel Baptist Church under the leadership of Rev. Willard Vernon. She served diligently for some 50 years until her health failed. 

As faithful member she became a Deaconess, Secretary of the Missionary Board, a primary class Sunday school teacher, chairperson of the Program Committee and other events she served wholeheartedly to accomplished the Church's needs.

Sister Williams received her early education at the Mt. Canaan School and completed her high school training at the Tangipahoa Training School for Colored in Kentwood, LA., under the direction of Professor O.W. Dillon. She subsequently finished college at Grambling College in 1951. Her first teaching experience was in the Fluker, Louisiana, circa 1934. Sister Williams went on to teach school at Mt. Canaan with Principal Mary Vernon Cutrer and later finished her career at the old Amite Color Elementary School (Rosenwald) School and West Side High School totaling 37 years of dedicated work. Sister Williams is best know as a first grade teacher 'par excellence'. She serves a Librarian and Director of Food Service at both schools for many, many years. Sister Williams also taught night school at the Amite Color School. She was and ardent worker in the first Head Start Program and she served in other capacities and was perennial volunteers fo needed functions of the schools she served and her community. Sister Williams was honored by the Amite City Council as the only African American female in the mural depicted on the ceiling of the Amite City Hall. 

Sister Williams and her husband were founding members of the Martha Adam Alumni Association of Grambling College, the Young Men Social Club of Amite, and Tangipahoa Parish Retired Teacher's Association. They were also member of the Louisiana Educational Association.

Sister Williams was preceded in death by her parents, husband Joshua O. Williams, Sr.,  and brother Ivy Cutrer.  She is also preceded in death by  many aunts, two of whom she thought were her sisters, Cora Cutrer Johnson and Ardean Cutrer Leonard; and many other relatives.

Sister Williams leave to cherish her memories one son, Joshua O. Williams, Jr., M.D.; dedicated daughter-in-law, Alesia M. Williams, Ph.D.; two grandchildren, Jovonne Lorriane Williams, P.T., of Stone Mountain, GA., and Joshua Cutrer Marks Williams, PhD., Of New Orleans, LA; two brothers, John Wesley Cutrer (Edna) of Chicago, Ill, and Roy Cutrer of Martha's Vineyard, MA. She also leaves behind three aunts, two uncles, and a host of nieces, nephews, relatives and friends.

Source: 

Contributor: Richardson Funeral Home, Inc., Amite, Louisiana

"Celebration of Life" Robert Lee Richardson

 

Robert Lee Richardson

On Tuesday events, November 6, 2007, at 8:12 p.m. at North Oaks Medical Center in Hammond, Louisiana the angel of silence came and with chilling fingers, sealed the lips of Robert Lee Richardson. He is soul winged its flight from this world o sin, sorrow, and pain to a place of eternal rest.

Bro. Robert Lee Richardson was born in Roseland, Louisiana on March 31, 1966 to Mr. Alonzo Richardson and Mary Burton-Richardson

He professed his hon in Christ at an early age and was baptized at the Roseland Church of God in Christ. He was retired Car Salesman by profession, ordained  minister and he was Gospel singer that has traveled through the nation with various gospel artists.

He leaves to cherish his memory, three siblings, Alonzo Jr. (Reginald) Richardson of Roseland, Louisiana; Lolita Caldwell of Kansas City Missouri; Charlie Richardson of New Orleans, Louisiana, eight children, Darilyn (Emmanuel) Johnson of Independence, Louisiana; Marilyn Mitchell of Independence, Louisiana; Janice Hancock of Sand Siege, California; Vantress Richardson of Los Angeles, California; Arhonda (Wesley) Blackwell of Independence, Louisiana; Kathy Richardson of Los Angeles, California, Reginald Richardson of Natalbany, Louisiana; Uland Richardson of Ponchatoula, Louisiana; 21 grandchildren; 8 great-grandchildren, a host of cousins, other relatives and friends.

He was preceded in death by his mother, Mary Burton-Richardson; father Alonzo Richardson; brother, Tennessee Richardson; sister Pearl Richardson, Bonita Knighten, and Vivian Richardson. 

Source: Obituary of Robert Lee Richardson

Contributor: Richardson Funeral Home, Inc. Amite, Louisiana

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

My visit to Tangipahoa-Quinn-Brown Cemetery

Eliza Johnson Headstone
Photo Courtesy: Dr Antoinette Harrell

Today was such a beautiful and sunny day that I could resist taking a back road drive with my Canon camera as my companion. While driving down the road to the sound of some smooth jazz, the temperature was just right, and it couldn't get any better than this. I decided to go to Quinn's cemetery in the village of Tangipahoa. I went to my husband's uncle Leon's funeral, which was my first time in that cemetery.

You can see that they had just cut the grass, so I wasn't too concerned with snakes. However, I didn't let my guards down by no means. On the way in, I had to pass Leblanc Dairy and took a moment to take some photographs of the cattle. "Some of them looked at the camera as if they were saying," hurry up and take the picture. 

I wanted to find the oldest section in the cemetery to look at the headstones. I came across one monument that got my attention. It was of a woman named "Eliza Johnson' she was born in 1873 and died in 1918. I came back to my office and did some research on Eliza. They were married to Charles Johnson and was farm labor. She lived on Cross Roads W. Brick Yard & Saw Mill.

She and Charles had eleven children; Andrew, Ella, Daisy, Charles, Jr, Herman, Obby, Fred, Emile, and Carrie. In 1880, she was living in Ward 1 in the Village of Tangipahoa. Her parents were Howard and Sarah McGee. The 1880 United States Federal Census listed that her parents were from Kentucky. Her father, Howard, was born in 1820 in Virginia and did farm work. Eliza's husband Charles was in 1863; he was a bricklayer. Charles died in 1944. 

Only a decade after slavey was abolished Eliza was born. I wish that someone would have interviewed her and document her experience in Tangipahoa Parish. Tangipahoa Parish was formed in 1869 and she was born  a few years later. 

The Amite White Sox's

Amite White Sox's
Source: Ancestry 
Contributed by Michael Hughes
The picture represents three families who lived in the Amite City circa 1920
The Finn's, Johnson, and Tates Family

 

John Finn, Sr. of Amite, Louisiana.

John Finn, Sr, was born in 1900 to Marcel Finn and Samuella Tate Finn. John died in 1998 in New Philadelphia, Ohio. John was married to Mable Johnson.  Mable was born in 1903 in Amite, Louisiana. Her parents were Robert Allen Johnson and Maggie Steptoe. 

John and Mable had five children; Lula, Eva, Dorothy Ruth, and John Finn, Jr. His U.S., World War 1 Draft Registration Cards, 1917-1918 said that he was slender build, tall, black hair and black eyes. He was employed by the Light & Power Company. 

The Ohio, Rutherford B. Hayes Presidential Center Obituary Index, 18102-2013 recorded that he was ninety-eight years old when he died on November 14, 1998. 

John parents Marcel and Samuella (Tate) Finn had nine children. They were Lawrence Tude, John, Sr., Ruth Finn Johnson, Lucille Finn Bigelow, Morris M. Finn, Alphonso, Finn, Gertrude Finn, Nelson Finn, Sr., and Willie Huckberry Finn. 

When the Finn's family left the South during "The Great Migration" sometimes known as the Great Northward Migration or the Black Migration, six million African Americans out of the Rural Southern United States to the urban Northeast, Midwest, and West between 1916-1970.  

Jonathan Finn emailed me searching for his Finn family history connected to Amite, Louisiana. Johnathan is presently living in Upstate New York. He said that his ancestor Charles L. Finn, was a chauffeur and that maybe how the Finn family left the south. The origin of the Finn name derived from Irish, meaning "white" or "fair" the Finn family have a lot of family members listed as mulattos on the United States Federal Census. 

John Finn, Sr., and his wife Mable Johnson
Source: Ancestry Public Finn Family Tree

Carrie Butler Finn of Amite, Louisiana

Carrie Butler Finn
Source: William, Riley, Family Tree
Ancestry

Carrie Butler Finn was born in Amite, Louisiana in 1848 and died in Amite, Louisiana 1920. She was the daughter of Liza York and her father was unknown. Her mother Lisa York was born in 1805 and died in 1910. 

She was married to John Finn. They were the parents of  seven children; Marcel, Solomon, Fannie, Dallie, Joseph, John, and Charles Finn.  All their children was born in Amite, Louisiana Carrie named is also documented at Caroline Finn according to the United States 1870 Federal Census.  She was listed as a mulatto.  I also found her name to be Caroline (York) Saurtz Butler Finn.

Her husband John Finn, Sr., was born in 1836 and died in 1900. 

Charles Finn of Amite, Louisiana

Charles L. Finn
Sources: Ancestry

Charles L. Finn, was born in 1888 in Amite, Louisiana and died in in 1954 in Monticello, New York, He was the son of John and Carrie Butler Finn.

He was married twice, once to Martha and Mary  He and Martha were married in Ohio, County Marriage Records, 1774-1993. 

According to the U.S., World War 1 Draft Registration Cards, 1917-1918, Charles also lived in St. Tammany County, Louisiana. In 1940 he was a chauffeur, and rented his house. 

His wife  Martha (Mary) was a pastor and died in 1988, she is buried in Rock Ridge Cemetery in Monticello, New York. Charles.  

Elmer Finn is the son Charles L. Finn and Mary Dampier. Elmer was married's to Helen Finn. Johnathan Finn directly line is through John Finn. John was born in 1940 and died in 2000.

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. 

Walter and Minnie James of Tangipahoa Parish

Walter was was born March 8, 1885 in Tangipahoa Parish. He died at the age of seventy-six in 1962 in Tangipahoa. His home was in Roseland, Louisiana. He was married to Minnie Pope and they were the parents children; Hardie, Solomon, Murdock, S. J, Lillie, Alfred, Albert, Annie, Magdalene, Rosa Lee, and Walter James. 

157 Years Later Our Harrell Families Reunite

Primus Harrell Descendants Zoom Meeting

I'm the 5th great-granddaughter of Primus Harrell. Primus was held as a slave on Leroy Harrell plantation.   Leroy"Fat Ole Levi" Harrell migrated from South Carolina with his family, livestock, belongings, and  enslaved people. I've spent decades researching and studying the Harrell history to learn more about my family. Yes, records can be very challenging to find for anyone whose ancestors were held as slaves. Prior to the 1870 United States Federal Census, our enslaved ancestors were listed in the slave schedules by gender and age only, making it very complex and difficult to find them.

I've traveled to Darlington, South Carolina, Virginia,  Mississippi, and East Feliciana in search of my ancestors. I know they want me to find them and tell their story; it's a very strong conviction that you get inside of you about those who came before you. I'm determined to listen to their voices and follow their path. 

Whenever I meet anyone from those places, I often wonder if they are related somehow. Genealogy research had evolved so much since I started researching decades ago. There is Ancestry DNA, more public trees, social media sites, and databases available now. 

Several years ago, I met Lenora Jenkins and Leon Coleman through their public trees. They are the descendants of Thomas Harrell. Thomas Harrell and my 4th great grandfather Randall Harrell were brothers. They are the only two sons we know that Primus Harrell had; however, that doesn't mean that there may not be others. 

I feel like I'm in a dream sometimes because I'm so excited to meet and learn more about a branch of our Harrell family and introduce them to others in the family. Using zoom, we meet on Sunday evenings, sharing oral history, documents, photographs, and discussing our brick walls in our research. 

One hundred and fifty-seven years later, Primus descendants are coming together for the first time. Often , you will hear stories about the slaveholders and the former enslaved children coming together.  Our story is uniques because we're  coming together to meet each other after our ancestors were sold off or given to other family members in their family.

Harrell Ancestry DNA

Without the Ancestry DNA and family trees, it would be very challenging to connect the family lineage. East Feliciana, Louisiana, is the common denominator for our families. Most of our connections link back to East Feliciana. We are diving hard into the slavery research, looking at slavery inventories, wills, and succession to find any information that could help reconnect our extended lost family once again. 

Suzette Dominque and Karran Harper Royal specialize in connecting our families through Ancestry DNA. Monteral Harrell is the keeper of Harrell's family photographs dating back to the late 1800s. Leon Coleman research, studies, and analyze slavery records. Jo-ann Lewis Frazier and Carolyn Adam-Rex share the oral history that was past down through the generations. Lenora spends a lot of time connecting the history of the Harrells in Caldwell parishes and has the family bible of her ancestors with genealogy records. 

We all are enthusiastic and excited to share, discover,  and document our Harrell family history. We have no idea where this journey will take us but one thing that is certain, we're ready to go where it leads us. I sat at my desk just thinking about how 157 years later and we are still searching for our family just like our ancestors did when they received their freedom. Some walked for miles and days on looking for their  children, husband, wife, and siblings.  Most African American who ancestors were enslaved will agree with me. That our genealogy research isn't a hobby, it is repairing and restoring knowledge of self. 

The History of Tennessee and Reba Matthews Jackson of St. Helena Parish

Reba Jackson 

Tennessee Jackson was born in April 1908 in Darlington, Louisiana. According to the 1920 United States Federal Census, Tennessee  lived in the household of his uncle Wesley Jackson and his aunt Francis. 

Tennessee attended Black Creek school, and Reba attended Crossroads schools. Although they didn't finish high school, they received an education that life taught them. One thing for sure they could count money. They made a good profit from their crops. Their thirteen children  worked on the farm with their parents farming, planting, and harvesting. They grew all kinds of vegetables and sold them on the market. The owners a two hundred plus acre farm and horses and mules. They also raised cattle for their meat and sold some.  

The family smokehouse was used to cook and sell the meat. Tennessee made homemade syrup for sell, and he gave some to the helpers on his farm. People in the community knew Tennessee and Reba as "Tennee" and "Rebbie." They both had a strong voice in their community and were pillars in  their community. The Jackson was independent farmers in Greensburg, Louisiana and help other farmers when they need a helping hand. All the farmers would help each other back in those days and barter with each other. Tennessee was well known for being the first farmer with the largest bales of cotton during the cotton season. In his senior years, he worked as a custodian at St. Helena elementary school. He also worked in the FHA office assisting others in the community with getting loans and grants to buy their own homes.  Some of his sons worked with their uncles, neighbors, and their grandfather and learned how to lay bricks, build houses and chimneys. Their daughters became homemakers and hairdresser. The youngest of their children left Greensburg, and started a new life as an entrepreneur in California. 

They were the parents of Charles, Jerry, Evelyn, Louise, Leola, Tennessee, Jr., Dorothy, Gloria, Ernest, Matthew, Leary, Lemard, and Emmitt Jackson. The family worshipped at Darlington Church of God in Christ. He served as a deacon and Reba served as a church mother. Some of their children served on the usher board and Sunday school staff. They were baptized in the Darlington River. Many of their deceased loved ones are buried in Darlington and Turner Cemetery. 

This family story was submitted to Dr. Antoinette Harrell by Elisha D. Jackson.

Jeanette Miller Roberts Was Beaten in the Hammond City Jail in 1947

James Osby Roberts Registration Card

On  February 21, 1947,  Jeanette Miller Roberts was accused by her uncle of stealing his money. She was taken to Hammond City Jail by Marshal Victor G. Anderson and Chief of Police John Wesley Bales. She was questioned about the money and was forced to disrobe from waist down and was beaten.  Someone is looking for family members of Jeanette Miller Roberts. What happen to Jeanette? Are there any family members in the area that can recall the incident? How did she lose her baby? Did she have other children. Is she still living? 

Jeanette was married to a man named James O. Roberts in Amite, Louisiana. He was born in Amite, Louisiana in 1924. He moved to Hammond and was living in the household with Dorothy Robe After the incident, she moved to New Orleans to live with her uncle Lee Cook, and aunt Pearl Cook. They lived at 1303 Willow Street. 

James was born in Amite, Louisiana in 1924. He moved to Hammond and was living in the household with Dorothy Roberts. James died on December 28, 2014, in San Francisco, California. If anyone know of any Powell's and Roberts, please contact me. 

If you have information, please email me at afrigenah@yahoo.com

Breaking barriers in Harrell research with DNA testing

Little Egypt Plantation, East Feliciana, LA 

It is common among genealogists to delve into family history in search of answers and insights into the past; the process of tracing one's ancestors often proves to be a prolonged and painstaking endeavor. In my case, my Harrell ancestors were among those who endured slavery's harsh realities, having been held in bondage on the Levi Harrell plantation. Levi Harrell, along with his family, migrated from South Carolina to the Mississippi Territory during a period of territorial expansion and transformation. The Mississippi Territory, an organized and incorporated region of the United States, was established on April 7, 1798, following the admission of its western half into the Union as the State of Mississippi. In 1803, Levi Harrell relocated his family, possessions, and enslaved individuals to this area, ultimately settling near the Pretty Creek river in East Feliciana, where they established their new lives.

I undertook the task of tracing the history of the slaveholders as part of my efforts to explore my ancestry. Several years ago, I decided to take the Ancestry DNA test in order to gain insight into some of my lineages. Through this process, I discovered a match with an individual bearing the surname White. This connection prompted me to investigate further to understand how I might be related to the family of Mahetabel. My research revealed that I was linked to a person named Elizabeth Marter, who was predicted to be my 5th to 8th cousin. Our shared DNA amounted to 16 cM across a single segment. Upon examining her family tree, I found a woman named Mahetabel Hannah Harrell. Mahetabel was married to John Alexander White in East Feliciana Parish, Louisiana, and they were the parents of Lewis H, James, John, Lydia, Matilda, Frances, Henry, Janet, Margaret, and Micajah White.

Mahetabel was born in the year 1814 in the locality of Pretty Creek, situated in East Feliciana, and she passed away in 1889 within the same region of East Feliciana. She resided on a plantation known as Egypt, located in East Feliciana Parish, Louisiana, alongside her husband. She was the daughter of Levi Harrell, Jr., and Elizabeth Brian Harrell, with her lineage tracing back to this familial connection. Additionally, she had siblings who were part of her family structure.

My fourth great-grandfather was a man by the name of Randall Harrell. According to records, in the year 1870, he resided in Union Parish within the household of Benjamin Harrell. Randall and Priscilla Blackburn were married on December 26, 1867, in Union Parish, Louisiana; at the time of their marriage, Randall was seventy years old, while Priscilla was sixty-five years old. Following Randall's death, Priscilla relocated to East Feliciana, where their son, Robert Harrell, was living alongside his wife, Dinah, and their children.

Randall's father was identified as Primus Harrell; however, despite extensive efforts, the identity of his mother remains unknown. Descendants of Thomas and Randall Harrell regularly convene through Zoom conference calls to exchange information, deepen their understanding of their shared family history, and foster collaboration. Currently, the only two known children of Primus Harrell are Thomas and Randall. During these gatherings, Harrell family genealogists present their research using a variety of methods, including PowerPoint presentations, oral histories, and photographic evidence. Notably, Suzette Domingue, a descendant of Thomas, and Karran Harper Royal, a descendant of Randall, engage in discussions about the DNA connections identified through platforms such as Ancestry and 23andMe. These discussions highlight a significant number of DNA matches between Thomas's descendants and other individuals on both Ancestry and 23 and Me.

In addition to these collaborative efforts, I have conducted searches for public family trees on Ancestry to identify others researching their Harrell lineage. This search revealed forty-two trees that reference Primus Harrell. The Harrell family has been traced to several parishes in Louisiana, including Winn, St. Helena, Rapides, Tangipahoa, Grant, Caldwell, Union, East Carroll, West Carroll, East Feliciana, Iberville, and Calcasieu. This geographical spread underscores the extensive reach of the Harrell family's history and connections across the region.

Joseph Deamer, Sr. & Louella Richardson Deamer of Tangipahoa Parish, Louisiana

Joseph Deamer
Photo Courtesy: Lorriane Lizana

Joseph (Joe) Deamer was born  in September 1887 and died in 1965. According to his U.S. World War I Draft Registration Card, he said that his birthplace was Garyville, Louisiana.  His wife Louella Richardson Deamer was born in January of 1892 and died in April of 1979.

They were the parents of nine children: Leslie, Ernest, Clara, Ella, Joseph, Jr, Leroy, Pearl, Thelma, and Bertha. They lived in St. Helena Parish early in their marriage. Joe was and, entrepreneur and Louella was a homemaker. Joseph was a contractor of wooden ties for the railroad. The family later moved to the Neola Farm off Highway 51 in Amite and later purchased forty-acres in Fluker, Louisiana. 

He grew cotton, sugar cane, and a variety of vegetables. He made homemade syrup and packaged it in tin cans. As a truck farm, he often drove to New Orleans to sell his produce in the French Markets. Most of his children didn't like working on the farm and pursued their education. Four of their children earned their Master Degrees and one a PhD in education.  I was happy that E. Lorriane Lizana, MBA, share the Deamer's history with me to share with others. Lorriane is a Certified VA Real Estate Professional and Certified Pricing Strategy Advisor. Lorraine and her husband Chuck are the authors or Authentic Southern Cooking with Chuck and Miss Lorriane: Home Cooking with New Orleans.

Louella was the daughter of Thomas Richardson. Thomas was born about 1866 in St. Helena Parish,

Louella Richardson Deamer

Louisiana. He was listed as a mulatto, and his wife was deceased. Thomas's  mother's name was Rebecca Richardson. Living in the house with him was his children and mother: Louella, Nettie, Willie, and Ernest Richardson. His mother, Rebecca Cubard was living with him as well.

I found  both of his parents in the 1870 United States Federal Census. Tom's father was named Alfred Richardson. His sibling was: Wilson, Albert, Jr., Delphine, Josephine, William,  Minnie, and Tom Richardson.

My maternal 3rd great-grandparents Thomas and Amanda Breland Richardson, are buried in Rocky Hill AME Church Cemetery. I've seen the headstone with Rebecca's name on it and, I thought to myself, are Thomas and Rebecca related somehow. Rebecca was born around 1831 and died in 1916.

Now, I must research a little deeper to see if my Richardson family is related in any way to Tom Richardson and Rebecca Cubard Richardson. The one thing about small communities everyone is connected somehow, through marriages, distant cousins, are community families. 

Rebecca Richardson
Source: Find A Grave

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.