We are sorry to learn of the death of Rev. Richard Taylor, formerly of Morton, and the son of the late George Taylor and Mrs. Ethel Taylor. At the time of his transition, Rev. Taylor, former Pastor at Friendship Church in Forest, was pursuing his doctorate at Morgan State in Baltimore, Maryland. He was a 1987 graduate of Morton High School and Jackson State University, operated a day care center in Forest, and was actively involved in civic and community activities. Our prayers are with his family, especially his son Rashard, mother Mrs. Ethel Taylor, and sister Mrs. Renae McBride. Please keep them in your prayers. Memorial arrangements are incomplete.
We are sorry to learn of the transition of Mr. Al Morgan of Carthage who died Monday, May 4th at his Carthage, MS home. Memorial services are incomplete. Our prayers are with his family especially his wife, Mrs. Gwen Carson Morgan. Please keep them in your prayers.
Our prayers are with the family of Mr. Wayne Lewis who was memorialized Saturday, May 9th at Midway M. B. Church with a graveside service. He transitioned May 4th. Our prayers are with his family especially his wife, Mrs. Sherry Lewis. Please keep his family in your prayers. Evans Memorial Funeral Home was in charge of arrangements.
We are sorry to learn that Little Richard, a/k/a King/Father of Rock & Roll, Living Flame, and Georgia Peach, transitioned at the age of 87. One of 11 children, Little Richard, was known for his hits, “Long Tall Sally,” “Tutti Fruitti,” “Good Golly Miss Molly,” and several others. He was recognized for his soul, hip-hop, and funk music by the music world. This atomic bomb inspired and mentored many including the Beatles and Rolling Stones. He is a legend in many fields and aspects of music and entertainment. He will be missed.
We are sorry to learn of the death of Ms. Betty Wright, six-time Grammy nominee known for hits “Clean up Woman,” “No Pain No Gain,” and “Tonight Is the Night.” She died Friday, May 8th at her home in Miami. She was a background vocalist for Erykah Badu, Stevie Wonder, Alice Cooper and others. She coached Kelly Clarkson, Michael Jackson, and Tom Jones.
Our prayers are with the family of Ms. Ruth Shirley of Jackson. Soror Shirley transitioned May 2nd at the age of 97. Following her retirement from the public schools, she continued her involvement in the community through the struggles for justice. Ms. Shirley was recognized as the dean of the Hinds County Election Commission where she served for more than 25 years. Like her brother, Dr. Aaron Shirley, she was a graduate of Tougaloo College.
We are sorry to learn of the transition of former Alcorn Coach Marino Casem. A private graveside service was held May 2nd in Baton Rouge, LA. This national Hall of Famer was head coach at Alcorn for 22 seasons and during that time, his team won seven SWAC football championships. He was a lifetime member of Kappa Alpha Psi, and is survived by his wife of 63 years, Mrs. Betty Jean Casem. Please keep his family in your prayers.
Please remember, in your prayers, our readers who are facing health challenges, namely, Angel Martinez, Mrs. Bessie Walker, Patrolman Michael Holifield, Mrs. Ernestine White, Mrs. Doretha Sturgis, Mrs. Kitty Colbert, Mrs. Flo Chambers, and Mr. Mitchell and Mrs. Mary Nichols.
For readers who enjoy camping and the outdoors, most state parks have reopened and campers are welcomed to return. In MDWFP’ monthly newsletter, MDWFP Director of Park Operations Andre’ Hollis encouraged visitors to use the State Parks, He also advised campers to follow CDC and MS Department of Health guidelines when using camp facilities and continue to practice social distancing.
Alderwoman Cynthia Slaughter Melton enjoyed her May 9th birthday by celebrating, via social distancing, with her family. Her daughter Attorney Teselyn and Reginald Funches and daughters Caelyn and Courtney surprised her, with masks and all, with birthday cupcakes, ice cream, balloons, and other party goodies. In her motherly way, she blew kisses, with her mask on, through the door, and she was showered with gifts and love from her sisters. She enjoyed the party which was a celebration of her birth and motherly role for Mother’s Day. Happy birthday Cindy!!!
We enjoyed hearing from Ms. Sylvia Holifield who called to check on Forest residents during this quarantine time. She is the daughter of the late DeWitt Holifield and Mrs. Alice Faye Hughes Holifield, both members of the 1963 Hawkins High School class. She sends her best wishes.
A beautiful tribute was given to Mothers by First Lady Regina Thomas during Sunday service at Little Rock M. B. Church. Following this tribute and a pictorial tribute to Mothers. Pastor Sheldon Thomas continued the tributes to Mothers. He reminded us of our challenge with his sermon entitled “You’ll Get Your Promise When God Gets His Praise!” He referenced the ‘P31 Woman’ as he referenced that Mothers have values and make great impressions on their children and others.
Rather than wait until Mother’s Day to appreciate Mothers, he encouraged listeners to remember that every day is the time to honor our Mothers. He challenged members to praise God during the good, bad, and ugly. In closing, he noted that the Bible is the mouth of God, and inquired if we are a window or a mirror. He thanked all Mothers for making sacrifices for their children. We enjoyed this service via YouTube and celebrated the beauty and dedication of Mothers. We are looking forward to next Sunday’s service.
Answer to Quiz Teaser #566: Mrs. Fannie Procter Bradford was the longest serving African American elected official in Scott County. She served as Election Commissioner from 1984 through 2013. She still provides invaluable advice and assistance.
Quiz Teaser #567: Who was the first and only African American Jeanes Supervisor in Scott County?
