TYRIFFIC COMMUNITY AWARDS HALL OF FAME

Rev. Dr. Waldo Robinson is the son of the late Early Robinson, and the late Flonnie Robinson.  He was born in Lancaster County, SC on February 24.  He is married to Jean Louallen Robinson.  They reside in Jefferson, SC, and have five children:  Rev. A. D. Robinson, Lisa, Ricky, Ronnie, and Dwayne; two daughters-in-law, nine grandchildren, and eight great-grandchildren.

Dr. Robinson preached his first sermon at Mt. Canaan Baptist Church, Jefferson, SC on October 17, 1976.

Dr. Robinson served as pastor of Gethsemane Missionary Baptist Church, Kershaw, South Carolina from January 1977 – 1989, and Mt. Calvary Missionary Baptist Church, Pageland, South Carolina from March 1991 – 2000.

In 1990, two of Dr. Robinson’s congregations (First Kershaw and Gethsemane Missionary Baptist Churches) merged together to form one congregation, which is presently the First Kershaw Missionary Baptist Church.

During 1993 Dr. Robinson spent 11 days in the Holy Land

• Baptized in the Jordan River

• Baptized seven individuals in the Jordan River

• Preached a sermon on the Mount of Beatitudes

• Visited Bethlehem, Nazareth, Galilee, Tiberius, Mt. Olive, Egypt, The Dead Sea, The Mountain of Transfiguration, Jerusalem, Capernaum, Jericho, Calvary, The tomb of the resurrection, and the Valley of the Shadow of Death (mentioned in Psalms 23 where David walked.

Current Pastor of:

First Kershaw Missionary Baptist Church – Kershaw, SC (since November 28, 1976) - Dr. Robinson retired in 2025 as pastor.

Rose Hill Missionary Baptist Church – Lancaster, SC (since September 17, 1979) - Dr. Robinson retired in 2025 as pastor.

Education

• Northside Elementary School – Kershaw, South Carolina

• Hillside High School – Heath Springs, South Carolina

 Religious Studies

Morris College – Sumter, SC (received BTH Degree)

Benedict College – Columbia, SC

Shaw University – Raleigh, NC

Teamer School of Religion – Charlotte, NC (received Doctorate of Divinity Degree)

ITC (through Benedict College) – Columbia, SC

Past & Current Offices held

• Past Moderator - St. Paul Missionary Baptist Association – Chesterfield County, SC (served as moderator from 1981-2013)

• Past Moderator - Mt. Peaceful Missionary Baptist Association - Lancaster County, SC

• Past Supervisor of the South Carolina Ushers of the Baptist E&M Convention

• Past Gospel Radio Host – WCPL FM – Pageland, SC (23 years)

• Past Instructor for the Morris College School of Religion, Kershaw Extension (instructing ministers)

• Member of Morris College Board of Trustees

Hobbies

• Martial Arts – (Universal Karate) - on September 26, 2003 earned his 1st degree black belt from Waiters’ Martial Arts – Universal Karate, Pageland, South Carolina

• Exercising - Enterprise Gym – Monroe, NC

Gennell Cauthen was the 9th child born to Hazel Mingo and Sallie Shropshire Mingo in Heath Springs, S.C.

Gennell was a quiet child, yet she would control her younger sister during play time. She loved to play teacher, she would be the teacher and her sister was the student. This activity soon became a daily ritual. Those days helped Gennell develop a love of learning and she loved sharing what she had learned with others. Her mother, her first teacher, would encourage her to read, she would even allow her to read her mail, personal or otherwise.  Gennell’s father was hurt in an accident and at the time, she thought that she would become a nurse, that is, until she saw blood.

Although Gennell was accidentally shot in her face with a bb gun which caused significant damage to the nerves on the left side of her face, she would not let harsh words from schoolmates keep her from her dream. Encouraging words from an evangelist, teachers, family and others allowed her to see her purpose very clearly, God was right there leading the charge.

Gennell loved sewing and cooking, so she decided to pursue a major in Home Economics Family and Consumer Science. After graduating from College, she put in one application, had one interview, and was hired by the Lancaster County School System as a 7TH grade life science teacher at South Jr. High where she taught for 18 years. She transferred to Lancaster High School to serve as a guidance counselor, she became the director of Guidance where she served 16 years prior to retirement. She was asked to come out of retirement and was employed at McDonald Green Elementary School, she worked there for 2 more successful years and decided to help her family members who needed health assistance.

Gennell is an active member of United Bible Way Church of Lancaster where she attends Church School, Bible Study, and Sunday Services and all other programs. She is the Executive Board Secretary, Church Group Leader, Member of the Missionary, the Sisterhood Ministry, Treasure of the Deaconess, Co-Chaired the Men’s and Women’s Conference, Co-chaired the Seasoned Saint’s and Pastor’s Aid and she participates in other activities whenever possible. Prior to becoming a member of United Bible Way, she was a dedicated member of New Hope Missionary Baptist Church, in Heath Springs where she helped to organize adult education classes and she taught English, History and Typing. She taught the young adult Sunday School class, sang on the praise team, and was involved in leading various church committees.

She holds several degrees: A  B. S. in Home Economics Family and Consumer Science from S.C. State College, a Master’s in Education from Winthrop University, and a Master’s in Guidance and Counseling from Winthrop. She has taken many classes from the University of SC and USC Lancaster.

A lifetime member of Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Inc., and a past member of the Foundation for the Carolina’s, NEA, SCEA, LCEA, the College Board, School Testing Coordinator, and various other counseling organizations.

Gennell was married to Hazel Cauthen for 52 years, who went to be with the good Lord in October 2020.  A daughter, Shana Cauthen and a son, Clint Cauthen were born to this union. Shana and their granddaughter, Tesia also went to be with the Lord prior to Hazel’s transition. They have two granddaughters and one great granddaughter and three great grandsons.

God has been good to Mrs. Cauthen throughout her life as she answered daily to God’s will.  She is truly a child of the King and when He calls her home. She wants Him to say, “Well done my good and faithful servant. .Come on in.”

 Pamela Stewart the oldest daughter of the late Willie L. and Ethel Witherspoon Stewart was born on September 15, 1966 in Bronx, New York. After her father completed Mortuary School, he relocated his family to Lancaster County, South Carolina in the year of nineteen hundred and seventy-two with ambitions to own a funeral home leaving his legacy for his children.

Pamela is known to her family and friends as "Pam" recognized at an early age she wanted to pursue a career in the funeral business industry as her father did at a young age.

Pamela, a 1984 graduate of Lancaster High School, matriculated at American Academy McAllister Institute of Mortuary Science , graduated in 1986 and passed the National  Boards. She began her apprenticeship with her father.   After completion of her apprenticeship, she passed South Carolina 's oral and written exam.  She became the first female Mortician in the Lancaster, Kershaw and Chester County Area. Later, she decided to attend Dudley University where she obtained her license as a Master Barber after passing the State Board. After passing the state board exam she worked in a couple of barbering shops developing her skills and techniques. Several years later she opened Strictly Business Barbershop with encouragement from her dear friend Melissa.  During that time, Pam worked closely with her father at Stewart Funeral Home, in which, he founded in 1977. After his demise, she became the manager of the business. Pam, her brother, Ricardo and sister, Shelia works to improve the business with innovative ideas. Pamela, also acquired knowledge to make flowers, where she served her apprenticeship at La’Chaun’s Florist in Rock Hill to add another service to the funeral home.

 Pamela continued her studies at USC-Lancaster and began working at Duracell.  She returned back to USC- Lancaster after retiring from Duracell and earned two degrees, an Associate Degree in Business science and an Associate Degree in Business.

 Pamela is an active member of White Oak AME Zion Church, where she is a member of the Steward Board, Women’s Auxiliary and the Mass Choir.

Pamela is a member of the South Carolina Morticians Association, Inc, South Carolina Funeral Directors Association, National Funeral Directors & Morticians Association, Inc., One Hundred Black Women of Funeral Service and Epsilon Nu Delta Mortuary Fraternity, Inc. She has received various awards which includes Fifth District Funeral Professional of the year, Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Inc Outstanding Entrepreneur Award, Tri-County Golf Club, Inc., Mt. Moriah Baptist Association and Omega Psi Phi Fraternity, Inc. Community Service Award, Lancaster County African American Unsung Hero recipient and recognized in other capacities.

Pamela is very active in the community. She is a Board Member for the United Citizens Community Center, Advisory Board Member for the Lancaster Department of Social Service, Promise Neighborhood, and the Town of Heath Springs, board member for the Educational Foundation of USCL and Lifetime Member of the NAACP, She is a former member of the Optimist Club, Lancaster County Community Relations Committee, Adopt-a-Leader Program, Lancaster County Syphilis and Aids Elimination  Board of  Directors and  Board Member of the Lancaster Fatherhood Project, but still work assisting  them with some projects . Pamela sponsors two community events per year, which is a Community Easter Egg Hunt and a Memorial Program. Both are well attended with over two hundred and fifty people in attendance.

Bobby Bailey was an educator for many years, including schools in the

Lancaster County School District. Mr. Bailey is from the Raleigh Durham area of

North Carolina and has lived in Lancaster for a number of years now.

He was married to the lovely Thelathia Barnes Bailey, and this union

lasted until Mrs Bailey’s transition in 2016. The Bailey’s adopted

Mr. Keeonn Wilson, and Mr. Bailey is very proud of him. Today

you can find Mr. Bailey cooking for his catering company,

“An Expression of Taste”, which caters for local groups by providing

 meals that are uniquely delicious and different that have a

southern theme. These words from Mr. Bailey pretty much

wraps him up in a nutshell.

“I am a retired educator who last served as

Principal in SC and MS. I also taught English and Drama

in the Lancaster County School District. I was inducted into

the Lancaster County Schools "HALL OF FAME" for my work

 with youth and education in the community of

Lancaster County. I am also the Founder and Director

of Adopt a Leader Mentoring which has served hundreds

 of young at-risk males since 1992. In the last few years,

 I have started cooking and catering and thoroughly.

enjoy creating great southern cuisine. I have recently

 won several awards and distinctions for my food!” Mr. Bailey passed away on December 27, 2023 at the age of 67.

Rosa L. Vinson, daughter of Eugene Cornelius and Wilhemenia Adamson (both deceased) was born on October 24, 1945, in Catawba SC. She was reared with four siblings, Betty Crawford, Lois Funderburk (deceased), Yvonne Campbell, and Leon Cornelius (deceased). Rosa currently resides in Lancaster SC. She was a devoted wife to the late Bennie H. Vinson for over 49 years. To this union, they had four children, Harold W. Vinson, Alan D. Vinson, Emily A. Anthony, and Pamela S. Truesdale. And a host of grandchildren and great-grandchildren.  

Rosa moved to Lancaster during her adolescent years and graduated from Barr Street High school in 1964. While in high school, she took a 2-year Cosmetology course where she passed the state board exam and was awarded her Cosmetology license under Mrs. Dorothy A. Pressley. Rosa enjoyed this class; it was her favorite. Mrs. Dorothy was not only a great teacher, but a mother figure to Rosa as well. After passing her exams and graduating, she went on to work in Mrs. Marie’s Beauty Shop on Gay Street in Lancaster, SC.  

After working with Marie for years she had an appreciation for which turned out to be a beautiful program. Years passed and Mrs. Marie grew tired so she asked Rosa if she would like to buy her beauty shop. Rosa delightedly answered yes and did just that. She moved out and Rosa took over, changing the name to Gay Street Beauty Shop where she had four other women working alongside her. As the years progressed, Rosa decided to build her very own shop at home so that she could be with her children more. God blessed her to get it done and she named it, Rosa’s Parlor of Beauty. The shop staffed ten stylists over the years, which included Mrs. Helen Dixon, Rev. Joann Cook, Pastor Monica Ross, Prescilla Blackmon, Emma Moore, and Annie Cauthen. Her daughter, Emily, worked with her for years, and later, her oldest granddaughter, Sharita, also came to work with her, having three generations of Cosmetologist. 

Rosa truly has a heart for people and her community. Over the years she has touched and been a blessing to so many, especially those she had the pleasure of being their beautician. Rosa and her late husband became licensed foster parents in February 1986 by the state of SC. Til this day her former foster children call and visit her, being a blessing and checking on her when they get a chance to.  

Rosa was ordained into the ministry of our Lord and savior Jesus Christ May 1981, under the leadership of the late Harold L. Wheeler. In July 1998, Rosa had the opportunity to take the word of God to Liberia in Africa. It was a rewarding experience she will cherish forever. She received an associate degree in biblical studies April 21,2002 and a Bachelor of Science degree in Biblical Studies September 14, 2003, from C.E. Graham Baptist Bible College in Columbia S.C. Rosa is the founder of Compassion Outreach Radio Ministry that came on at 7:30am every first and fifth Sunday of the month on WAGL 1560. She is the assistant Pastor of Deliverance Word of Faith Church in Lancaster, SC. Rosa is also the President of the International Outreach Ministries of Lancaster, SC to Liberia. Rosa served as Chaplin of the United Hair Design Club of Lancaster SC where they met once a month. She also served as the president of the Community Crime watch program of Lancaster (in her area). 

Rosa also served as a volunteer hair stylist for the residents at the Lancaster Convalescent Center. In addition to that, Rosa donated her time helping with the Girls Home of Lancaster. The girls would get permission from their house parents to get their hair done by Rosa. She was a mother figure and friend to anyone in need. She along with others put together a program that was held at Barr Street High School to raise money for clothes and personal items for the girls. The program was a remarkable success.  Today, you can find Rosa retired and still volunteering to help anyone in need as she has done for so many years.

Mrs. Mable H. Mickle is the recipient of our Education Award for her excellency as an educator, her career spanned over 38 years. Her teaching career began in a one-room school in Kershaw County, where she served as the administrator, teacher and custodian. Throughout her long teaching career, she has had an impact on thousands of students and their parents. Mrs. Mickle was instrumental in affecting a smooth transition in the early phases of integration of schools in Kershaw. She was selected as the first black teacher to teach at Kershaw.  In 2015 Mrs. Mickle was inducted into the Lancaster School District Hall of Fame. Mrs. Mickle attends church at Mt. Zion Baptist Church in Heath Springs, SC. Mrs. Mickle was married for over 60 years to the late Mr. John Mickle, and they have three daughters together, and one grandson. She still resides in Kershaw, SC.

The Jones Brothers are the recipients of our Music Award for their excellency in music. The Mr. Henry Jones organized the group in1968 with his brothers. The group have been singing God’s praises for nearly fifty‐one years. Over the years the Jones Brothers have had the opportunity to sing with many national known groups such as: The Canton Spirituals, Willie Banks and the Messengers, Doc McKenzie & The Hi‐Lites, The Swanee Quintet, The Bolton Brothers, Robert Blair and the Violinaires, Brooklyn All‐Stars, The Mighty Clouds of Joy, Shirley Caesar, Lee Williams and the Spiritual QCs, and many more.The group today is composed of five brothers, Henry, Curtis, Lovett, Robert, and John. The brothers attend New Hope A.M.E. Zion Church in Lancaster. Their first project recorded was entitled “Good‐Bye World” and they are currently in the process of recording our second project “We Need a Break Through”.

Mr. Larry D. Dixon Jr. was a pioneer in civil rights in Lancaster. Mr. Dixon served as local NAACP president from 1989-96. After his tenure as president, he served as chairman of the Freedom Fund Committee. He was instrumental in Lancaster County honoring Martin Luther King Jr.’s birthday before it became a federal holiday. He inspired the city, the county, the school district and some industries to recognize it as a holiday. Mr. Dixon also pushed for the creation of single-member districts rather than at-large districts for the county and city councils and the school board, increasing minorities’ chances to serve on local governing boards. Mr. Dixon was a member of the New Hope Baptist Church in Lancaster, SC. Sadly, we lost Mr. Dixon on September 3, 2016. His work for the Lancaster community is still recognizable today.

Mr. James McMullen is the Business Award recipient for his excellency as a business leader is this area for over 60 years. Mr. Mac, as he is affectionately known, is the owner of McMullen Funeral Home. A business started by his father in the 1920s, McMullen Funeral Home has been a part of this community for many years. After his father’s death, Mr. Mac and his brother William took on the family business and ran it together until William’s death in 2001. He worked as the lead director of the funeral home until well into his nineties. Mr. Mac is a member of Pleasant Ridge Presbyterian Church in Lancaster. Mr McMullen passed away in 2020 at the age of 96.

Douglas Aaron Rucker was born October 31, 1939, in Honea Path, South Carolina, son of Ruth Wright Rucker and Aaron Riley Rucker. He graduated from Barr Street High School in 1957, Morehouse College in Atlanta, Georgia in 1961, Howard University College of Dentistry in 1966. After returning to Lancaster, Dr. Rucker started his career with the Carolina Community Action as part of the Headstart Dental Program. Dr. Rucker opened his private practice, Rucker Dentistry, in 1966 and serviced his esteemed community until his death on August 30, 2019, just a few months shy of his 80th birthday. Dr. Rucker was married to Mrs Ruby King Rucker, and they were parents to eight. Douglas Aaron Rucker Jr, Aaron Riley Rucker, Patricia Rucker-McCray, Ruby Rucker Cooper, William Lawrence Rucker (deceased 2016), Carlton Douglas Rucker, Ellen Rucker Sellers, and Ione Rucker Jamison. He was grandfather to 23 and friend to many.

Rev. Dr. Loyd Reid is the recipient of the Ministry Award. Doctor Reid is a native of Lancaster, SC. He is the youngest of ten children born to Duncan and Elizabeth Barnes Reid. He received his early education at the Lancaster Training School and did further study in the Rock Hill Seminary at Friendship College in Rock Hill, SC. After maintaining required attendance, study and Christian Acumen at Morris College School of Religion in May 1980, He was awarded the Morris College School of Religion Certificate. He also further studied at Mid-Atlantic Bible College in Rock Hill, SC. Rev. Reid is a member of St. Paul Baptist Church where he is former teacher and assistant superintendent of Sunday School, and he is now associate minister.

Rev. Reid is the former pastor and member of Red Hill Baptist Church where he served for 20 years. Later he was pastor of Loving Charity Baptist Church, Oak Hill Baptist Church in Pageland, SC for 12 years, Macedonia Baptist Church for 5 years, and Christian Home Baptist Church in Chester, SC for 12 years and then back to Macedonia Baptist for an additional 10 years. A few Rev. Reid’s accomplishments include being past Associate Patron of Progressive Chapter No. 200, past Master of Alba Lodge No. 81, and past President of the Mount Peaceful Baptist Building Association where he also served as moderator. He was a member of the Clergy staff at Spring Memorial Hospital in Lancaster, SC, Former Chaplin at the Stewart Funeral Home in Heath Springs, SC, Former Chaplain of the Bell Town Voluntary Fire Department and was the First Vice-President of the United Ministerial Association. Rev. Reid was also a very active member of the Board of Registration of Lancaster, SC. One Sunday per month, Rev. Reid visited the city and county jails in Lancaster, SC and delivered sermons of God’s Love to the inmates. In his prime, when asked, “Rev. Reid, don’t you ever get tired?” he would respond, “I am a Servant of My God, and I don’t have time to get tired.”

On December 17, 2005 Rev. Reid received his Doctorate’s Degree and December 17 was declared Rev. Dr. Loyd Reid Day in Lancaster County by then Mayor Joe Shaw. Rev. Reid was happily married for 62 years to the Late Essie Mae Pate Reid. They are proud parents of four children, six grandsons, one adorable granddaughter, and 6 great-grandchildren. In January 2020 Dr. Reid passed away at the age of 88.

Dr. Deborah B. Cureton is a native of Lancaster, and she started her collegiate life right here at USC Lancaster in 1969 after graduating from Barr Street High School. She continued her studies and graduated from the University of South Carolina and later completed her Ph.D. at the University of Wisconsin Madison. Dr. Cureton returned to USC Lancaster in 1980 as a faculty member and was eventually named Associate Dean for Academic and Student Affairs, a position she held until 2001. During her time at USC Lancaster, she collaborated the submission of the campus's first TRiO grant. The TRiO programs have become a much celebrated and integral part of campus life and culture and a critical mechanism for student support and success. During her time at USC Lancaster, Dr. Cureton also helped guide the Black Awareness Student Group, and today the Educational Foundation of USC Lancaster administers a scholarship named for her and in honor of the devoted mentoring she provided to so many students. In 2001, she was named Campus Dean and Chief Executive Officer at the University of Wisconsin-Richland. She held that position for 7 years, came home to Lancaster for one year, and returned to Wisconsin a year later to serve one more year as Acting Campus Dean. In 2010, Dr. Cureton was named an Outstanding Woman of Color in Education by the University of Wisconsin System. After retirement, Dr. Cureton returned to Lancaster for good and has busied herself with travel and varied community volunteer roles. Highlights of the community service include the following: She is past chair of Family Promise and guided that organization in the establishment of an endowed scholarship in our Foundation upon the dissolution of the local chapter of that organization. She chairs the Lancaster County Library Board and the Lancaster Housing Authority Board of Commissioners. She is the past president of the Educational Foundation of USC Lancaster and also serves on the Downtown Lancaster Revitalization Stakeholders Group. In 2019, she again answered the call at USC Lancaster and served as Interim Associate Dean for Academic and Student Affairs. Her work mentoring students personally and academically has left a deep and positive impact. Her more recent engagement in our campus and community continues to lift us all to a better place.  Dr. Cureton, a member of Camp Creek AME Zion church, considers her grandmother, Beatrice M. Brown; her parents -- Jethro and Katie Brown-- and siblings, her daughter and grandson, Yokima Cureton Perez and DJ; and her extensive family as amazing and abundant blessings from God.

Dr. Stinson is the son of the late Deacon Robert Stinson, Sr. & Lena Dawkins Stinson. He was born in Lancaster, South Carolina and is the 4th of nine children.  He was converted at the age of twelve in 1964, and was baptized and joined New Zion Missionary Baptist Church, Lancaster, SC, under the pastoral leadership of Rev. F. A. Carolina.   

He was called by God to preach His Holy and Righteous Word at the age of twenty-four, under the pastoral leadership of Rev. R. J. Steward.  Dr. Stinson preached his first sermon in June 1976 and was licensed and ordained into the Ministry on November 27, 1977 at Zion Pilgrim Baptist Church, Lancaster, SC under the pastoral leadership of Rev. R. J. Steward who served as the 1st Vice Moderator of the Mt. Moriah Missionary Baptist Association.

EDUCATION

Dr. Stinson was educated in the Lancaster County School System.  He continued his education at Morris College, Sumter, SC; Mid-Atlantic Bible College, Spartanburg, SC; New Life University, Charlotte, NC; and New Life Theological Seminary College, Charlotte, NC.

Dr. Stinson has earned the following degrees:

• Associate of Arts in Theology

• Bachelors of Arts in Divinity

• Master of Arts in Divinity

• Doctor of Ministry (Valedictorian and Summa Cum Laude)

SPIRITUAL LEADERSHIP

Dr. Stinson has served as pastor of Mt. Zion Baptist Church, Heath Springs, SC, for 38 years; Moderator of Mt. Carmel Camp Meeting, Heath Springs, SC, for 38 years; and, Past Moderator of the Mt. Moriah Missionary Baptist Association.  He has served in the following capacities at the Mt. Moriah Missionary Baptist Association: Treasurer; Supervisor of the Brotherhood Auxiliary; Facilities

Committee member; Chairperson the Furnishing Committee; Chairperson of the Catechism Committee (2000-2008); First Vice Moderator (2000-2004); contact person for the security system, past Supervisor of the Catechism Council and Executive Board member. 

Dr. Stinson is happily married to the Reverend Reva Thompson-Stinson, a native of Lancaster, SC.  He is the proud father of four daughters: Benja S. Jenkins, Shirnetha Stinson, Ar’Reshi Knight, and La’Reshi Grimmage.  Three sons-in-law: Greg Jenkins, Bryan Knight and Kendil Grimmage as well as four grandchildren: Cierra, Duane, Selvin and Kaylee.

            1 COMMUNITY INVOLVEMENT

Dr. Stinson has served his community in the following capacities:  Chaplin for Spring Memorial Hospital (1977-1992); Member of the School Improvement Council for Lancaster County School District; Mentor for students that attend Buford area schools (Elementary, Middle, & High);   Counselor for teens and adults referred by the Lancaster County Court System; Chaplin in Prisons in the Low Country of South Carolina (Charleston, SC); and Volunteer at Lancaster Children’s Home and Lancaster Convalescent

Home.   Dr. Stinson also supports public service organizations such as Mother Against Drunk Drivers, SC State Troopers Association, the Lancaster County Volunteer Fire Department, NAACP and local Greek organizations.  Dr. Stinson is a certified Notary Public. He is a retiree from the Lancaster County School District. Dr. Stinson is currently the assistant Chaplin of the Damascus Lodge #62 Kershaw and the Kershaw County Lodges. Dr. Stinson is also currently a facilitator of the iLead Leadership Initiative for youth with the Lancaster School District.

HONORS / AWARDS

Dr. Stinson has received the following awards/honors:  The Outstanding Leadership Awards- Mt. Zion

Baptist Church, Heath Springs; The South Carolina House of Representatives Award; The NAACP

Fundraising and Legal Action Award; The Outstanding Community Leadership Award of Heath Springs, SC; The NAACP Historical Award; The Lancaster County Council Good Leadership and Services Award; and many more in which gives all glory to God.

Rev. Joann S. Cook is a lifelong resident of Lancaster County.  Most of her years have been spent in her hometown of Kershaw, SC.  She has devoted most of her life to the people whom she lives among and throughout many states.  Joann’s life mission has always been to serve others and her work is a living testament to this mission.

Personal Life

Joann is the eldest child of Deacon George and Mrs. Willene Shropshire.  She commends them for the unconditional support of her dreams, which played a major part in her success.  She has four siblings, George Jr.,(deceased) Jerry (deceased), Don, and Kammie.  She is married to her high-school sweetheart,  Mr. Michael Cook, for 48 blessed years.  To this union, they have two sons, Kevin Dwayne (Andrea) and Cedric Michael (Melloney) Cook.  They have five grandchildren, Khaleela, Keddric, Zharia, Kia, and Kole.  They are also blessed to have two great-grandchildren, Kaden and Nyla.

Professional Life

Joann graduated from South Eastern Beauty College in April 1986.  She is grateful in remembering Rev. Rosa Lee Vinson of Lancaster SC and Joann Peay of Kershaw SC who extended her the opportunities of working within their respective salons.  She is reminded that they both extended their time and knowledge to her to assist in her growth and development as a hair stylist.  Joann remembers working very long hours to build her clientele,  which proved to be a great business decision for the longevity of her career.

During her career as a hair stylist, she took the opportunity to invest in others as she was invested in.  She would extend the opportunities for summer work in the salon.  Cheresa (Izzard) Tucker was one who worked with her and is now a salon owner and stylist in Charlotte, NC.  She has been blessed to have long-term co-workers, Wanda Adams, Dianne Newman, Felicia Hood, in her salons over the years.  Shaquana Kelly also worked for a short period while in Kershaw, SC.

Joann took advantage of many opportunities to sharpen her skills as well as learn new ones in the hair care industry.  She attended Dudley School in Charlotte, NC and Kernersville, NC to gain barbering skills and master other skills while learning more about the business of hair care.  She was a top retail seller and traveled with Dudley as a stylist to hair shows held throughout the United States.  Joann was the president of The United Hair Designs in Lancaster SC.  This club awarded scholarships to high school students as a way of giving back to their community.

Business Life

Joann has been the owner of two salons.  She credits Mr. Bob Belton and Mr. Willie James Robinson with giving her the opportunity to learn about business ownership.  Both men were instrumental in specific times of her career by supplying her a building as well as providing wise counsel to her.   On Top L&P Salon was her first salon leased to her by Mr. Belton.  Her current salon is Joann’s Styling Salon which she owns and was built by Mr. Robinson.

Ministry Life

Joann has been active in outreach ministry for 40+ years.    She started as a president of the Young Missionary Board at First Kershaw Baptist Church.  She became a licensed minister under Dr. Waldo Robinson.  She was ordained in 2003 under the leadership of Pastor Durante Pardue of Anointed Word Church in Lancaster SC.  Joann realized that God was directing her into full-time prison ministry which she still cherishes today.  Joann began looking for opportunities to volunteer within prisons.  She would travel to different prisons and assist as a volunteer when she could.  This led to an ongoing volunteer ministry opportunity within Kershaw Correctional Institution to teach within the Alpha Program under the leadership of Rev. Joann Blackwell. While assisting with the teaching program, Joann was given the opportunity to help organized Christian worship services within the prison. During this time, Joann was ordained by Chaplain Scott for prison ministry and she obtained her Clinical Pastoral Degree.  She eventually was offered a paid position as a Re-entry Program Coordinator in 2011.  Her efforts within this program has helped men to receive education, job skills, and college certifications.  The recidivism rate has been very low.

Life Statement

If it had not been for the Lord on my side, I would not be who I am today.  With all of the relationships that I have been afforded in my life, the most treasured relationship is the one I have with Jesus Christ.  Through this relationship, I have been extended the wonderful opportunity to touch many generations of people by assisting with physical, mental, emotional, and spiritual needs.  I do not take it for granted any opportunities.

In the year 1987, the fourth Sunday in May was always the Sunday for the JL Jones Singers at the Saint Paul Baptist Church in Lancaster, South Carolina.  The JL Jones Singers were the youth and young adults of the church under the tutelage of Mrs. Garness Thompson.  The children and young adults were gifted singers, but as time passed, they became young adults and adults.  As the fourth Sunday swiftly approached, Mrs. Thompson reached out to friends at Camp Creek AME Zion.  This Camp Creek Gospel Chorus agreed to join in with the adult choir at Saint Paul for a "concert" to keep that Sunday afternoon active.   Mrs. Sheresa (Pam) Ingram served as the musician for the church and realized her training in choral direction could come in handy.  Thus, Genesis Mass Choir began. 

Genesis Mass Choir organized with the election of officers and written by-laws.  The Choir's main focus was to help churches raise funds for whatever purpose they needed to enhance or repair.  No money was taken from the host(s), instead whatever amount raised remained with the host church.  Genesis worked diligently together to raise monies needed for travel and accommodations.  We believed if we give from the heart the Lord will bless us immensely.  

The Choir was now represented by ten area churches and five denominations.  The Lord blessed Genesis to meet Mr. Jason Missouri, who became the principal keyboardist.  The talent was all over the place.  Mr. Robert White, Mr. Perry Gooden, Mr. Anthony Flowers, and Mr. Laquavious Jones served as drummers and percussionists.  Mr. William Mobley and Mr. Mitchell McGee served as the principal lead and bass guitarist.  The Choir grew to over one hundred members by 1988 and began to travel the eastern seaboard extensively.  Genesis left their mark on the cities of Washington, DC, Columbus, OH, Rochester, NY, Montclair, NJ, Warner Robbins, GA, Buffalo, NY, and many other local areas.  The Choir also participated in the Carolina Gospelfest Competition sponsored by the McDonald's Corporation held in Greensboro, NC.  This was a first for the group, and the Choir placed at a respectful third - Honorable Mention.  From that moment, there was no stopping Genesis Mass Choir.

At date, the chain of life has been broken several times, but the links still remain active.  The Choir still sings whenever invited and sings for one reason, and one reason alone ... the Love of God!

Larry Durham Sr. is a U.S. Air Force veteran who earned a Bachelor of Science degree in business administration and an M.B.A., both from Winthrop.

The retired owner of Larry Durham-State Farm Insurance in Lancaster, Larry was an agent for 33 years. He has also worked as a loan officer and assistant vice president at Bankers Trust and as director of Winthrop's Small Business Development Center.

Larry served as a member of the Winthrop Board of Trustees and former board member of the S.C. Commission on Higher Education, Durham has spent more than two decades involved in civic and community work in Lancaster County and for South Carolina. He currently serves as vice chair of the Lancaster County Commission for Higher Education. He is a past chairman of the Lancaster County Chamber of Commerce, past president of the Lancaster County United Way and the Lancaster Rotary Club. Larry has also served on the Elliott White Springs Hospital Board of Trustees. 

Larry is a member of the National Association of Insurance and Financial Advisors. He served as past president of the Lancaster chapter.

Active with his alma mater, Durham currently serves on the Graduate School Community Advisory Board. He served as a member of the Distinction Campaign Steering Committee, a member of the Alumni Executive Board, The Black Alumni Advisory Committee and the Alumni Legislative Advocacy network. Larry received the Pinnacle Distinguished Alumni Award in 2011 from the Winthrop College of Business Administration. 

Durham and his wife Madeleine Dorn Durham '74 '88 have been generous donors to a number of Winthrop and USC-L programs and projects, including the Winthrop Fund, the Graduate Incentive Scholarship and the Center for Economic Development.

Larry loves to watch cowboy movies in his spare time and he enjoys watching airplanes at the airport.

Larry and Madeleine are 33 year residents of Lancaster. They have two children Monique (C.T.)  Kirk and Larry (Melissa) Durham, Jr.  They have seven grandchildren 

(Anela, Bethany, Gabriel, Anna, Brendan, Kyndall and Lily).  

Coach Floyd White, II was born on September, 1933 in Chester, SC. Coach was born to Floyd and Gazelle White. During school he excelled in a variety of academics such as science, physical education, health and biology. He graduated valedictorian in his class. In the year 1951-1955, White attended South Carolina State University on a football scholarship where he majored in education and science. He also pledged and became a member of Omega Psi Phi Fraternity. Today he is still an active member of this prestigious fraternity here in Lancaster, SC.
In the 1956, he joined the U.S. army and was stationed in Fort Rucker, AL. There he met the love of his life Gloria Simmons and have been married for 61 years. Today they have 3 children and 2 grandchildren. After his honorable discharge they returned to civilian life and he resumed to teaching at Simms High School in Union, SC. In 1963 Coach moved to Lancaster, SC and began working at Barr Street as science teacher and P.E. coach. He resigned from the Lancaster County School District and began working at Leigh High Construction Steele.
In 1983, Coach returned back to the Lancaster County School District and resumed working at South Junior High. He was a 7th grade science teacher. He was part time guidance and part time administration. He was promoted to Lancaster High School in 1991 as an administrator. While at Lancaster High he became recipient of the Bruin of the Year.  
Since then White has maintained many accomplishments such being accepted into the Lancaster County Education Hall of Fame in the year 2005. White has dedicated 45 years of his life in field of education. He has taught science, coached, mentored students and teachers, and was an administrator for Lancaster High School. He retired from Lancaster High School in 2005.
Today being a thriving 86 year old, he enjoys working for the Greater New Hope Church Soup Kitchen where he delivers hot meals to the needy in the community, walks his dogs, and watching western movies.
He is still called “chief” till this day and has taught many generations and their children.
If Coach White could say anything about himself he would say he is one of God’s children, a son, a father, a husband, a grandfather, a uncle, a student, a scholar, an athlete, a teacher, a mentor, a counselor, a high school administrator, and most importantly a faithful servant of Christ. TO GOD GIVE THE GLORY.
 

Dr. Peggy Clinton Clark, a native of Lancaster, South Carolina began playing the piano at age three by ear and started lessons by six. Her love for music and playing the piano came from GOD who decreed her gifts and talents through her mother, Mrs. Jeanette Witherspoon Clinton, the first pianist for Saint Paul AME Church in Lancaster. Dr. Clark played for the same church from teenage years to adulthood. She has done further piano studies at the University of North Carolina, Winthrop, and Columbia Universities in Rock Hill, SC, and New York, NY respectively.

Her undergraduate studies were done at Allen University in Columbia, South Carolina, graduating in three years with the B.S. Degree. Studying at Teachers College/Columbia University in New York City during summer months, she obtained the M.A. Degree in 1962, and the M.Ed in 1985. After a year of interning, on May 17, 1989, she received the Ed.D in Music Education at the same institution. In 1973, she graduated from Dance Educators of America (DEA) in New York City, and operated dance schools in Lancaster and Chester, South Carolina.

Dr. Clark has done further studies at: Winthrop University Rock Hill, SC, East Carolina University Greenville, NC, University of North Carolina Chapel Hill, NC, University of South Carolina, Lancaster, SC, Howard University Washington, DC, University of Hartford Hartford, CT, Salem College, Winston-Salem, NC, Dr. Clark has made it her mission to encourage students who play by ear to find the best teacher they can and study the piano, because playing by ear does not make one a musician. Then they will be able to read music notation.

In 1990, Music Educators National Conference, of which she is a Life member, established a new program called "Nationally Registered Music Educators." The purpose of the organization is to improve the quality of music education in the United States Schools. In all 220 music educators from forty-four states (five from South Carolina) were included in the inaugural group. In April 1992, Dr. Clark was honored to be recognized at the 53rd National Convention of MENC at New Orleans, Louisiana for this accomplishment. She is listed as a NATIONAL MUSIC EDUCATOR for the UNITED STATES of AMERICA! She is also a life member of the NAACP, and Delta Sigma Theta, Inc.

Dr. Clark wrote a song for her Sorority, and set the names of the twenty-two Founders to music. On March 12, 1983 she was blessed to present copies of her work to the last living founder: Soror Bertha Pitts Campbell in Columbia, South Carolina.

She also composed a song entitled "Say No" (words and music), which was officially and legally copyrighted, in the Fall of 1987. Subsequently, a copy was received and acknowledged by Nancy Reagan - while her husband was still president. This song, created for the purpose of helping in the campaign against drugs, was met with enthusiastic response from school children, many of whom learned and performed it, and adults as well.

Dr. Clark taught five years at Winthrop University as an Adjunct Instructor in Music Education, and was Associate Professor of Music at Morris College in Sumter, South Carolina, teaching Music Appreciation and Piano.

She is the widow of the late Charles Louis Clark, a high school band director/singer, and very proud parent of a son, Gregory, a daughter, the late Melodye Aleta, two granddaughters: Maria and Anna, and seven great grandchildren: Scotlyn, Olivia, Autumn and Tatum (twins), Aaron,Jr., Ariana the 18 year old movie star, and Nathan.

As long and as far back as Cedric Lorenzo Mingo can remember, he had the best childhood a child could have. He was born on July 18, 1962 in Lancaster, South Carolina to Hazel Louis Mingo and Mattie Mingo. He was raised in a neighborhood made up of mostly family members. Those who weren’t family became family, and everyone took care of one another. As the oldest of three, it was natural for Cedric to want to set an example for his two younger siblings. He participated in every sport Lancaster had to offer in high school: basketball, football, and baseball. He was good at them all, but never good enough to be the star. When he joined the track team, he thought it would be his ticket to becoming the best he could be. He excelled at the sport, and soon Furman University’s scouts were after him to join their track program. But God had other plans.

Cedric wasn’t sure what he wanted to do after high school. His father was a business owner, and often encouraged him to learn a trade if he didn’t want to go to college. He was still trying to decide which way to go in life, when one Saturday evening while watching television, he came across a boxing match on the ABC show Wide World of Sports. It was Roberto Durán vs. “Sugar” Ray Leonard. This was a sign for Cedric. A couple of weeks prior, a neighbor who was also a big brother figure, George Larry McCloud, told him he had the perfect frame and mindset to try the sport. He’d already done some research on boxing in Lancaster and found that there were no boxing programs in town. Larry had served in the United States Army and also boxed, so he suggested Cedric join the military where he could get trained to box for free while also getting paid to be a soldier and serve his country. Like Martin Luther King Jr., Cedric now had a dream. He wanted to become a boxer. But not just any boxer. His dream was to become a World Champion.

Cedric left for the U.S. Army in 1980. There was no guarantee that he would box for the military. Like all soldiers prior to joining, he took a test to determine what job in the Army he would be qualified for. From there, he tried out for the boxing team and was selected. Once a soldier makes the boxing team in the military, that becomes his job. For the next four years, all Cedric did was box, eat and sleep. He traveled all over Europe with his military team and participated in the Italian Torneo, an elite European boxing tournament, where he won gold. In fact, President Reagan asked him to bring home the gold, and he was the only American boxer who did.

In Ft. Stewart, Georgia, at his first duty station, Cedric received his fighting name. He had just gone toe-to-toe with another fighter in the ring, when his coach came to him and said, “To be a small man, you sure are mean.” From then on, he became Cedric “Mean Man” Mingo. In 1983, he was one of the most feared featherweight military and worldwide boxers in the sport. As an amateur, the Mean Man had a record of 151 wins and nine losses with over 75 knockouts.

The “Mean Man’s” drive to become a professional world champion remained strong even when his military career ended. While living in Massachusetts, he had the opportunity to show his skills in the ring to the legendary boxer “Marvelous” Marvin Hagler and the famous boxing trainers Pat and Goody Petronelli. One of the trainers put in a call to Bob Arum, who is still one of the top boxing promoters in the world. And that night, he was signed to fight professionally in Atlantic City.

In January 1990, he faced Ed “Pit Bull” Pollard for the I.B.F Intercontinental Featherweight title. He won by knockout in the 9th round and became ranked third in the world as a featherweight. Five years later in May 1995, he faced Felipe Garcia for the World Boxing Federation Featherweight Championship Title of the World. Twelve rounds later, the dream he’d held for fifteen years became reality. He won. He was a world featherweight boxing champion, a title he would hold for the next two years. The “Mean Man'' fought for seven more years before retiring in 2002 with a professional record of 30 wins, nine losses, and one draw.

For all the hard work he put in to achieve his dream of becoming world champion, Cedric “Mean Man” Mingo cherishes the recognition and accolades he’s received. He earned the Key to the City of Lancaster, S.C. February 17th became Cedric “Mean Man” Mingo Day in Lancaster, S.C. He won Man of the Year in 1990. He was inducted into the 2006 Carolinas Boxing Hall of Fame. And his picture was put in the Historical Museum of Lancaster, S.C. He continues to support the Lancaster County community by speaking to youth about staying away from drugs, continuing their education, and always following their dreams.

On February 29, 1944, Henry Louis Canty was born to Henry Canty and Sarah Richardson Canty. He was the oldest brother to James and William Canty. 
   At an early age, Mr. Canty joined Zion Hill AME Church in Pinewood and was converted. He served as a member of Sunday school, Junior Trustees, choir, and as Sunday school secretary. He received his elementary and high school education at Manchester in Pinewood. He attended South Carolina State College where he obtained his degree in elementary education. After college, Louis moved to Lancaster, SC, to begin his teaching career. It was there that he met, fell in love with, and married Patricia Adams. They became parents to two children, Louquis Patrell and Brian Keith. 

    Louis Canty taught in the Lancaster County school system for 16 years. He received his Master's degree from Winthrop College in Rock Hill, SC. He was a member of the Lancaster County Education Association, South Carolina Education Association, National Council of Reading Teachers, and National Council of Curriculum Development. Louis was a very proud member of the Kappa Pi Chapter of his beloved Omega Psi Phi Fraternity, Inc.

    Louis Canty was an exceptional man. He was a devoted and hardworking man. His belief in taking care of and providing for his family was evident. At any given time, he had at least three jobs. He was a full time educator, of course. However, he also delivered the Charlotte Observer newspaper. This was a job he did seven days a week between the hours of 2:00 AM and 4:00 AM. On the weekends, he would wait tables. During the summer when school was out, he worked at Springs Industries at the Riverlawn plant. His work ethic was strong, and he attributed it to his parents that he had seen work so hard to provide for him and his brothers.

     Louis Canty was a wonderful, doting father! If it was after school on any Monday through Friday, you could be assured that he and his sidekick, his daughter, were together. He spoiled her beyond belief, and they hung out daily. She accompanied him as he ran errands, collected money from his paper route customers, did work for the building fund for Mt. Zion AME Zion church, carried out business for his beloved Kappa Pi chapter of Omega Psi Phi, etc. They were always together! He was elated when his Canty baby boy came! He finally had someone to carry on that Canty name. Unfortunately, he and Brian only got two short years together. However, because he was such a forward thinker, Mr. Canty recorded everything. He filmed all family events as well as everyday happenings. His children and even now his grandchildren are blessed that he captured so much of their lives on film. It's a priceless treasure.    

 As a teacher, Louis Canty was a rock star! He was cool and had lots of swag (even before it was a word!). His students loved him, and he loved them! As he and his constant after-school buddy, his daughter Trell, would drive through their neighborhood, kids would line the streets just to wave at his infamous little orange Volkswagen Bug and wave and yell "Mr. Canty!" as he drove by. 

    Being an educator was Louis Canty's passion!! He loved his students and treated them as his own children. It was quite unique in the 1970's to have a Black male teacher, and he handled the responsibility superbly. Even today, former students approach his children and grandchildren letting them know what a great role model he was for them. A former student recently shared this on his Facebook page: "When I was just a child at Dobson Elementary in Lancaster, SC, this young man taught me and shared with me how an adult should treat a child. During the holidays, I think back to when he would ask the kids to bring a couple of dollars to school, and he would go to our local McDonald's and get us a meal with it.  When he would get back with the food, he would draw a silhouette of us and give them to us as Christmas gifts. I was blessed to call him my teacher and friend." 

    Louis Canty was adored by Dobson Elementary School. Mr. Canty's birthday was somewhat of a holiday at Dobson. As he was born on February 29th, his actual birthday only came around every four years. On those years where there was a February 29th, the school made sure to make a big deal about his birthday. Also, his former students still recall to his children the day his wife, Patricia, went into labor with Brian. They said someone came to his classroom door to tell him, and they were just as excited as he was. The bond he had with his students was something special! 
    
     Louis took his position as a schoolteacher to heart. He would go to the homes of those students who may have been ill or in trouble. He would counsel those boys who may have been fatherless or who just needed a mentor. He was the cool, fun teacher who made learning science fun.   

    Just as Mr. Canty's class was so excited to get the news that Brian was born, his sixth graders in 1981 were just as sad to receive the news that he had passed away. Even today, the students from that class share with his family how hurt they were to receive the news. Some students said that his funeral was the first one they had ever attended, but they wanted to be there because they loved him so much.

   When you think of the 37-year life that Louis Canty lived, it seems so short. However, when you think of the legacy that he left, it appears that God gave him just enough time to touch many.   
 

Bennie James Mobley Junior was born in Washington D.C. but raised in Lancaster, South Carolina.

Bennie’s parents were Bennie and Willean Lily Mobley. Bennie Jr. has 3 siblings, Gloria Mobley Pate, Herbert L. McCray, and Mildred McCray Pelham. Bennie is married to the former Edna Amelia Gordon of   Wallace, South Carolina and they have 3 children, Karen Annette Mobley, Rev. Cory Antoine Mobley Senior, and Tracey Alicia Mobley Chavous, a daughter-in-law Veronica Mobley, and a son-in-law Brent Chavous. Four grandchildren, Quintia, Alexis, Alexa, and Cory Jr. and three great grandchildren, Saliyah, Desmond, and Aviana.

Bennie attended the public schools of Lancaster County and he graduated from Barr Street High School in 1968 as class president. Having a passion for learning he continued his academic studies. Bennie received an Oratorical Scholarship to attend Morris College of Sumter, South Carolina where he earned a Bachelor of Science in Mathematics in 1972. He earned a Master of Education and state certification as an elementary school principal and supervisor in 1981 from the University of South Carolina.

Because Bennie loved learning and teaching others what he learned, he decided to devote his life to becoming a lifelong learner and educator. He taught mathematics to students at Wallace High School in Marlboro County and later to students at Buford High School in Lancaster County for a total of 23 years. During that time, he taught some students privately as their mathematics tutor, he taught students in summer school and years later was promoted to the position of site manager for summer school at Buford High School. Bennie also taught adults in the Adult Education Program in Lancaster while continuing to teach as a daytime teacher to high school students. Bennie was promoted to the position of Vice-Principal for Buford Middle School in 1993. Being the first Vice-Principal of Buford Middle School. Bennie held that position until he retired in 2009. Giving him a total of 37 years as a public-school educator. After retiring from the public school system of Lancaster County Bennie became a teacher and assessment center site manager at the Kershaw South Carolina Satellite Branch of York Technical College until 2015 when the Kershaw Satellite Branch of York Technical College closed its doors. Afterwards Bennie accepted the position as an assistant librarian at the University of South Carolina-Lancaster. So far Bennie has spent over 51 years teaching and serving others in the education arena. Continuing his commitment to being a life-long learner and educator. Bennie believes that learning opens up new opportunities. That learning keeps you engaged with the world around you.

While serving students as a high school mathematics teacher Bennie received 2 awards from Buford High School that impressed him the most. In 1992 he received an award for having an outstanding attitude and dressing more professionally than the administration, called the Outstanding Attitude Award. In 1993 he received the Teacher of the Year Award for Buford High School.

During his career as a teacher Bennie was privileged to serve his fellow teachers by becoming the President of the Lancaster County Education Association for 1987-1988 and later to be elected to the Board of Trustees of the South Carolina Education Association 1989-1992.

Bennie has been a member of Saint Paul African Methodist Episcopal Church for over 60 years. He has served in various leadership roles in the church including, the role of Class leader, chairperson of the Usher Board, member of the Steward Board, served as Church Treasurer for 13 years, President Pro-Tem of the Trustee Board. It was while Bennie was President Pro-Tem of the Trustee Board that the church additions were added, the classrooms, the Pastor’s new office, the dining area, and the church basement. Bennie was recognized on Men’s Day 2019 as Man of the Year.

Bennie realizes that every facet of his life is a blessing from God, thus one of his favorite Bible Scriptures and inspirations is Psalm 46:1, God is our refuge and strength an ever-present help in time of trouble. His favorite song is “I Don’t Feel No Ways Tired” by James Cleveland

 Bennie’s hobbies are reading daily, exercising daily, and spending time working in the yard.

Preston Blackmon was born March 16, 1926, 

to the late Willie and Ada Duncan Blackmon in Lancaster, South Carolina.  At the age of eighteen, he was drafted and joined the U.S. Air Force. He served for two years during World War II and received an honorable discharge as corporal from the U.S. Air Force. He returned to Lancaster Training School to complete his education and later graduated in 1947 from Barr Street High School in Lancaster.

 He furthered his studies at several South Carolina post-secondary institutions: South Carolina State College, Orangeburg; Clemson University, Clemson; Winthrop University and Atlanta Bible College, Rock Hill; and the University of South Carolina, Columbia. Rev. Blackmon was a recipient of the Honorary Doctorate of Christian Humanitarian Service from the C. E.Graham Seminary.

 At the young age of thirteen, he was baptized at First Washington Baptist Church. His membership at First Washington spanned nearly seventy years. He served as a Deacon, choir member, Sunday School superintendent and teacher.

In 1982, he was called to the ministry and preached at Saint John Five Baptism Holiness Church in Pageland, South Carolina; he then transferred to Wadesboro Holiness Church for two years. He served as a floater minister, working between the Lancaster County Hospital and the Lancaster County Rehabilitation Center, while also conducting weddings and funerals and serving the community as a counselor. He later joined Pleasant Grove Baptist Church where he was the associate pastor.

Rev. Blackmon was married to the late Wilma Myers Blackmon for over sixty years. They were the parents of sons,  the late Derrall Preston Blackmon, Racarda Blackmon, Andre Q. Blackmon,  the late Lauritz Blackmon, Heath Y. Blackmon, and daughters  Krystal Hunsaker, Myrna Denise Harrison, Annie Charlene Parker, Ada Prestina Blackmon, Onatha Lashawn Drakeford, Sheila Arlene Neal. 

Rev. Blackmon was committed to public service. He was a volunteer with Habitat for Humanity and he assisted in the organization of and was a member of the Southside Crime Watch and the Prison Ministry Outreach Service. He served on various committees, including the Southside Literacy Project, Southside Kidz Club, and Adopt-A- Leader.

He was a member of the Clerical Staff at Springs Memorial Hospital, the American Legion, Lancaster Disabilities and Special Needs Board, and Chairman of the Emergency Aid Act Advisory Board of the Lancaster Board of Education. He was an evangelist for White Oak Manor. He was dedicated and faithful to all the citizens of Lancaster.

A life member of the NAACP, Rev. Blackmon was a member for more than fifty years. 

During his lifetime, he had several firsts including being the City of Lancaster's longest serving member of City Council. In 1959, he became the first black police officer for the City of Lancaster Police Department and was the first black constable for two years.

Rev. Blackmon was a brick mason for eight years before becoming a sub-masonry contractor. He shared his skills in masonry as an instructor, beginning in 1966 in Buford County at the Trade Industrial Arts. He also taught at the Aiken County Vocational School, the Industrial Arts for Disadvantaged and Handicapped Students, and Barr Street High School, before retiring in 1988 from the York County School District in Rock Hill.

Rev. Preston Blackmon was a man of integrity, courage, wit, and ambition. He was one who loved God, family, friends, the City of Lancaster and all its people, and fun, especially a good joke. He was one who stood tall, above them all!! He was unselfish! He always gave of himself to others, whether black or white, rich or poor, educated or illiterate. Rev. Preston Blackmon died on August 2, 2008 at 2:45PM, after completing 82 years of well-lived life.

On a Sunday in 1977 down at Mount Mariah AME Zion Church, Mr. James Wade requested a song from his daughter-in-law and her sisters. Little did anyone know, that song would light a fire which would lead to the birth of the Inspiration Singers that same year. 

A group that was led by God's spirit would come together and meet at Bobbie Murchinson's home and make the decision to form a group that would pledge to spread the words of God through song, and at this meeting, emerged the first phase of The Inspiration Singers.  Over the years, the group will go through many transitions while spreading the gospel through songs. God would allow various members to come, for their seasons, to bless many souls by being a willing vessel for the Lord. God continued to shape and mold The Inspiration Singers through many tests and trials, to prove their faithfulness and ability to stand and do his work. Over the years, traveling to various states, cities, and towns The Inspiration Singers have done just that and they continue to do so 47 years later.

 For the past 40 years, The Inspiration Singers have been spreading the gospel as the first all-female quartet group hailing from Lancaster SC  with two of the original members sisters Bobbie J. Murchinson and Brenda Wade as well as their other sisters joining, Ella Ree Waiters Sutton, Elizabeth Ann Moore, and their sister in Christ Mary Cunningham. These women have inspired so many through song and being a positive example of strength, courage, and a never-ending will to do God's will. In October 2015, their sister, Ann was called home to be with the Lord, however her spirit lives on as the group continues to stay on this journey of bringing souls closer to God through their music.

Today the group consists of sisters Bobbie, Ella Ree, Brenda, Brenda's daughter Lutisha, in emeritus Mary Cunningham; musicians Antonio Mackey, DeLeon Curry and Elliott Cureton. 

The Inspiration Singers continue to follow God's will and remain humble as the song say, "If I'm too high Lord, I want you to bring me down."

Reverend AnThony E. Pelham was born in Lancaster South Carolina.  He is the proud son of Henry & Mildred Pelham Jr.  He received his Bachelor of Science Degree, with an area of concentration in Marketing, from the University of South Carolina at Aiken.  

Upon graduation from college, he was blessed with an opportunity to visit Germany, where his two-week visit resulted in a two-year stay.  It was there that he began to feel the power of God moving within his life and he completed his first self-published book of poetry and short writings entitled My Black Self! “A Struggle To Find My Identity.”  Since then, he has completed a second book of poetry and short writings entitled Gotta Get It Out!  A book that addresses issues affecting our youth and society.

After discovering the love of God, he was then blessed to marry his wife of twenty-nine (29) years, the former Teresa Anthony.  They have six (6), beautiful children, Hubert, Alfrick, Amber, Logan, Devone, and Teanna.  Upon relocating from Germany to Silver Spring Maryland in 1995 he soon answered God’s calling into the ministry, and received his ordination on April 28, 1998, from the African Methodist Episcopal Church.

Before serving as a Pastor, Rev. Pelham served as the Director of Youth and Young Adult Ministries at Allen Chapel A.M.E. Church in Washington D.C.  He also maintained a successful career as a Banking Center and Customer Service Manager for the former NationsBank, now Bank of America.  He has also served in several other capacities such as the Site Coordinator for Communities in Schools in Lancaster SC and Project Coordinator for the Upward Bound Program at the University of South Carolina at Lancaster.

Presently he is serving his twenty-fifth (25th) year as the Founder and Pastor of Faith, Hope, and Victory Christian Church.  He also serves as the Founder and Chief Executive Officer of The Community Powerhouse, a program that works with at-risk African American males.  The program has an Intervention Model which works with at-risk males ages 16—24 who have dropped out of high school and a Prevention Model which works with middle and high school students.    The goal of the program is to “Spark hope, ignite optimism, and create the currents for a brighter future,” which will empower them to return or stay in school to earn their G.E.D. or High School Diploma or obtain gainful employment.   Since its existence on November 22, 2004, the Powerhouse has served eight-hundred and ten (810) unduplicated at-risk males; been replicated in two schools in the Lancaster County School District and received over 2 million dollars in funding.

Rev. Pelham is a mentor, Community Activist, and proud member of the Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity Inc., Sigma Tau Lambda Chapter.   He was the 2008 recipient of the Omega Psi Phi Fraternity, Kappa Pi Chapter’s Community Service Award, and the 2018 Keeper of the Dream Award.  He has previously served as past Board Chairman of the Lancaster Fatherhood Project Inc.; an organization that strives to help fathers become reconnected into the lives of their children.; Executive Board member of the National Association for the Advancement of Colored People; Treasurer for the Lancaster Community Health Outreach Coalition; a grassroots organization devoted to eliminating sexually transmitted and other diseases affecting the African-American Community and on an HIV & AIDS Care team.  

In addition to his first love, which is sharing the Gospel of Jesus Christ, he actively serves on the Lancaster County Promise Neighborhood Advisory Board, Member of the Engaging Men Multi-Disciplinary Team, is Chief Spokesperson for the Delegation for Minority Affairs and as a member of the Early Head Start Health Services Advisory Committee.

Rev. Pelham states that he is a committed, humble, and devoted servant of God, husband, and father.  He also states that denoting his accomplishments keeps him humble and focused on the many blessings that God has showered upon him, and eagerly awaiting the greater ones to come.   For he states, “With God, ALL things are possible to them that believe.”

Harlean V. Carter, a native of Philadelphia, PA, has had a long career in law enforcement. She served with the Philadelphia Police Department as one of the first female officers in the city.  Harlean relocated to Lancaster, SC in 1989 and joined the Lancaster Police Department in 1990. 

     In her career with the Lancaster Police Department, she focused on community-oriented policing and accomplished several “firsts.” Here are a few: she established the first Police and Clergy Group; lead the first Citizen’s Police Academy Class; and was a member of the 1st graduating class of the Kingian Nonviolence Course, inspired by the mission of Dr. Martin Luther King, at the South Carolina Criminal Justice Academy. 

     Through hard work and dedication, she rose through the ranks and was appointed to the position of Chief of Police in 2010. She was the first black woman to serve in the position. She also served as Second Vice-President, First-Vice President, and President of the South Carolina Chiefs of Police Association.   Harlean retired from the department in 2016. She is still one of the few minority women to lead a police department in South Carolina. Always committed to the law enforcement community, she now serves as an investigator for the South Carolina Sixth Judicial Circuit Solicitor’s Office which is the prosecutorial body of Lancaster, Chester, and Fairfield counties.  

     Harlean V. Carter, a pillar in the Lancaster community, dedicated her career to serving others. She recognized the struggles and sometime injustices faced by her fellow neighbors and made it her mission to empower them. She selflessly poured her time and energy into making a positive impact. Her relentless dedication and compassion have touched the lives of many, leaving a lasting legacy of hope, equality, and empowerment. 

     Her relentless faith in God has equipped her with immeasurable fortitude and gratitude for all that He has done in her life. Holding steadfast to faith, prayer and good cheer, Harlean’s favorite scripture is found in Phillipians 4:13, “I can do all things through Christ which strengtheneth me”.

Mrs. Shirley Blackmon Davis, daughter of the late James and Mary Alice Wright Blackmon, one of nine children, was born in Lancaster SC. She Graduated from Barr Street High School in 1962. She had an early passion for teaching even as a child. She and her siblings would play school and Mrs. Davis would always have to be the teacher while the other kids would be the students. Mrs. Davis had a passion for doing hair as well and later became a licensed cosmetologist and this skill would help her to fund her college education. Mrs. Davis entered Benedict College and completed her studies receiving a Bachelor of Art Degree In Elementary Education and Library Science. She continued her education by attending The University Of South Carolina as well as Appalachian State University receiving certificates in Extended Education Programs. She then began her path in teaching by accepting a position at Heath Springs Elementary School as a teacher and librarian for ten years. Next Mrs. Davis moved to Kershaw Elementary as the head librarian. We all know in the early days teachers were secondary mothers, counselors, and disciplinarians to all their students. Mrs. Davis taught school for thirty years, retiring in 1996 to focus on her family. She quickly became restless and journeyed back into the school system. Mrs. Davis worked for ten more years with special after school programs, substituting for teachers in need of time off, and volunteering for any educational program that needed her expertise. During Mrs. Davis career she received several education awards. Here are a few that she is extremely proud of.

1. THE BUSINESS ADVENTURE AWARD presented by THE PAXTON BUSINESS GROUP.

2. THE BROOKLYN SPRINGS HOME LITERACY TRAIL AWARD presented by BROOKLYN SPRINGS ELEMENTARY SCHOOL.

3. CITIZEN OF THE YEAR AWARD presented by KAPPA PI CHAPTER OF OMEGA PHI PSI FRATERNITY.

4. THE MOST ADMIRED WOMAN VOLUNTEER AWARD presented by THE LANCASTER NEWS AND THE EYE AND LASER CENTER.

5. SOROR OF THE YEAR AWARD presented by IOTA THETA OMEGA CHAPTER OF ALPHA KAPPA ALPHA SORORITY LANCASTER SC. CHAPTER.

6. THIRTY YEARS OF SERVICE AWARD presented by LANCASTER COUNTY ASSOCIATION.

7. TEN YEARS OF SERVICE AWARD presented by LANCASTER COUNTY ASSOCIATION.

8. SOUTH CAROLINA RETIREMENT AWARD presented by STATE OF SOUTH CAROLINA,

9. AFTER SCHOOL PROGRAM MANAGER AWARD presented by THE GIRLS HOME OF LANCASTER COUNTY.

Mrs. Davis has a genuine love for education, tutoring, and volunteering with children and adults and still does it until today. Mrs. Davis is affiliated with the NAACP, The Teachers Education Association, and Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority. Also she is a member of Pleasant Grove Baptist Church and a member of Seniors On The Move Committee at church, and many more programs. These days Mrs. Davis enjoys spending quality time with her family which includes her oldest son Freddie Lamar Davis Jr. his wife Kimberly Davis and granddaughter Mary Katlin Davis. Her youngest son Michael T. Davis and his sons and daughter Jalen, Kyran, and Khloe and last but not least her great grandson Kourtlyn. After being married for over fifty years to the late Mr. Freddie Davis, an educator, business man, and local sheriff officer, she still includes his memory in all the family functions so her grandchildren know their roots. Mrs. Davis is humbled by this award and wants everyone to know to keep God first and you will always prevail. God Bless You All!!!

U.M. C. Brevard Jr. (affectionately known as Mack) was a humble, anointed and dedicated servant of God. He was the seventh of nine children born to the late Rev. U.M. C. Brevard Sr. and the late AraBelle McIlwain Brevard in Lancaster S.C. His humble beginnings of growing up in a Christian home where putting GOD first was the foundation in all that you, served as the driving force that shaped and influenced his life. 

He was a graduate of Lancaster County Public Schools. Shortly after graduating, he was drafted in the United States Army where he served our nation during the Korean War.  Because of his natural leadership qualities, discipline, courage, strong communication and decision-making skills, and ability to perform under pressure in complex and challenging situations, he was assigned to the Military Police Unit. Upon his discharge from the Army, he was asked by the City of Lancaster to be one of Lancaster’s first Black Police Officers along with the late Rev. Preston Blackmon but he declined the offer and accepted employment with Springs Industries where he worked for over 30 years until he retired. Shortly after serving in the United States Army, he answered God’s call on his life and became a soldier in the Army of the Lord.  Divinely chosen and anointed, he embraced his spiritual calling and was licensed to preach the gospel at New Hope Baptist Church in Heath Springs S.C. After faithfully proclaiming the gospel under the guidance of the Holy Spirit, it wasn’t long before he was elevated to the role of Pastor. He was ordained and installed the Pastor of St. Paul Baptist Church in Lancaster S.C.  Within a year he became the Pastor of his second church after his father, the late Rev. U.M.C. Brevard Sr., terminal illness. He was chosen to succeed him as the Pastor of Sandy Run Baptist Church in Jefferson S.C. Throughout his pastoral journey, as he grew in wisdom, knowledge, and spiritual maturity, humbling himself under God’s mighty hand, he was blessed to lead with unwavering dedication in preaching the truth of God’s Word and guiding others to live by faith in Christ. Over the course of his pastoral tenure, he was entrusted with the pastoral leadership of Oak Hill Baptist Church in Pageland S.C., Bright Light Baptist Church in Heath Springs S.C., and Hopewell Baptist Church in McBee S.C. His versatility was clearly demonstrated in his ability to manage the pastoral responsibilities of those three churches simultaneously while also serving as the Moderator of Bethel Hill Association. Under his leadership, all three churches flourished spiritually and grew in membership as he faithfully preached the infallible and inerrant Word of God.  As the congregation expanded, a larger church was built at Bright Light and renovations were made to the other church to accommodate the growing membership. Committed to equipping himself to better serve and shepherd God’s people, he earned a degree in Theology from Morris College Seminary, demonstrating his dedication to study to show oneself approved.

He demonstrated an unrelenting passion for spreading God’s love through preaching, teaching, and discipleship training by providing spiritual leadership and guidance to people from all walks of life.  His deep love and commitment to spiritually transform and prepare individuals for both church leadership and ministry were reflected by his extensive mentoring of young ministers. His spiritual leadership had a profound impact on young ministers whom he licensed, ordained and guided in strengthening their faith and commitment to serving the Lord. Throughout his pastoral ministry he initiated, encouraged, and supported programs that nurtured the spiritual growth of youth and young adults by developing them as leaders within the church. In every aspect of his calling, he fulfilled his assignments with integrity and great reverence to the Lord. He was highly respected as a person, pastor and moderator. This was acknowledged through various recognitions and accolades he received throughout the years. His character, his leadership, and his powerful preaching extended his influence beyond the churches he pastored and loved so dearly. He became in high demand as he gained recognition as a dynamic and powerful preacher; as a result, he traveled all over South Carolina, North Carolina, Connecticut, and New York as the revival preacher of the week. 

When he wasn’t preaching he enjoyed spending quality time with his family, watching western and detective TV shows and hosting his coworkers at his home to watch the heavyweight boxing matches. His down to earth personality and great sense of humor made him a pleasure to be around. His smile was infectious, and his kindness knew no bounds, leaving a lasting impression on all who had the privilege of knowing him. His deepest joy and the core of his heart lay in the profound humility he felt at being called by the Lord to preach the gospel and so incredibly blessed to be the husband to his beautiful wife the late Eugenia Duncan Brevard and deeply honored to be the father of his seven children:  Mack, D’Andrea, Denise, Eric, Donald, LaVilla and Kevin; and the grandfather of sixteen grandchildren; and great-grandfather of twelve great grands. Likewise, his family feels incredibly blessed and deeply honored to be a part of his legacy, cherishing the priceless memories of his unwavering faith in God. They vow to always stand on the foundation of his spiritual legacy of upholding a culture of putting GOD first, faithfully following the Lord’s calling and to do what the Lord require of you; to act justly, to love mercy and to walk humbly with God.

Adis Glen Crawford, a devoted family man, accomplished funeral service professional, and respected community leader, was born on September 27, 1946, in Lancaster, South Carolina. He is the beloved son of the late Adis David and the late Gladys Alexander Crawford. He shares a loving marriage with his wife, Audrey Baskins Crawford, and together they have raised two sons, Adis Glen Crawford III and Erick Vaughn Crawford and nephew, Kaliel Greene.

 Mr. Crawford is a member of Mt. Zion AME Zion Church and has served in various leadership roles, including Trustee Board member, Preacher Steward, and Financial Committee member. His deep-rooted faith is the foundation of his personal and professional endeavors. 

Mr. Crawford's pursuit of education began at Barr Street High School, and he later attended Clinton College in Rock Hill, SC. He furthered his studies at the American Academy McAllister Institute in New York, New York, where he earned a degree in Mortuary Science—an achievement that laid the groundwork for his distinguished career in funeral service. 

His service to the nation was marked by his tenure in the United States Army, where he honorably served during the Vietnam conflict and attained the rank of E5 before receiving an honorable discharge. 

A visionary in the funeral service industry, Mr. Crawford is the Founder and Owner of Crawford Funeral Home, with locations in Kershaw and Lancaster, South Carolina. His commitment to professionalism and compassion earned him numerous accolades and leadership roles, He is a member of the South Carolina Morticians Association, where he served as the 5th District Governor, a member of the South Carolina Funeral Directors Association, and served on the South Carolina State Board of Funeral Services as Vice Governor. Additionally, he is a Life Member of the British Institute of Embalmers and an esteemed member of the Academy of Professional Funeral Service Practice, Inc. His dedication to the industry was recognized when he was honored as Professional of the Year. 

Beyond his professional accomplishments, Mr. Crawford is a passionate advocate for community service. He is an exalted Rooster of the Lancaster Jaycees, a committed member of the NAACP, a member of the Wells Fargo Advisory Board, and actively supports the Sickle Cell Foundation. His devotion to service extended to his membership in Epsilon Nu Delta Fraternity, an organization dedicated to excellence in mortuary science, and he was recognized by the Omega Psi Phi Fraternity, Inc., Kappa Pi Chapter, Citizen of the Year Award for his outstanding contributions to the community. 

Through his unwavering faith, distinguished career, and selfless service, Adis Glen Crawford’s legacy continues to inspire those who follow in his footsteps. His life is a testament to dedication, excellence, and the profound impact of service to others. 

Rev. Howard W. Cureton, Jr., He is the oldest son of the late Howard W. Cureton, Sr. and Estella K. (Digby) Cureton born on August 15, 1945 in Lancaster, SC. Rev. Cureton was educated in the Lancaster County (SC) public school system and graduated in 1963 from Barr Street High. He later enlisted in the United States Navy and became an active reservist. Immediately following his military tenure, he completed theological and counseling studies at the Morris College School of Religion and enrolled in New Life University in Charlotte, NC where he graduated with a Bachelors in Divinity.

Rev. Cureton’s civic duties have included a long-time membership of King David Masonic Lodge #41, a professional career counselor, Past Moderator of the Bright Light Baptist Church Association. Rev. Cureton served as a volunteer for Hospice of Lancaster, where he touched many lives. The Lord has blessed him to serve as Senior Pastor of Rock Hill Baptist Church in Heath Springs, SC. for the past 36 years and counting. 

Rev. Howard W. Cureton, Jr. was blessed in holy matrimony on February 24, 1968 to the former Annie Jean Harris  They are the proud parents of three children, Alicia C. Patterson, Rev. Kenneth Cureton, and Camalah Cureton. They are also the proud grandparents of four grandsons, two granddaughters, and are the great grandparents to three boys.

Rev. Cureton’s ministry began in 1976 under the leadership of the Rev. R.J. Stewart at Zion Pilgrim Missionary Baptist Church. During his almost 5 decades of preaching, he has touched numerous of lives, unified many in matrimony and consoled countless hearts at home-going services. He has spent much of his leisure time making home visits, and hospital visits; even to people who are not his church members. If he has recreational time, you may find him sitting down to watch football and cheering on his favorite team, the San Francisco 49ers.

Rev. Cureton has been motivated by a motto credited to his pastoral mentor and professor, Rev. Dr. Ike Harvey; “Pastoring is the hardest job you will ever love.” He has worked tirelessly through encouraging himself through his favorite biblical passages: “I must work the works of him that sent me, while it is day; the night cometh, when no man can work.” (John 9: 4) and “I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me.” (Philippians 4: 13) 

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On August 25, 2025 Rev. Cureton passed away 10 days after turning 80 years old.

Selected for her guidance and leadership and possessing the same qualities of the namesake for the award, as she is the last surviving sibling of Mary Lou Mackey.

Selected for his dedication to serving the area and supporting all over.

Selected for her dedication to helping others and always willing to put herself in the fire to make sure things are done in decent and in order.

Selected for her selflessness and leading the Mt. Calvary Outreach to provide leadership and guidance to the youth in the Kershaw, Heath Springs, and surrounding areas.