Decedent

Gospel Pilgrim Decedents has a comprehensive list of men, women, and children interred in the cemetery. Using grave markers, obituaries, and death certificates, we have complied a list of individuals buried within the cemetery and, to the extent possible with archival silences, developed short biographies of each persons' life. Some decedents have marked graves, while others do not.

In part, this data is based on an early 2000s GIS survey of the cemetery, which was completed by David Berle, Gail Tarver, Taylor Ladd from the University of Georgia's Horticulture Department. The Athens-Clarke County Death Certificate data was, likewise, transcribed by Leah Richier, an graduate alumni of the University of Georgia's Department of History.

Last Name First Name Gender Race Status Occupation DOB DOD Age Grave Location Grave Markersort ascending Biography
Tuggle N. Unknown African American Free December 31, 1897 December 31, 1966 68 Gospel Pilgrim Cemetery Marked N. Tuggle was born on February 25, 1898 and died from unknown causes on February 5, 1967.
Brown Anderson Male African American Free Barber December 31, 1868 December 31, 1938 70 Gospel Pilgrim Cemetery Marked Anderson S. Brown was born in 1869. In 1900, he was widowed and worked as a post office clerk. He remarried before 1910; he and Mamie E. Brown at had least three children: Hamilton, Fedrick, and Julius. They were active in the Odd Fellows and, during a 1915 convention, she “welcomed the visitors to the colored households of Athens.” He was also a member of the Knights of Pythias. He worked as a “Special Deputy” for the “City Odd Teller” in 1910 and aa barber in 1920 and 1930. In 1910, 1920, and 1930, the family lived at 987 Reese Street. He died from unknown causes in 1939. She remained in the house after his death.
Jackson Cora Female African American Free December 31, 1886 December 31, 1887 Gospel Pilgrim Cemetery Marked According to her tombstone, Cora Jackson was born on July 15, 1887 and died on February 7, 1888. The infant was only 7 months old at the time of her death.
Ray Lizzie Female African American Free December 31, 1902 December 31, 1903 1 Gospel Pilgrim Cemetery Marked According to her tombstone, Lizzie May Ray was born on July 7, 1903 and died on September 8, 1904. The infant was 1 year 2 months old when she died.
George Maria Female African American Enslaved December 31, 1824 December 31, 1914 90 Gospel Pilgrim Cemetery Marked Maria George was born around 1825 and most likely spent the first half of her life enslaved. As a widow in 1910, she owned a home at 584 Strong Street. She still lived at that address in 1912, according to the City Directory. She died from unknown causes on March 14, 1915.
McQueen Carrie Female African American Free December 31, 1883 December 31, 1883 1 Gospel Pilgrim Cemetery Marked According to her tombstone, Carrie McQueen died in 1885; she was 1 year, 3 months, and 11 days old. She most likely was the infant daughter of Nettie and W. M. McQueen, who, according to the 1897 City Directory, lived at 630 Hull Street. She was the sibling of Mamie N. McQueen and William McQueen.
Winkfield Ellen Female African American Free Seamstress December 31, 1868 December 31, 1956 88 Gospel Pilgrim Cemetery Marked Ellen Winkfield (or Wingfield) was born around 1869. She married William Wingfield and the couple had at least three children: Walter, Callie, and Hattie. In 1910 and 1920, the family lived on Bridge Street and she worked as a dressmaker. According to the 1954 City Directory, she lived at 229 Bridge Street. She died from unknown causes on November 2, 1957.
Carrington Sarah Female African American Free Housewife December 31, 1883 December 31, 1931 48 Gospel Pilgrim Cemetery Marked The daughter of Eliza and Mayor Saggors, Sarah L. Carrington was born on March 23, 1884 in Georgia. She married Chas H. Carrington, a railroad shop laborer, and the couple lived in Birmingham, Alabama. She died from unknown causes on January 8,1932. Her body was returned to Athens and interred in Gospel Pilgrim Cemetery on January 11, 1932. She was only 48 years old at the time of her death.
Clark Minnie Female African American Free December 31, 1889 December 31, 1932 43 Gospel Pilgrim Cemetery Marked According to her tombstone, Minnie Lee Clark was born around 1890 and died in November 1933. She was only 43years old at the time of her death.
Jones Julius Male African American Free December 31, 1907 December 31, 1941 34 Gospel Pilgrim Cemetery Marked According to his tombstone, Julius C. Jones was born in 1908 and died in 1942.
Smith Priscilla Female African American Free Domestic December 31, 1889 December 31, 1962 73 Gospel Pilgrim Cemetery Marked The daughter of Jane and Bedny Smith, Priscilla Smith was born around 1890. In 1900, she lived with her parents at 1112 Billups Street and attended school. She appears to have married and been widowed young. She worked as a cook in 1910, a nurse in 1930, and a maid in 1940. According to the 1958 City Directory, she worked as a maid and lived at 1160 W Hancock Avenue. At 73 years old, she died from unknown causes on January 28, 1963.
B. W. Unknown African American Unknown Gospel Pilgrim Cemetery Marked [biographical information unknown]
Heard M. Unknown African American Free December 31, 1887 December 31, 1888 Gospel Pilgrim Cemetery Marked According to the tombstone, this 7 month-old infant was born on October 12, 1888and died from unknown causes on May 14, 1889.
Derricotte Edward Male African American Enslaved Laborer December 31, 1856 December 31, 1939 83 Gospel Pilgrim Cemetery Marked Edward J. Derricotte was born on March 12, 1858 and most likely enslaved as an infant. He worked as a day laborer in 1870 and as a “Sexton To Church” in 1880. In 1882, he married Charlotte L. Derricotte and the couple had at least four children: Ophelia, Edward Jr., Tom, and Andrew. He worked as a laborer at “odd jobs” while living in Everett, Massachusetts in 1920. Upon returning to Athens, he worked as carpenter in 1920. After the death of his wife, he moved back to Everett, Massachusetts where he worked as a janitor and lived with extended family. He died from unknown causes on June 4, 1940.
Lyles Mattie Female African American Free Laundress December 31, 1880 December 31, 1934 55 Gospel Pilgrim Cemetery Marked The daughter of Isabel Owens and Coloumbus Hardman, Mattie Owens Lyles was born on March 12, 1881. She married Eugene Lyles sometime before 1910. In 1910, she worked as a washer woman and, in 1930, she was a housewife. She died from diabetes mellitus and candidiasis disease on August 25, 1935. According to her Death Certificate, she was a housewife living at 147 Plum Street.
Turner Frances Female African American Free Laundress December 31, 1892 Gospel Pilgrim Cemetery Marked Frances Truner was born around 1893. She married Luther Turner and the couple had at least seven children: John, Dorthey, Walter, Fannis, Charles, Joseph, and Crawford. In 1920, the couple lived on Water Street. In 1940, they lived at 970 Hobson Street and she worked as a laundress. She died from unknown causes on an unknown date.
Brown Alice Female African American Free December 31, 1910 December 31, 1912 2 Gospel Pilgrim Cemetery Marked According to her tombstone, Alice E. Brown was born on 1911 and died on 1913.
Jackson Alfred Male African American Enslaved Laborer December 31, 1821 December 31, 1883 62 Gospel Pilgrim Cemetery Marked Alfred Jackson was born around 1822 in Virginia and most likely spent most of his life enslaved. He married Louisa Jackson and the couple had at least six children: Camilla, Edward, Albin, Bettie, Mary, and Judy. He worked as a day laborer in 1870 and a white washer in 1880. He lived on River Street. He died from unknown causes on February 14, 1884.
Reed Julia Female African American Free Teacher December 31, 1879 December 31, 1960 81 Gospel Pilgrim Cemetery Marked Julia W. Reed was born around 1880. According to the 1931 City Directory, she was the principal at West Broad Street School and lived at 669 Madison Avenue. She remained at that address in 1940 and worked as teacher. According to the 1958 City Directory, she lived at 147 North Avenue. At 81 years old, she died from unknown causes on July 19, 1961.
Geter Otis Male African American Free Unemployed December 31, 1899 December 31, 1967 67 Gospel Pilgrim Cemetery Marked The son of Ida and Dink Geter, Otis Geter (or Jeter) was born around 1900. As a child, he attended school and lived on Fourth Street with his parents. He married Alice Brown on May 17, 1937. At the time of the Second World War, he was unemployed and living at 630 Madison Avenue. On February 12, 1959, he was arrested for liquor possession and spent twelve months in jail. He died from unknown causes on May 6, 1969.
McQueen Mamie Female African American Free December 31, 1881 Gospel Pilgrim Cemetery Marked According to her tombstone, Mamie McQueen died in 1885. She most likely was the infant daughter of Nettie and W. M. McQueen, who, according to the 1897 City Directory, lived at 630 Hull Street. Hull Street. She was the sibling of CarrieMcQueen and William McQueen.
Winkfield Walter Male African American Free Mail Carrier December 31, 1887 December 31, 1931 43 Gospel Pilgrim Cemetery Marked The son of Ellen and William Wingfield, Walter P. Winkfield (or Wingfield) was born around 1888. In 1910, he lived with his parents on Bridge Street and worked as a barber. In 1920, he worked as a “US City Carrier.” He died from “[cancer?] of face” on March 14, 1932. According to his Death Certificate, he was a “postman” and lived at 221 Bridge Street.
Clark Julia Female African American Free December 31, 1880 December 31, 1940 60 Gospel Pilgrim Cemetery Marked According to her tombstone, Julia Shaw Clark was born in 1881. She most likely married William W. Clark, a laborer, and the couple lived at 144 Warsaw Street, according to the 1929 City Directory. At 84 years old, she died in 1941.
Jones Ida Female African American Free December 31, 1888 December 31, 1948 60 Gospel Pilgrim Cemetery Marked Ida Jones was born in 1889. In 1920, she lived with her husband, John Jones, a drayman, and their four children: William, Suise, Bernadett, and David. According to the 1942 City Directory, she lived at 425 Cleveland Avenue. At age 61, she died on June 29, 1949.
Smith [??]ssie Unknown African American Free December 31, 1940 Gospel Pilgrim Cemetery Marked [biographical information unknown]
Bacon Robert Male African American Enslaved Porter December 31, 1818 Gospel Pilgrim Cemetery Marked Robert Bacon was born around 1819 and most likely enslaved for much of his life. He married Minerva Bacon sometime before 1870 and the couple had at least three children: Robert Jr., Edward, and Mary. He worked as a La laborer in 1870 and porter in 1880. In 1880, he lived with his wife, children, daughter-in-law, and grand children at 353 Foundry Street in Athens. According to the 1889 City Directory, his wife lived at 414 N Foundry Street and this is most likely his last address. He died from unknown causes on an unknown date.
Heard J. Unknown African American Free December 31, 1893 December 31, 1893 Gospel Pilgrim Cemetery Marked According to the tombstone, J. T. Heard Jr. was born on July 31, 1894 and died August 30, 1894. It was the sibling of M. L. Heard.
Dillard Hansel Male African American Enslaved Barber December 31, 1792 December 31, 1852 60 Gospel Pilgrim Cemetery Marked Hansel Dillard was born enslaved around 1793. Trained as a barber, Dillard advertised his services to white Athenians in The Southern Whig: “Barbering and Hair-dressing. Hansel Dillard, Respectfully informs the citizens of Athens and the public generally, that he will, at all times, be found at his Shop, happy to accommodate those who favor him with their patronage.” In an era that barred almost all free and enslaved men from skilled employment, barbers enjoyed steady, profitable work. Indeed, this profession paid well; Dillard’s earning bought him freedom. As a free man of color, Dillard carved out a respectable space for himself in the slaveholding South. Dillard, according to The Weekly Banner, “made a great deal of money.” In addition to his barbershop, Dillard owned a bakery, operated a confectionery, kept a stable, and ran a delivery service. For him, and many other African-American men, barbering was a path to freedom and middle-class prosperity. It allowed him to procure not only his own freedom, but purchase his wife’s freedom for $1000 as well. She, then, took in student’s washing for additional income. In 1851, Dillard owned property; he paid taxes. Sixty-year-old Dillard died of unknown causes on Sept. 5, 1853. He was buried in Athens. Exactly where, however, is unknown. At some point, years after Hansel Dillard’s death, friends from Charleston, South Carolina erected a tombstone in his memory. While damaged by age and neglect, the stone, inscribed “I know that my Redeemer livith,” still stands in Gospel Pilgrim Cemetery today.
Lyons C.H.S. Male African American Free Academic December 31, 1880 December 31, 1954 74 Gospel Pilgrim Cemetery Marked C. H. S. (or C. M. S.) Lyons Sr. was born on July 25, 1881. He may have worked as a professor or teacher. According to the 1952 City Directory, he was president of the Union Baptist Institute (known Jeruel Academy) and lived at 427 Baxter Street. He died on June 26, 1955.
Turner Luther Male African American Free Laborer December 31, 1884 Gospel Pilgrim Cemetery Marked Luther Turner was born around 1885. He married Frances Turner and the couple had at least seven children: John, Dorthey, Walter, Fannis, Charles, Joseph, and Crawford. In 1920, the couple lived on Water Street and he worked as a laborer for the Southern Railroad. In 1940, they lived at 970 Hobson Street and he worked as a watchman. He died from unknown causes on an unknown date.
Brown Mary Female African American Free December 31, 1913 December 31, 1944 31 Gospel Pilgrim Cemetery Marked According to her tombstone, Mary Frances Brown was born on 1914. She most likely married Reese Brown, a "helper" at Athens Labor Company, and, according to the 1940 City Directory, the couple lived at 151 Strickland Avenue. At 31 years old, she died from unknown causes on 1945.
Jackson Louisa Female African American Enslaved Laundress December 31, 1825 Gospel Pilgrim Cemetery Marked Louisa Jackson was born around 1826 in Georgia and most likely spent most of her life enslaved. She married Alfred Jackson, a day laborer and white washer, and the couple had at least six children: Camilla, Edward, Albin, Bettie, Mary, and Judy. She worked as a washer and ironer in 1880 and lived on River Street. She died sometime after 1880.
Reid Dina Male African American Free Seamstress December 31, 1885 December 31, 1917 32 Gospel Pilgrim Cemetery Marked Dina Reid was born around 1886. She married Lorenza W. Reed Jr. and, in 1910, the couple lived on Pearl Street. She worked as a seamstress. She died from unknown causes on April 17, 1918.
[Goon?] [??] Female African American Free 75 Gospel Pilgrim Cemetery Marked According to her tombstone, [??] Sally [Goon?] died during the 1940s at 75 years old.
Meriweather Senie Female African American Free Laundress December 31, 1876 December 31, 1905 29 Gospel Pilgrim Cemetery Marked The daughter of Maria and James Meriwether. Senie or Sena Meriwether was born on April 5, 1877. In 1880, she lived with her parents and siblings at 295 Thomas Street. According to the 1904 City Directory, she worked as a washerwoman and lived at 26 Rock Spring Street. At 29 years old, she died from unknown causes on April 8, 1906.
Winkfield Pattie Female African American Free December 31, 1918 December 31, 1964 48 Gospel Pilgrim Cemetery Marked Pattie Winkfield was born in 1919. At 48 years old, she died from unknown causes on April 19, 1965. According to her obituary in The Atlanta Constitution, she lived at 229 Bridge Street.
Cleveland John Male African American Free Laborer December 31, 1868 December 31, 1930 62 Gospel Pilgrim Cemetery Marked John Cleveland was born between 1865 and 1875. He married Liza Cleveland, a laundress, and the couple had a least one child: Johnnie, Magnolia, and Manda. Unable to read or write, he worked as an oil mill laborer in 1920 and was working as a laborer in 1929. He was not working in 1930 and lived at 168 John Street in Athens. He died from unknown causes on November 27, 1931; he was around 62 years of age at the time of his death.
Jones Robert Male African American Free Mason December 31, 1876 December 31, 1936 60 Gospel Pilgrim Cemetery Marked The son of Susan Harris and Robert Jones, Robert L. Jones was born on July 9, 1872 (or 1877). Around 1908, he married Effie Jones and the couple appears not to have had children. He worked as a brick mason in 1910 and as a “Tiel Setter” in 1930. He died from apoplexy on February 12,1937. According to his Death Certificate, he worked as a brick mason and lived at 167 Paris Street
Smith Candace or Candance? Female African American Enslaved Domestic December 31, 1847 December 31, 1927 84 Gospel Pilgrim Cemetery Marked The daughter of Violet Baxter, Candance Wylie Smith was born around 1848. She died on September 29, 1928. According to her Death Certificate, she worked as a domestic and lived on a “country farm” outside of Athens.
Bacon Marenia Female African American Enslaved Cook December 31, 1823 Gospel Pilgrim Cemetery Marked Minerva Bacon was born around 1824 and most likely enslaved as a young woman. She married Robert Bacon sometime before 1870 and the couple had at least threechildren: Robert Jr., Edward, and Mary. In 1880, she lived with her husband, sons, daughter-in-law, and grandchildren at 353 Foundry Street in Athens. She worked as a “Washer & Ironer” in 1880 and as a “cook” in 1889. According to the 1889 City Directory, she lived at 414 N Foundry Street. She died from unknown causes on an unknown date.
Heard Mattie Female African American Enslaved Teacher December 31, 1862 December 31, 1942 78 Gospel Pilgrim Cemetery Marked Mattie I. Heard was born around 1863 and most likely enslaved. She married William Heard, a blacksmith, in 1897 and the couple does not appear to have had living children. She worked as a teacher in 1900, 1910, and 1920 At the time of her husband’s death in 1939, they lived at 475 Reese Street. She died from unknown causes on November 13, 1943.
Dillard William Male African American Enslaved Laborer December 31, 1907 70 Gospel Pilgrim Cemetery Marked William Dillard was born around 1844 and most likely enslaved. According to the 1870 Census, he worked as Day Laborer. She married Racheal Dillard and they had at least two children: Nannie and Annie. In 1904, he worked as a laborer and lived at 640 Fourth Street. He was one of the founding members of the Gospel Pilgrim Society.
Lyons Lottie Female African American Free Academic December 31, 1911 December 31, 1956 45 Gospel Pilgrim Cemetery Marked The granddaughter of Charlotte and Edward Derricotte and the daughter of Ophelia M. and Charles Lyons, Lottie M. Lyons was born around 1912. In 1920, she lived with her parents at 427 Baxter Street. She was the Dean of Woman at Ft. Valley State College (now Fort Valley State University). She died from unknown causes on May 19, 1957.
Upson Neal Male African American Enslaved December 31, 1860 December 31, 1941 74 Gospel Pilgrim Cemetery Marked The son of Jane and Harold Upson, Neal Upson was born around 1861. According to a 1930s WPA interview, he was enslaved on Frank Upson’s plantation in Oglethorpe County. He married Brynie Upson. According to the 1942 City Directory, he lived at 450 Fourth Street. At 74 years old, he died from unknown causes on July 22, 1942.
Brown Ella Female African American Free December 31, 1879 December 31, 1928 49 Gospel Pilgrim Cemetery Marked According to her tombstone, Ella Smith Brown was born on 1880 ans died from unknown causes on 1929. At the time of her death, she was around 49 years old.
Jackson Thomas Male African American Free Doctor December 31, 1896 December 31, 1930 34 Gospel Pilgrim Cemetery Marked The son of Sweetie Poline and Thomas Nathaniel Jackson, Thomas N. Jackson was born on June 12, 1897. As a child in 1900, he lived on Barber Street with his family. He graduated from Knox Institute in 1915. At the start of the First World War, he lived at 133 Cleveland Avenue and worked as a grist mill operator. During the war, he was a student at the Army Training Meharry Medical College in Nashville, Tennessee. In 1930, he worked as a physician in Athens. He died from [??] on November 8, 1931. According to the Death Certificate, he worked as a physician and lived at 133 Cleveland Avenue.
Reid Willie Male African American Free Butcher December 31, 1893 December 31, 1937 42 Gospel Pilgrim Cemetery Marked The son of Nora Smith and Willie Reid, Willie Reid was born on August 16, 1894. In 1910, he lived with his grandmother (Della Batiste) and worked as a brick yard laborer. During the First World War he served in the 315th Labor Battalion. At 43 years old, He died from rheumatic heart disease on April 15, 1938. According to his Death Certificate, he worked as a butcher and lived at 462 Madison Avenue.
Green Unknown African American Unknown December 31, 1934 Gospel Pilgrim Cemetery Marked According to the tombstone, [??] Green died on [August?] 4, 1935.
Merriweather W. Unknown African American Free December 31, 1912 December 31, 1930 17 Gospel Pilgrim Cemetery Marked According to the tombstone, W. G. Merriweather was born on November 26, 1913 and died on July 20, 1931. This individual was only 17 years at the time of their death.
Winkfield Callie Female African American Free Teacher December 31, 1894 December 31, 1969 76 Gospel Pilgrim Cemetery Marked The daughter of Jennie L. Davis, Callie V. Winkfield was born between 1892 and 1895. In 1930, she worked as a public school teacher and lived with her mother at 229 Bridge Street. In 1945, the National Alliance of Postal Employees meet at her home in Athens. She died from unknown causes on July 31, 1970 in Fulton, Georgia.
Cobb Minnie Female African American Free Wife December 31, 1891 December 31, 1943 52 Gospel Pilgrim Cemetery Marked Born around July 14, 1890, Minnie Johnson Cobb married Crawford Cobb, a tailor. According to the 1938 City Directory, he worked as a tailor and they lived at 874 Water Street. In 1940, she did not work and lived with her husband at 874 Hobson Avenue. According to the 1942 City Directory, she lived once again at 874 Water Street. She died from unknown causes on February 12, 1944.
Jones Arthur Male African American Free Waiter December 31, 1907 December 31, 1927 19 Gospel Pilgrim Cemetery Marked The son of Mamie Howell Jones and Brown Jones, Arthur B. Jones was born on May 12, 1908. In 1910, he lived with his parents in Stone Mountain, Georgia. He, then, lived in Fulton, Georgia with his grandparents in 1920. In 1940, his parents lived at 1063 W Hancock Avenue; this may be his last known address as well. He died from myocelitis on February 8, 1928. According to his Death Certificate, he worked as a waiter and was living in Athens, Georgia.
Smith Martha Female African American Enslaved Domestic December 31, 1859 December 31, 1921 62 Gospel Pilgrim Cemetery Marked The daughter of Jim Nealy, Martha Smith was born around 1860 in Alabama and most likely enslaved as a child. She married Seboon (or “Siabam”) Smith around 1870 and the couple had at least six children: Inez, Willie, and Samuel. In 1910, she worked as a “sick nurse” and lived with her family on Bertin Street. She died from “cancer return” on May 30, 1922. According to her Death Certificate, she worked as a domestic and lived at 181 Lyndon Avenue.
Bacon Mary Female African American Enslaved Laundress December 31, 1848 December 31, 1916 68 Gospel Pilgrim Cemetery Marked According to her tombstone, Mary Bacon was born on October 17, 1849 and, given her date of birth, sge likely spent her childhood enslaved. According to the 1909 City Directory, she worked as a laundress and lived at 554 E Strong Street. at 68 years old, she died from uknown causes on November 27, 1917. She is most likely either the mother, sister, or wife of Edward Bacon, who was also buried in Gospel Pilgrim Cemetery.
Heath Lula Female African American Free Boarding House December 31, 1873 December 31, 1912 39 Gospel Pilgrim Cemetery Marked Lula Shaw Heath was born sometime between 1874 and 1878. In 1910, she ran a boarding house and lived with her husband, Charley Heath, their child, Charley, and two borders at 317 Chase Street. She died from unknown causes on September 15, 1913.
Downer G. Male African American Enslaved Laborer December 31, 1860 December 31, 1914 54 Gospel Pilgrim Cemetery Marked According to the tombstone, G. T. Dower was born around 1861 and most likely enslaved as a child. At 54 years old, this person died from unknown causes on February 2, 1915. Most likely this person is Gaines Downer, who, according to the 1904 City Directory, worked as a laborer and lived at 658 Morris [St. Av. or Way?].
Lyons Collins Male African American Free December 31, 1913 December 31, 1915 2 Gospel Pilgrim Cemetery Marked According to his tombstone, Collins T. Lyons was born on June 17, 1914 and died on August 7, 1916. He was 2 years and 1 month old.
Upson Brinie Female African American Free December 31, 1952 Gospel Pilgrim Cemetery Marked Brynie Upson was born around 1880. She married Neal Upson, a farmer, and the couple lived outside of town on Hull Road. She died from unknown causes on December 21, 1953. According to the 1942 City Directory, he lived at 450 Fourth Street; this was most likely her last known address.
Brown Eliza Female African American Unknown Gospel Pilgrim Cemetery Marked [biographical information unknown]
Jackson Sweetie Female African American Free December 31, 1874 December 31, 1934 59 Gospel Pilgrim Cemetery Marked Sweetie Poulain Jackson was born on November 15, 1875. She married Thomas Jackson, a miller, and the couple had at least seven children: Farris, Thomas, Burnett, Babe, Samuel, and Lloyd. In 1910, the family rented a house on Cleveland Avenue. According to 1931 City Directory, she and her husband lived at 133 Cleveland Avenue. At 59 years old, she died from unknown causes on July 17, 1935.
Reid Fannie Female African American Free Secretary December 31, 1889 December 31, 1983 93 Gospel Pilgrim Cemetery Marked The daughter of Laura and Lorenza Reid, Fannie J. Reid was born on October 5, 1890. In 1910, she attended school and lived with her parents at 431 Bridge Street. In 1910, she remained at the same address. According to the 1958 City Directory, she worked as a secretary at the Athens High and Industrial School and lived at 243 Bridge Street. She died from unknown causes on February 19, 1984.
Greene Marcus Male African American Free December 31, 1901 December 31, 1934 32 Gospel Pilgrim Cemetery Marked The son of Salemma Greene, Marcus James Greene was born on September 18, 1902. As a child he lived with family on Foundry Street in 1910. He died from unknown causes on August 4, 1935. He was 32 years old at the time of his death.
Mi[??] Mamie Female African American Unknown 70 Gospel Pilgrim Cemetery Marked According to her tombstone, Mamie Mi[??] died on October 31, [19??]. She was 70 years old at the time of her death.
Wymbs J. Male African American Free Minister December 31, 1890 December 31, 1935 45 Gospel Pilgrim Cemetery Marked The son of Janette and Lewis Wymbs, J. H. Wymbs was born around 1891. He died from an acute infection on August 15, 1936. According to his Death Certificate, he worked as a minister and lived at 175 Second Street.
Cole William Male African American Enslaved Janitor December 31, 1851 December 31, 1931 80 Gospel Pilgrim Cemetery Marked The son of Betsey Derricotte and Lucius C. Cole, William Cole was born around 1852 and was most likely enslaved as a child. He worked various jobs, including day laborer (1870), farmer (1880), and janitor (1932). He married Mary Cole and, in 1900, the couple had two living children: Hansel Cole and another unnamed child. 80 year-old Cole died from [??] on September 30, 1932. At the time of his death, he lived at 186 John Street.
Jones Mamie Female African American Free Laundress December 31, 1885 December 31, 1970 85 Gospel Pilgrim Cemetery Marked Mamie Howell Jones was born on March 11, 1886. She married William Brown Jones and the couple had at least three children: Arthur, Thomas, and Clifford. In 1910, the family lived in Stone Mountain, Georgia. In 1940, she worked in “laundry” and they lived at 1063 W Hancock Avenue. According to the 1956 City Directory, she and her husband lived at 1063 W Hancock Avenue. She died from unknown causes on July 19, 1971.
Smith Robert Male African American Free Carpenter December 31, 1888 December 31, 1924 36 Gospel Pilgrim Cemetery Marked The son of Nellie Thomas and Scott Smith, Robert Smith was born around 1889. He married Pearl Smith and served in the 313 Service Battalion during the First World War. He died from being “shot by police in self defense” on December 25, 1925. According to his Death Certificate, he worked as carpenter and lived at 387 Flint Street.
Bacon Edward Male African American Enslaved Shoemaker December 31, 1853 December 31, 1905 49 Gospel Pilgrim Cemetery Marked The son of Minerva and Robert Bacon, Edward Bacon was born on December 25, 1854 and, given this date, most likely spent his childhood enslaved. He married Mary Bacon and the couple may or may not have had children. During the 1870s and 1880s, he worked as a shoemaker in Athens. According to the 1897-98 City Directory, he lived at 416 E. Strong Street and remained at this address in 1904 while working as a shoemaker. He died from unknown causes on December 13, 1906; he was 49 years old.
Hicks Charles Male African American Enslaved Cook December 31, 1840 December 31, 1915 75 Gospel Pilgrim Cemetery Marked Charles Hicks was born around 1841 and most likely enslaved as a child and young adult. In 1904, he worked as a cook and lived at 21 N Findley Street. He was married to Mary A. Hicks and, according to the 1915 City Directory, they lived at 169 N Findley Street. According to a 1914 newspaper report, he was a contributing member of the Methodist Church. He died from unknown causes on December 8, 1916.
[Murfrey?] [??] Unknown African American Free December 31, 1892 December 31, 1928 36 Gospel Pilgrim Cemetery Marked According to the tombstone, this individual was born around 1893 and died in 1929; they were 36 years old.
Drake Laura Female African American Enslaved Cake Embosser December 31, 1861 December 31, 1904 43 Gospel Pilgrim Cemetery Marked Laura L. T. Drake was born in May 1862 and was most likely enslaved as a child. In 1900, she was married and had four children: Franklin, Laura, Ruby, and Gipsy. She worked as a cake embosser and lived at 11 Billups Street. On May 24, 1905, she died from unknown causes; she was around 43 years old.
Lyons Joseph Male African American Free December 31, 1892 December 31, 1940 48 Gospel Pilgrim Cemetery Marked Joseph R. Lyons was born between 1892 and 1893. At 48 years old, he died from unknown causes on September 12, 1941.
Virgil Emma Female African American Free Cook December 31, 1879 December 31, 1943 64 Gospel Pilgrim Cemetery Marked The daughter of Mary and Louis Jackson, Emma Virgil was born around 1880; her parents had been enslaved to John Montgomery in Oconee County. In 1930, she worked as a cook. When interviewed by the WPA in the 1930s, she lived at 1491 W. Broad Street. According to the 1952 City Directory, she lived at 268 Parris Street. At 64 years old, she died from unknown causes on February 14, 1944.
Brown [Susie?] Female African American Free Domestic December 31, 1883 December 31, 1936 53 Gospel Pilgrim Cemetery Marked The daughter of Susian Mcintosh and Robert L. Jones, Susie C. Jones Brown was born around 1884 in Oconee County. She worked as laundress during the 1910s and 1920s. She married J. Wilson Brown, a grocery store merchant, and the couple had at least five children: Georgia, Mamie, Caleb, Lila, and Susie. After the death of her husband, she lived at 1353 W Hancock Avenue and worked as a domestic. At 53 years old, she died from apoplexy on December 13, 1937.
Jackson Albon Male African American Free Doctor December 31, 1900 December 31, 1940 40 Gospel Pilgrim Cemetery Marked The son of Sweetie Poulain Jackson and Thomas Nathaniel Jackson, Albon Louis Jackson was born on February 17, 1901. As a 17 year old, he attended school and lived with his parents at 133 Cleveland Avenue. In 1917, he graduated from Knox Institute and then attended Dartmouth College, Meharry Medical College, and the University of Illinois School of Medicine. For a time, he lived and practiced medicine in Albion, Michigan and Chicago, Illinois. “He returned to Athens, his hometown, where he was able to take up much of the practice of his two brothers, the late Doctors Thomas N. and Farris L. Jackson.” In 1937, he and his wife, Katie, lived at 133 Cleveland Avenue. According to Atlanta Daily World (Apr 23, 1941), “Dr. Jackson was active in civic and fraternal groups. A member of the Alpha Phi Alpha fraternity, he bears the distinction of fostering many of the Alpha projects in cities where he has lived. His friendly smile and cheerful disposition won for him many friends. He is survived by a wife, father, three brother, Dr. Samuel Jackson, dentist, Athens; Dr. B. L. Jackson, dentist, Tuskegee Institute, Lloyd Jackson undertaker of Athens; cousin and a host of friends to mourn his passing.” He died from unknown causes on April 21, 1941.
Reid Mattiline Female African American Free December 31, 1892 December 31, 1893 Gospel Pilgrim Cemetery Marked The daughter of Laura and Lorenza Reid, Mattiline I. Reid was born on August 14, 1893 and died on July 30, 1894. She was only 6 months old. In 1897, her father lived at 431 Bridge Street; this is most likely her last known address.
Greene Ellen Female African American Free Teacher December 31, 1892 December 31, 1976 79 Gospel Pilgrim Cemetery Marked Ellen F. Greene was born around December 1, 1893. In 1910, she attended school and lived on Foundry Street. She graduated from college and moved to Nashville to take a deanship at Fisk University in Nashville, Tennessee. After leaving Athens, she instructed Leo Barnett, an Athens-area resident known for performing cemetery maintenance, “to keep the family plot cleaned and maintained.” In 1977, Ellen died in Nashville. She was interred, in Athens, near her mother, Salemma, and two brothers: Marcus and Augustus, a Sergeant Major who had preceded her in death in 1941.
Milner Ella Female African American Enslaved December 31, 1861 December 31, 1942 81 Gospel Pilgrim Cemetery Marked Ella L. Milner was born in 1862 and most likely enslaved as a child. She married Sam Milner, a warehouse worker, and the couple had at least one child: Roberta Milner. She did not work during her married life. As a widow in 1930, she lived alone at 168 Peabody Street. She died from unknown causes in 1943.
Young Agnes Female African American Enslaved Laundress December 31, 1836 December 31, 1897 60 Gospel Pilgrim Cemetery Marked Agnes “Aggie” Crawford Young was born in March 1837. In 1870, she was “keeping house.” She was married James Young in 1864 and they had at least six children: Edward, John, Minnie (Davis), Maria, James, and Young. As a widow in 1880, she lived at the corner of Foundry Street and Connecticut Street and worked as a “Washer & Ironer.” According to the 1889 City Directory, she lived at 438 Bridge Street and worked as a laundress. At he died from unknown causes on January 10, 1898. After her death, she bequeathed her possessions to her daughter, Minnie Davis.
Cole Robt. Male African American Free Hackman December 31, 1868 December 31, 1915 46 Gospel Pilgrim Cemetery Marked Robert C. Cole was born on December 18, 1869. He married Nona Cole and, in 1910, he worked on the Transfer Line as a hackman. According to the 1909 City Directory, he lived at 343 Hull Street, He died from unknown causes on December 10, 1916.
Jones William Male African American Free Cook December 31, 1879 December 31, 1964 84 Gospel Pilgrim Cemetery Marked William Brown Jones was born on September 18, 1880. According to his First World War Draft Card, he worked as a cook at the State Normal School. He married Mamie Howell Jones and the couple had at least three children: Arthur, Thomas, and Clifford. In 1940, he worked as a cook and the family lived at 1063 W Hancock Avenue. According to the 1956 City Directory, he and his wife lived at 1063 W Hancock Avenue. At 84 years old, he died from unknown causes on January 19, 1965.
Smith Julia Female African American Unknown December 31, 1939 Gospel Pilgrim Cemetery Marked Julie E. Smith died on July 11, 1940. She is buried alongside Winnie Moore.
Marcellus Male African American Unknown Gospel Pilgrim Cemetery Marked [biographical information unknown]
Hill Harrison Male African American Free December 31, 1930 December 31, 1930 0 Gospel Pilgrim Cemetery Marked According to his tombstone, Harrison Hill was an infant who died on December 4, 1931.
Neely Helen Female African American Free December 31, 1898 December 31, 1963 65 Gospel Pilgrim Cemetery Marked According to her tombstone, Helen B. Neely was born on September 10, 1899 and died on March 26, 1964. She was 65 years old.
Drake Cornelius Male African American Free Insurance Agent December 31, 1870 December 31, 1945 74 Gospel Pilgrim Cemetery Marked According to his tombstone, Cornelius Drake was born on November 25,1871. According to the 1904 City Directory, he worked as a janitor at the State Normal School and lived at 111 Billups Street. He married Virgie C. sometime between 1904 and 1942. According to the 1942 City Directory, he was an agent at the Pilgrim Health and Life Insurance Company and he lived at 986 Reese Street. At 74 years old, he died from unknown causes on October 17, 1946.
M. W. Unknown African American Unknown Gospel Pilgrim Cemetery Marked [biographical information unknown]
W Unknown African American Unknown Gospel Pilgrim Cemetery Marked [biographical information unknown]
Brown Grapell Female African American Free December 31, 1933 December 31, 1935 2 Gospel Pilgrim Cemetery Marked The daughter of Ola Mae and Caleb L. Brown, Grapell O. Brown was born in 1934. The family lived at 1353 W Hancock Avenue. She died from influenza on January 6, 1936, when she was just 2 years and 4 months old.
Jackson Samuel Male African American Free Dentist December 31, 1905 December 31, 1945 40 Gospel Pilgrim Cemetery Marked The son of Sweetie Poulain Jackson and Thomas Nathaniel Jackson, Samuel S. Jackson was born in 1906. In 1910, he lived with his parents and siblings at 133 Cleveland Avenue. In 1920, he attended school in Athens. While still living with his parents in 1930, he now worked as a dentist. On December 29, 1934, he married Mayme L. Sapp, but is listed as “single” in the 1940 Census. At that time, he worked as a dentist and lived with his brother, Albon Louis Jackson, at 133 Cleveland Avenue. He died from unknown causes on April 21, 1941.
Reid Laura Female African American Free December 31, 1892 December 31, 1893 Gospel Pilgrim Cemetery Marked The daughter of Laura and Lorenza Reid, Laura Ella Reid was born on August 14, 1893 and died on July 30, 1894. She was 11 months old. In 1897, her father lived at 431 Bridge Street; this is most likely her last known address.
Greene Augustus Male African American Free Soldier December 31, 1894 December 31, 1940 46 Gospel Pilgrim Cemetery Marked The son of Salemma Greene and brother of Ellen Greene, Augustus C. Greene was born on August 4, 1895. As a child, he lived with his grandmother, Harriett Stroud, at 508 Foundry Street. He attended school. He served as a Sergeant Major in the 11th Triangle Battalion during the First World War. He died from unknown causes on December 22, 1941. He was only 46 years old at the time of his death.
Minniefield Henry Male African American Free Porter December 31, 1888 December 31, 1937 49 Gospel Pilgrim Cemetery Marked The son of Ella Lee and John Minniefield, Henry L. Minniefield was born around 1889. In 1930, he worked as a porter at a pool room and was married Effie L. Minnifield, a seamstress. At 49 years old, he died from bulbar paralysis on April 2, 1938. He worked as porter and lived at 346 Reese Street at the time of his death.
Cole Victoria Female African American Free Laundress December 31, 1878 December 31, 1960 82 Gospel Pilgrim Cemetery Marked Victoria J. Cole was born in 1879. She married Lucius C. Cole, a university janitor, and worked as a laundress. In 1930, the couple lived at 169 Newton Street. According to the 1958 City Directory, she lived at 160 Hendrix Street. At 82 years old, she died from unknown causes on August 22, 1961. She was 82 years old.
Jones Vinnie Female African American Enslaved December 31, 1824 December 31, 1886 62 Gospel Pilgrim Cemetery Marked Vinnie Jones was born around December 25, 1825 and most likely spent her early life enslaved. She married Willis A. Jones, a carpenter and reverend, and, in 1880, the couple lived on Broad Street. She died from unknown causes on November 7, 1887.
Snelson A. Unknown African American Free December 31, 1896 December 31, 1899 2 Gospel Pilgrim Cemetery Marked A. O'Luwole Snelson was born on July 29, 1897 and died from unknown causes on March 1, 1900. This child was 2 years and 8 months old at the time of death.
Banks Jessie Female African American Free December 31, 1912 December 31, 1961 49 Gospel Pilgrim Cemetery Marked According to her tombstone, Jessie Mae Banks was born in 1913 and died in 1962. She is not listed in the city directories during the 1950s, so her address remains unknown.
Hill Whitman Male African American Free Janitor December 31, 1882 December 31, 1960 78 Gospel Pilgrim Cemetery Marked Whitman Hill was born on September 17, 1883. In 1949, he worked as a janitor and lived with his wife, Sara H., at 157 Church Street, According to the 1958 City Directory, he still lived at 157 Church Street. He died on October 1, 1961. He may have worked as a reverend; this title is listed on his tombstone.
Nesbit John Male African American Enslaved Mason December 31, 1853 December 31, 1895 42 Gospel Pilgrim Cemetery Marked The son of Sarah and Charles Nesbit, John Nesbit was born around 1854. In 1870, he lived with his parents and siblings in Athens. He married Ella Virginia Richardson on February 3, 1884 and the couple had six living children, including John, Fannie, Sarah, Julia, and Laura. According to a 1889 editorial on East Athens, “Mr. John Nesbitt has a pretty house that can vie with many of our handsome ones on this side.” According to the 1894 City Directory, he worked as a brickmason and lived at 310 Pearl Street. He died from unknown causes on October 13, 1896.
Drake Franklin Male African American Free Business December 31, 1891 December 31, 1914 24 Gospel Pilgrim Cemetery Marked The son of Laura and Cornelius Drake, Franklin B. Drake was born on October 24, 1892. In 1900, he lived in Athens and attended school. He graduated from Knox Institute and then worked “in business.” In 1910, he lived with his grandmother and parents at 853 Prince Avenue. He died from unknown causes on July 5, 1915.

Get in touch

  • Department of History
    220 LeConte Hall, Baldwin Street
    University of Georgia
    Athens, GA 30602-1602
  • 706-542-2053
  • 706-542-2455
  • history@uga.edu

eHistory was founded at the University of Georgia in 2011 by historians Claudio Saunt and Stephen Berry

Learn More about eHistory