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 DODsort descending Age Grave Location Grave Marker Biography
Derricotte Annie Female African American Free Domestic December 31, 1883 December 31, 1928 44 Gospel Pilgrim Cemetery Marked The daughter of Lula Lee and Charlie Shaw, Annie Bell Derricotte was born on August 28, 1884. She died from lung pneumonia on December 14, 1929. According to her tombstone, she was the “wife of J.W. Derricotte.” She worked as a domestic and lived at 157 Warsaw Street, according to her Death Certificate.
Jones Lula Female African American Enslaved Cook December 31, 1858 December 31, 1929 71 Gospel Pilgrim Cemetery Marked Lula Jones was born on March 18, 1859 and most likely enslaved. She married and had three children. In 1910, she was a widow who worked as a cook and rented a house at 160 Lyndon Avenue. According to the 1928 City Directory, she worked as a cook and lived at 157 Warsaw Street. She died from unknown cause on April 3, 1930.
Owens Alphonso Male African American Free Porter December 31, 1899 December 31, 1929 30 Gospel Pilgrim Cemetery Marked The son of Isabella Owens, Alphonso A. Owens was born on February 5, 1900. In 1910, he lived with his mother and siblings at 228 Cleveland Avenue. He served in the First World War and applied for Victory Metal in 1921. At that time, he was living 147 Plum Street in Athens and attended school. Sometime prior to 1930, he moved to Chicago and worked as porter. He died from unknown causes on August 8, 1930. At the time of his death, he lived at 5321 Calumet Avenue in Chicago.
Owens Jesse Male African American Free Laborer December 31, 1929 Gospel Pilgrim Cemetery Marked Jesse Owens served as a private in the 403 Labor Battalion during the First World War. In 1926, he worked as a laborer and lived on Water Street. He most likely married Flora Owens, who lived at 240 Newton Street. According to the 1928 City Directory, the couple lived at 2402 Newton Street and he worked as a laborer. He died from unknown causes on August 23, 1930.
Freeman Fannie Female African American Enslaved Seamstress December 31, 1963 December 31, 1930 67 Gospel Pilgrim Cemetery Marked Fannie Martin Freeman was born between 1860 and 1864 and was most likely enslaved as a child. In 1883, she married R. S. Freeman. According to the 1910 Census, she was a widow working as a seamstress and living at 564 Fourth Street. In 1930, she lived with a son in Spalding, Georgia. She died from a cerebral hemorrhage on January 10, 1931. According to her Death Certificate, she worked as a cook and lived at 50 Madison Street.
Favors Tom Male African American Enslaved Laborer December 31, 1859 December 31, 1930 71 Gospel Pilgrim Cemetery Marked The son of Fannie Howard and Ben Favors, Tom Favors was born around 1860 and most likely spent his childhood enslaved. He married Cynthia Favors and the couple had a least four children: Lela, Ada, Lillie, and Homer. As a laborer, he spent most of his adult life as a street sweeper or road hand in Athens. In 1913, he was arrested for selling liquor. According to The Athens Banner: “Tom Favors, colored, took it into his head a few days since that he would dish out a little of the ardent, and out at his home on Broad street, he had a crowd of men around that were buying the stuff right along, when the police officials broke into his little game.” Rather than face jail time, he paid a $100 fine. According to the 1926 City Directory, he and his wife lived at 148 Pearl Street. He died from [??] and [??] on December 18, 1931. At the time of his death, he was around 71 years old and had been living at 481 Billups Street.
Williams Harriet Female African American Free House Keeper December 31, 1852 December 31, 1930 76 Gospel Pilgrim Cemetery Marked The daughter of Harriett Dardey, Harriet Williams was born around October 11, 1853. At 76 years of age, she died from arterio sclerosis on February 24, 1930. According to her Death Certificate, she was a “house keeper” and lived in Atlanta, Georgia.
Sims Minnie Female African American Free Cook December 31, 1874 December 31, 1930 56 Gospel Pilgrim Cemetery Marked The daughter of Caroline and D. Charlie Whales, Minnie Whales Sims was born around 1875. She married John H. Sims and the couple had at least four children: Robert, M. C, Susie, and George. She worked as a Laundress in 1910 and a cook in 1930. At 56 years old, she died from [??] on November 4, 1931. At the time of her death, she lived at 499 Madison Avenue and worked as a domestic.
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 Florence Female African American Free Domestic December 31, 1893 December 31, 1930 37 Gospel Pilgrim Cemetery Marked The daughter of Elizabeth Flagg and Milledge A. Shaw, Florence Shaw Jones was born sometime between August 29, 1894 and 1897. She married Stepheny Jones, a laborer and school dish washer, and the couple owned a home at 138 Billups Street. She worked as a laundress during the 1920s and 1930s. She died from mitral regurgitation on January 22, 1931. At the time of her death, she worked as a domestic and lived at 138 Billups Street.
Willingham Clifford Male African American Free Laborer December 31, 1881 December 31, 1930 48 Gospel Pilgrim Cemetery Marked The son of Anne and Oliver Willingham, Clifford Willingham was born on March 15, 1882. In 1900, he lived with his parents in Oglethorpe, Georgia and worked as farm laborer. He married Mamie Wellingham and, in 1910, the couple lived in Wilkes, Georgia. According to his First World War Draft Card, he lived at 337 Flint Street and worked as a “section hand” at the S.A.R. Railroad. They remained at that address in 1920 and he worked as a laborer at “Moss Maine Co.” In 1930, he worked as a “Coal Yard” laborer and lived with his family at 337 Flint Street. At 48 years old, he died from unknown causes on February 19, 1931.
Foster John Male African American Free Laborer December 31, 1903 December 31, 1930 27 Gospel Pilgrim Cemetery Marked The son of Emma Shropshire and Robert H. Foster, John Albert Foster was born around 1904. On June 23, 1931, he died from acute endocarditis. At the time of his death, he worked as a laborer and lived with his wife at 1683 South Milledge Avenue.
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.
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.
Coleman Willie Female African American Free Student December 31, 1914 December 31, 1930 16 Gospel Pilgrim Cemetery Marked The daughter of Julia Coleman and D.K., Willie Mae Coleman was born around 1915. She attended school in Athens and lived at 258 Chase Street. She died from pulmonary tuberculosis on May 10, 1931. She was only 16 years old at the time of her death.
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.
Mullins Henry Male African American Free Cook December 31, 1869 December 31, 1930 61 Gospel Pilgrim Cemetery Marked Henry A. Mullins was born around 1870. He married Georgia Mullins and the couple had at least four children: Owen, Samson, Lumpkins, and Mary. In 1910, he worked as a city cook and owned a house at 236 S Collins Street. He died from unknown causes in 1931.
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.
W[??] Unknown African American Unknown December 31, 1931 50 Gospel Pilgrim Cemetery Marked [biographical information unknown]
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.
Stryckland [??] Unknown African American Unknown December 31, 1931 42 Gospel Pilgrim Cemetery Marked At 42 years old, [??] Stryckland died on November 20, 1932.
Terrell Annie Female African American Free Domestic December 31, 1893 December 31, 1931 37 Gospel Pilgrim Cemetery Marked The daughter of Charles and Lucy Shaw, Annie Terrell was born in 1894. She married Kino Terrell and, in 1910, they lived at 427 First Street. She died from acute myocarditis on October 30, 1932. According to her Death Index, she lived at 426 First Street and worked as a domestic.
Derricotte Ophelia Female African American Free Teacher December 31, 1881 December 31, 1931 50 Gospel Pilgrim Cemetery Marked The daughter of Charlotte L. Derricotte and Edward J. Derricotte, Ophelia Marie Derricotte Lyons was born on September 9, 1882. In 1900, she attended lived with her parents on Chase Street. According to Arthur Bunyan Caldwell’s Georgia, she married Charles Henry Spurgeon Lyons on September 8, 1909, and “she was educated at Athens and at Boston, and assists her husband in his work. Of the children born to them, two are living. They are Lottie Margaret and Charles Henry Spurgeon Lyons, Jr.” In 1920, she worked as a teacher in Athens. She died from cardiovascular renal disease on November 6, 1932. According to her Death Certificate, she worked as a teacher and lived at 427 Baxter Street.
McCleskey Edward Male African American Free Carpenter December 31, 1864 December 31, 1931 67 Gospel Pilgrim Cemetery Marked The son of Julia and William McCleskey, Edward McCleskey was born in March 1865. In 1930, he was widowed and owned a home at 220 Harris Street. He worked as a carpenter for much of his life. At age 67, he died from cardiovascular renal disease on September 19, 1932.
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.
Johnson Rhoda Female African American Free Laundress December 31, 1875 December 31, 1931 55 Gospel Pilgrim Cemetery Marked Rhoda Ann Johnson was born around 1876. In 1920, she was a widow and worked as a washerwoman. In 1920, she lived with her two daughters (Minnie and Lula) and her mother-in-law (Emma Lee Johnson) at 882 Water Street. According to the 1931 City Directory, she still lived at that same address. At 55 years old, she died from unknown causes on May 29, 1932.
Mack Charlotte Female African American Enslaved Domestic December 31, 1861 December 31, 1932 70 Gospel Pilgrim Cemetery Marked Charlotte H. Mack was born in 1862 and most likely enslaved as a child. She married John R. Mack, a post office clerk, in 1882 and the couple had at least eight children: Annie, Abram, Mattie, Fannie, Lucile, Richard, Milledge, and Walter. On June 21, 1933, she died from hypostatic pneumonia, myocarditis, and dilatation of heart. At the time of her death, she worked as a domestic and lived at 853 Reese Street.
Shaw Dicy Female African American Free Domestic December 31, 1876 December 31, 1932 49 Gospel Pilgrim Cemetery Marked The daughter of Clara Griffin and Remus Nesbit, Dicie Nesbit Shaw was born on October 16, 1877. She married Charley Shaw around 1896. According to the 1910 Census she worked as “Husbands Saleslady” in “Retail Groceries.” She died from interstitial nephritis and pulmonary stasis on July 1, 1933. At the time of her death, she worked as a domestic and lived at 428 Flynt Street.
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.
Crowder George Male African American Free Laborer December 31, 1896 December 31, 1932 35 Gospel Pilgrim Cemetery Marked The son of Chatie T. and George Crowder, George Crowder was born between 1897 and 1898 in Warren, Georgia. He married Lizzie Mae Powers on February 28, 1915 and they had at least one child. He worked various jobs, including a public laborer (1920 Census), laborer (1926 City Directory), and a porter (1931 City Directory). In 1931, he lived at "50 Brays Al[ley]. He died from a “sudden natural cause” on August 21, 1933. According to his Death Index, he lived at 50 Madison Avenue and worked as a common laborer.
Barksdale Andrew Male African American Free Waiter December 31, 1890 December 31, 1932 42 Gospel Pilgrim Cemetery Marked The son of Janie and Charlie Barksdale, Andrew Daniel Barksdale was born in November 1891 or 1892. As an 8 year-old child, he lived on Chase Street with his parents. In 1917, he lived in Lynwood Park in Clarke County, Georgia. He worked as a waiter before he was drafted into the army in 1918 and sent to Camp Funston in Fort Riley, Kansas. He died from unknown causes on June 17, 1933. After his death, Nancy Jane Timmons—who lived at 232 Gleen Avenue—applied for a military headstone for the grave.
Derricotte Fannie Female African American Enslaved Laundress December 31, 1861 December 31, 1933 72 Gospel Pilgrim Cemetery Marked The daughter of Gabrella and George Brown, Fannie Brown Derricotte was born around 1862 and most likely enslaved as a child. She was widowed sometime before 1900, and had at least two children: Mary and Willie. According to the 1880, 1900, 1910 and 1920 Census, She worked as a laundress. She died from cardio vascular renal disease on February 21, 1934. According to her death certificate, she worked as a domestic and lived at 825 W Hancock Avenue.
Morton Frank Male African American Free Tailor December 31, 1893 December 31, 1933 40 Gospel Pilgrim Cemetery Marked The son of William and Clara H. Morton, Frank B. Morton was born around 1894. In 1910, he lived with his mother and siblings on Chase Street. He worked as a butcher in 1910 and as a waiter in 1917. During the First World War, he served in the 157 Depot Brigade and was stationed at Camp Gordon. On November 8, 1924, he married Mary Gray. In 1930, he worked as a laborer. He died from myocardial weakness and nephritis on December 27, 1934. According to his Death Certificate, he worked as a tailor and lived at 784 Chase Street.
Sanders-McGee Sarah Female African American Free December 31, 1873 December 31, 1933 60 Gospel Pilgrim Cemetery Marked The daughter of Lou McCree, Sarah Sanders McGee (or McCree) was born around 1874. In 1880, she lived with her mother and siblings on Throne Street. She most likely married William Sanders and, in 1910, lived at 370 Hull Street.
Terrell Charles Male African American Unknown December 31, 1933 Gospel Pilgrim Cemetery Unmarked Charles Terrell Jr. was born around 1916. His parents, Charles Terrell and Julia Stuts, were both Athens natives. His father, “Chas” Terrell was noted to be a carpenter before his son was born, being listed along with his wife Julia in a 1912 Athens, GA directory living at 347 First Street. In the 1931 directory, however, “Chas” Terrell is said to be a cook, living on 389 Meigs St. On October 6, 1934, Terrell Jr.’s life was cut short after passing away at a tender age of 18 while he was still a schoolboy. The place of death is recorded to be 376 Odd Street. The cause of death was noted to be an acute dilatation of the heart, or nowadays known as dilated cardiomyopathy (disease of the heart muscle), with contributary causes of importance being listed as fever and overexertion. He was buried five days later in Gospel Pilgrim Cemetery on October 11, 1934 with his family in attendance. [Researched and written by Bita Jadali]
Jackson Farris Male African American Free Doctor December 31, 1893 December 31, 1933 39 Gospel Pilgrim Cemetery Marked The son of Sweetie Poulain Jackson and Thomas Nathaniel Jackson, Farris L. Jackson was born on September 30, 1894. In 1900, he lived with his parents and siblings at 456 Barber Street. In 1910, he attended school and lived at 133 Cleveland Avenue. At the start of the First World War, he worked as a physician in town and was exempted from the draft as a result. In 1930, he lived with his wife, Ruby, at 526 Hancock Avenue. He died from unknown causes on March 26, 1934.
Austin Nicey Female African American Enslaved Domestic December 31, 1842 December 31, 1934 92 Gospel Pilgrim Cemetery Marked Nicey Austin was born on May 12, 1843 (or sometime between 1843 and 1848) and most likely spent her youth enslaved. Described as a “Mulatto” in the 1880 Census, she could not read or write and worked as house servant in Athens, Georgia. In 1920 she was still working as a housekeeper and lived with her adult daughter, Mary Jefferson, at 130 Harris Street. Austin died from unknown causes on March 19, 1935.
Cox Mollie Female African American Free Laundress December 31, 1872 December 31, 1934 62 Gospel Pilgrim Cemetery Marked Mollie Cox was born around 1873. She married Richard Cox, a cotton mill laborer, and the couple had at least one child: Archie Cox. In 1900, she worked as a cook. According to the 1931 City Directory, she lived at 236 Bridge Street. At the time of her death on December 3, 1935, she worked as a laundress and lived at 237 Bridge Street in Athens.
Green Unknown African American Unknown December 31, 1934 Gospel Pilgrim Cemetery Marked According to the tombstone, [??] Green died on [August?] 4, 1935.
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.
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.
Smith Rosa Female African American Enslaved Domestic December 31, 1862 December 31, 1934 72 Gospel Pilgrim Cemetery Marked The daughter of Lottie and Mr. Jones, Rosa Jones Smith was born around July 4, 1863 and most likely enslaved as a child. She worked as a laborer in 1880 and a private family nurse in 1910. As a widow, in 1910, she lived 293 Cherry Street. She died from [??] and pneumonia on January 17, 1935. At the time of her death, she worked as a domestic and lived at 389 Dubose Avenue.
Huff Will Male African American Free Laborer December 31, 1894 December 31, 1934 40 Gospel Pilgrim Cemetery Marked The son of Alois Howard and Gib Huff, Will Huff was born on March 12, 1893 in Crawford, Georgia. He died from [??] of heart and nephritis on February 11, 1935. According to his Death Certificate, he worked as laborer and lived at 264 Bridge Street.
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.
Scruggs Ollie Female African American Free December 31, 1928 December 31, 1934 6 Gospel Pilgrim Cemetery Marked The daughter of Young and Olli Scruggs, Ollie Mae Scruggs was born on June 15, 1929 in North Carolina. At 6 years old, she died at the Athens General Hospital from endocarditis on October 6, 1935. In 1935, her father lived on Danielsville Road; this is most likely her last known address.
Lee Henry Male African American Free Farm Laborer December 31, 1878 December 31, 1934 56 Gospel Pilgrim Cemetery Marked The son of Ella and John Menifee, Henry L. Lee was born on March 14, 1879. He married Maggie Lee around 1900 and the couple rented a home in Oconee County in 1910. He worked as farm laborer. In 1930, he lived at 45 Rocky Branch Road in Oconee County. He died from unknown causes on December 15, 1935.
Thomas Violet Female African American Free Teacher December 31, 1892 December 31, 1935 42 Gospel Pilgrim Cemetery Marked The daughter of Julia Collins and Lucins Thomas, Violet Clyde Thomas was born on July 4, 1893 in Athens Georgia. She moved to Charlotte, North Carolina. She died from a cerebral apoplexy on January 28, 1936. According to her Death Certificate, she worked as a teacher and lived in Charlotte, North Carolina.
Malcolm Henrietta Female African American Free Domestic December 31, 1869 December 31, 1935 66 Gospel Pilgrim Cemetery Marked The daughter of William Whiles, Henrietta Malcolm was born around 1870. In 1920, she worked as a laundress and rented a home on Reese Street. On February 7, 1936, she died from cerebral apoplexy and acute [??] nephritis. At the time of her death, she was a domestic living at 1125 W Broad Street.
Nolan Robert Male African American Free Laborer December 31, 1870 December 31, 1935 65 Gospel Pilgrim Cemetery Marked The son of Eliza Harris Nolan and Peter Nolan, Robert Nolan was born around 1871 in Walton County, Georgia. He married Mary “May” Jackson on December 28, 1895 and the couple had at least three children: Edward, Robert, and Eva. In 1930, she worked as a cook and he worked as a “yard man.” The family lived at 434 Peabody Street. In 1931, they lived at 167 Peabody Street. At 65 years old, he died from “Nephritis [relation?] of the heart” on October 14, 1936. At the time of his death, he worked as a laborer and lived at 167 Peabody Street.
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.
Campbell Miller Male African American Free Soldier December 31, 1880 December 31, 1935 55 Gospel Pilgrim Cemetery Marked Miller L. Campbell was born around 1881. He enlisted as a private in the 1Cl. Hospital Corps in 1905; his military records described him as a man of dark complexion, with brown eyes, standing 5 foot 5 ½ inches tall. He most likely married Jane Campbell and lived at 748 Hull Street. He died from unknown causes on July 13, 1936 and was around 55 years old at the time of his death.
[Tiller?] William Male African American Enslaved Metal Worker December 31, 1854 December 31, 1935 81 Gospel Pilgrim Cemetery Marked The son of Eliza and Charles Tiller, William Tiller was born around 1855 and most likely enslaved as a child. In 1880, he was married to Ella Teller and they lived with extended family on River Street. He worked in a “in a Gin Shop” in 1880, as a “Tinner” in 1910, 1920, and 1930. He died from cerebral apoplexy and chronic nephritis on November 9, 1936. According to his Death Certificate, he worked as a Sheet Metal Worker and lived at 190 Fifth Street.
Johnson Will Male African American Free Laborer December 31, 1907 December 31, 1935 28 Gospel Pilgrim Cemetery Marked The son of Alice Johnson and N. Derricotte, Will Henry Johnson was born on September 10, 1936. He died from “labor pneumonia” and “pleural effusion” on May 21, 1936. He was living in Atlanta, Georgia at the time of his death.
Moore Winnie Female African American Free Domestic December 31, 1878 December 31, 1935 57 Gospel Pilgrim Cemetery Marked The daughter of Ann and Ben King, Winnie King Moore was born around 1879. She married Augustus Moore, a lunmber yard worker, and the couple had at least one living child: Cassie. In 1920, she did not work and lived her husband on Cleveland Avenue. She died from [chronic interstitial nephritis?], paralysis, and hypertension on December 3, 1936. At the time of her death, she worked as a domestic and lived at 199 Cleveland Avenue.
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.
Bell Judge Male African American Free Drayman December 31, 1866 December 31, 1936 70 Gospel Pilgrim Cemetery Marked The son of Harriett Jones, Judge Bell was born between 1867 and 1869 in Monroe, Georgia. He worked as a drayman for most of his life. Around 1885, he married Hattie E. Hutchinson Bell, a dressmaker, and the couple had at least six children—Luther, Waterloo, Hazel, Norma, Jerome, and Lillian. According to the 1904 City Directory, he still worked as a drayman and now lived at 15 Rock Spring Street. In 1920, the couple owned their own home at 165 N Rockspring Street and he was still living at that address when he died from Chronic Nephritis on July 22, 1937. The Jackson Funeral Home managed the interment.
Thomas Marion Male African American Free December 31, 1903 December 31, 1936 33 Gospel Pilgrim Cemetery Marked Marion Clemons Thomas was born around 1904. At 33 years old, he died on December 16, 1937.
Samuels Flora Female African American Free December 31, 1915 December 31, 1936 21 Gospel Pilgrim Cemetery Marked According to the tombstone, Flora Samuels was born around 1916. She married Samuels Buster, a helper at the Cherokee Service Station, and the couple lived at 288 Second Street in 1935. and At only 21 years old, she died from unknown causes around 1937.
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.
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
Hawkins S. Unknown African American Enslaved December 31, 1858 December 31, 1936 78 Gospel Pilgrim Cemetery Marked According to the tombstone, S. H. Hawkins was born (most likely enslaved) in 1859 and died in 1937.
Hawkins Katie Female African American Enslaved Domestic December 31, 1854 December 31, 1937 85 Gospel Pilgrim Cemetery Marked Katie B. Hawkins was born around 1853 and most likely enslaved as a child. In 1880, she worked as a servant and was married to Perry F. Hawkins, a blaster. The couple had at least five children: Julia, Fred, Will, Robert, and Clifford. As a wife and mother, she no longer worked in 1900 and the family lived at 320 Pearl Street. In 1928, she worked as a cook and was widowed at some point in the early 1900s. For two and a half years she was ill with chronic interstitial nephritis, and she died from cerebral apoplexy on September 9, 1938. At the time of her death, she was domestic and living at 147 Pearl Street (or 143 Pearl Street, According to the 1909 City Directory).
McMichael Amanda Female African American Free Domestic December 31, 1871 December 31, 1937 66 Gospel Pilgrim Cemetery Marked According to her tombstone, Amanda McMichael was born on 1872. According to the 1935 City Directory, she worked as a domestic and lived at 540 Odd Street. She died from unknown causes on 1938.
Billups Betty Female African American Enslaved Domestic December 31, 1859 December 31, 1937 76 Gospel Pilgrim Cemetery Marked The daughter of Sally and Joe McCree, Betty McCree Billups was born around 1860 and most likely spent her childhood enslaved. She married Simon Billups, a farm laborer, and the couple had at least thirteen children: including Jordan, Louis, M. J., Fannie, Sally, Anna, and Ivy. In 1910, however, only five children were living. She worked as a laundress in 1910 and was listed as a "domestic" at the end of her life. She died from apoplexy caused by a second stoke on December 8, 1938. As a 76 year old widow, she had been living at 670 W Broad Street at the time of her death .
Billups Burrell Male African American Free Restaurant Owner December 31, 1873 December 31, 1937 61 Gospel Pilgrim Cemetery Marked Isabelle and John Billups, Burrell W. Billups was born on July 4,1874. In 1911, he was a registered voter living in Athens. He married Janie Billups and the couple had at least two children: Katie and Arabella. He worked as a restaurant owner in 1920 and the family lived at 367 Chase Street. They still resided at that address in 1931 and 1938. He died from P. O. suppurative peritonitis on June 28, 1938.
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.
Carey Fannie Female African American Enslaved December 31, 1853 December 31, 1937 84 Gospel Pilgrim Cemetery Marked According to her tombstone, Fannie L. Carey was born on July 6, 1854 and most likely Enslaved as a child. She married Lucius Carey, a laborer, and the couple lived at 385 Arch Street in 1935. She diedfrom unknown causes on December 9, 1939. She was 84 years old at the time of her death.
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.
Heard William Male African American Free Blacksmith December 31, 1864 December 31, 1938 74 Gospel Pilgrim Cemetery Marked The son of Manerva and Thomas Heard, William Heard was born on February 12,1865 in Elberton, Georgia. Sometime before 1880, the family moved to Athens and he lived with his parents on Market Street. He worked as a “horseler” in 1880 and as a blacksmith in 1900, 1910, and 1920. He married Mattie Heard, a teacher, in 1897 and the couple does not appear to have had living children. He died from acute mitral regurgitation on September 26, 1939. According to his Death Certificate, he worked as a blacksmith and lived at 475 Reese Street.
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.
Bunkley Robert Male African American Free Pressing Club Proprietor December 31, 1894 December 31, 1938 45 Gospel Pilgrim Cemetery Marked The son of Luna Strickland and Frank Bunkley, Robert L. Bunkley was born on December 12, 1895. As a youth, he was a hack driver (1910) and worked as a pressing club proprietor for much of his adult life. He married Mildred Bunkley sometime after 1920. According to the 1937 City Directory, he owned a billards saloon at the corner of Hull and Washington Streets and lived at 449 Reese Street. On August 7, 1939, he died at St. Mary’s Hospital from a post-operative cerebral embolism, after his right leg had been amputated. He was only 45 years old and had been living at 449 Reese Street at the time of his death.
Deadwyler Mattie Female African American Enslaved Cook December 31, 1851 December 31, 1938 86 Gospel Pilgrim Cemetery Marked Mattie Deadwyler was born around 1852 and most likely enslaved as a child. In 1870, she worked as a domestic servant and lived in Elbert, Georgia. She moved to Athens sometime before 1900, and, at that time, lived with her two daughters (Mary and Martha) and a granddaughter (Gertrude) at 410 Reese Street. According to the 1900, 1910, 1920 Census, she worked as a cook. In 1930, she no longer worked and lived at 600 W Broad Street. She remained at this address, according to the 1938 City Directory. She died from unknown causes on January 4, 1939.
Whitfield W. Male African American Free Blacksmith December 31, 1864 December 31, 1938 74 Gospel Pilgrim Cemetery Marked W. M. Whitfield was born on April 18, 1865. According to the 1938 City Directory, he worked as a blacksmith and lived with his wife, Mittie, at 495 Reese Street. At 74 years old, he died from unknown causes on June 13, 1939.
McCree Nettie Female African American Free Laundress December 31, 1864 December 31, 1939 75 Gospel Pilgrim Cemetery Marked Nettie McCree was born around 1865. She married Ed McCree, a city street laborer, and the couple had at least one child: Maggie. In 1910, she worked as a laundress and rented a home at Green Street. According to the 1938 City Directory, the coupled lived at 543 Reese Street. At 75 years old, she died from unknown causes on May 7, 1940.
Austin Henry Male African American Free Laborer December 31, 1895 December 31, 1939 44 Gospel Pilgrim Cemetery Marked Henry L. Austin was born on February 28, 1896 in Washington, Georgia. During the First World War, he served as a private in the 157 Depot Brigade at Camp Gordon. At the start of the war, he lived at 528 Strong Street. After the war, he married Ada Austin, a cook, and in 1930 the couple lived in the rear of 574 Pulaski Street. It is unknown if they had children. In 1930, he worked as a laborer for the University of Georgia and, in 1935, he was a janitor, most likely for the university. In 1935, he and Ada lived at 150 N. Harris Street. He died from unknown causes on June 29, 1940. His wife, still living at 150 N Harris Street, ordered a military tombstone marker in1941.
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.
McIntosh Susan Female African American Enslaved Domestic December 31, 1849 December 31, 1939 90 Gospel Pilgrim Cemetery Marked The daughter of May Jane Stroud and Christopher “Kitt” Harris, Susan McIntosh was born around 1850 and enslaved as a child According to the WPA interviews, she was owned by the Stroud family. She married George McIntosh and the couple had one child: Andrew Jones. She worked as a domestic servant in 1870, a servant in 1880, and a laundress in 1900. As a widow in 1910 and 1920, she lived at 170 Paris Street. She died from on February 10, 1940. According to her Death Certificate, she worked as a domestic and lived at 1203 W. Hancock Street.
Thomas Hamilton Male African American Free December 31, 1909 December 31, 1939 30 Gospel Pilgrim Cemetery Marked Hamilton Thomas was born around 1910. At 30 years old, he died from unknown causes on December 26, 1940.
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.
Jarrell Savannah Female African American Free Domestic December 31, 1879 December 31, 1939 59 Gospel Pilgrim Cemetery Marked The daughter of Irene Pass and Wesley Deadwyler, Savannah Deadwyler Jarrell was born on August 28, 1880. She died from cerebral apoplexy and [??] hypertension on January 31, 1940. At the time of her death, she was 59 years old, worked as a domestic, and lived at 247 Chase Street.
Pope Simon Male African American Free Janitor December 31, 1869 December 31, 1939 70 Gospel Pilgrim Cemetery Marked The son of Washington Pope, Simon G Pope was born on July 4, 1870. He married Ida Pope and the couple had at least four children: Edwin, Leroy, Edmund, Celastine, and Simmie. He worked as a day laborer in 1900, gas worker in 1910, oil mill laborer in 1920, and janitor in 1940. He owned a house at 524 Vine Street in 1940. He died at home from a spontaneous hemorrhage and chronic myocarditis on October 31, 1940. At the time of his death, he worked as a janitor for the University of Georgia.
Thomas Tommie Male African American Enslaved Labroer December 31, 1863 December 31, 1939 76 Gospel Pilgrim Cemetery Marked The son or Margaret and Hampton Thomas, Tommie Thomas was born on May 15, 1864 and most likely enslaved. In 1870, he lived in Athens with his parents. He still lived with them in 1880, but also worked as butcher in that year. In 1930, he worked as a foreman for the transfer company. He died from chronic nephritis on March 11, 1940. According to his Death Certificate, he worked as a laborer and lived at 168 Warsaw Street.
Davis Minnie Female African American Free December 31, 1939 Gospel Pilgrim Cemetery Marked According to her tombstone, Minnie [H?] Davis died in February 1940. According to the 1904 City Directory, J. W. Daivs worked as a mail carrier and lived at 24 Strong Street. In 1909, he was married to Minnie Davis and they lived at 178 Strong Street.
Davis Minnie Female African American Enslaved Teacher December 31, 1858 December 31, 1939 80 Gospel Pilgrim Cemetery Marked The daughter of Aggie Crawford and James Young, Minnie Davis was born on December 13, 1859 near Penfield, Georgia. Enslaved to John Crawford, Davis spent her childhood in Athens, Georgia. Denied a formal education in slavery, Davis took full advantage of freedom’s offerings. She enrolled at Knox Institution, a school for black children that had been established by the Freedmen’s Bureau in the spring of 1868. She then graduated from Atlanta University before returning to Athens to teach school for over forty years. Her husband, Samuel B. Davis, published the Athens Clipper, a newspaper catering to Athens's emerging black, middle-class community. After his death, she ran the newspaper for a few years, before selling it. She died as a result of a dislocated hip on February 13, 1940.
Johnson Emanuel Male African American Free Janitor December 31, 1896 December 31, 1939 43 Gospel Pilgrim Cemetery Marked The son of Lulu and George Johnson, Emanuel Johnson was born in May 1897. In 1900, the family lived at 8 Oconee Street. He married Lonie Johnson and, in 1929, they lived at 260 Vine Street. At that time, he worked as a janitor. According to the 1931 City Directory, he worekd as a janitor at the First Baptist Church and lived at 260 Vine Street. He remained at that address, according to the 1940 City Directory. He died from unknown causes on October 2, 1940. He was only 43.
Lee Albert Male African American Free Butler December 31, 1912 December 31, 1940 28 Gospel Pilgrim Cemetery Marked The son of Susie B. and Albert Lee, Albert Thomas Lee was born around 1914. In 1930, he worked as a butler and lived at 424 Reese Street. In 1922, he was arrested for stealing goods and jailed. At 28 years old, he died from unknown causes on September 8, 1941.
Bunkley Mildred Female African American Free Pressing Club Worker December 31, 1891 December 31, 1940 49 Gospel Pilgrim Cemetery Marked Mildred Bunkley was born around 1886 and competed the first year of high school. Sometime after 1920, she married Robert L. Bunkley, a pressing club proprietor, and worked alongside her husband at the pressing club. For most of their life, the couple lived at 449 Reese Street. According to the 1937 City Directory, they lived at 449 Reese Street. On August 21, 1941, she died from unknown causes. She was in her late 40s at the time of her death.
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.
Morton Tallulah Female African American Enslaved December 31, 1861 December 31, 1940 79 Gospel Pilgrim Cemetery Marked Tallulah “Lula” Morton was born around 1862 and most likely enslaved as a young child. She was the second wife of Monroe “Pink” Bowers Morton and the mother of Monroe, Maude, Ida, and Charlie. She had borne six children, but only four lived to adulthood. In 1910, she lived with her family at 823 Prince Avenue. She did not work outside the home from 1910 to 1930. After the death of her husband in 1919, she remained in the house and lived with her son and daughter in 1930. At 69 years old, she died from unknown causes on August 3, 1941.
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.
Matthews John Male African American Free Merchant December 31, 1883 December 31, 1940 57 Gospel Pilgrim Cemetery Marked John T. Matthews was born between 1874 and 1884. He married Margaret “Maggie” Matthews, and the couple rented a home at 1095 W Hancock Avenue in 1920 and 1930. He worked as farmer in 1920 and was a dry goods store merchant in 1930. He died from unknown causes on March 27, 1941.
Smith Georgia Female African American Enslaved Laundress December 31, 1861 December 31, 1940 79 Gospel Pilgrim Cemetery Marked Georgia Smith was born around 1862 and most likely enslaved as a child. Sometime before 1910, she was married and widowed. She worked as seamstress in a Shirt Factory in 1910 and a laundress in 1920. In 1940, she lived alone at 420 Athens Avenue. At 79 years old, she died from unknown causes on January 1, 1941.
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.
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.
Lester Harris Alice Female African American Free Farmer December 31, 1874 December 31, 1941 67 Gospel Pilgrim Cemetery Marked Alice M. Lester Harris was born around 1875. In 1930, she worked as a farmer and lived in Madison County. She married Robert L. Harris and had at least nine children: O’Neal, John, Mattie, James, Eddie, Willie, Bettie, Ruby, and Sarah. In 1940, she no longer worked and lived with her husband at 473 Third Street. She died from unknown causes on November 23, 1942.
Mason Mattie Female African American Enslaved Nurse December 31, 1853 December 31, 1941 88 Gospel Pilgrim Cemetery Marked Mattie Shaw Mason was born in April 1854 and most likely spend her childhood enslaved. In 1900, she was a wife and nurse living at 1024 Billups Street. Still working as a nurse in 1920, her address was listed as Hancock Avenue. By 1930, she her address was again listed as Billups Street, this time living at 1196 Billups Street. She, then, lived at 1196 Hancock Avenue according to the 1940 Census. At 88 years old, she died from unknown causes on November 16, 1942.
Walker Lizzie Female African American Free Laundress December 31, 1873 December 31, 1941 68 Gospel Pilgrim Cemetery Marked Lizzie Walker was born on April 7, 1874. She appears to have gotten into an altercation with a neighbor in 1914. According to the 1924 City Directory, she worked as a laundress and lived at 220 Atlanta Avenue. In 1940 and 1942, Lizzie lived with Jason Walker, a laborer, and they lived at 259 N Chase Street. At 68 years old, she died from unknown causes on April 16, 1942.
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.
Hudson Charlie Male African American Enslaved Merchant December 31, 1857 December 31, 1941 84 Gospel Pilgrim Cemetery Marked Charlie Hudson was born around 1858 and most likely enslaved as a child. He married Maggie Hutson, a laundress, around 1904 and the couple lived at 387 Odd Street in 1910. He worked as a retail grocery merchant in 1910 and 1920. He died from unknown causes on October 29, 1942.
Smith Flournoy Unknown African American Unknown Laborer December 31, 1941 Gospel Pilgrim Cemetery Marked According to the 1931 City Directory, Flournoy Smith worked as a labor and lived at 160 Hendrix Avenue. They died from unknown causes on May 6, 1942.

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