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 Gendersort descending Race Status Occupation DOB DOD Age Grave Location Grave Marker Biography
Au[??] Ned Male African American Unknown Gospel Pilgrim Cemetery Marked [biographical information unknown]
Jameson Shores Male African American Free Driver December 31, 1871 Gospel Pilgrim Cemetery Marked Shoals Jamison was born around 1872 in Alabama. According to the 1904 City Directory, he worked as a butler and lived at 23 N Findley Street. In 1910, he worked as a coachman and lived with his wife, Ella Jamison, at 193 Pendley Street (193 Finley Street). He died from unknown causes on an unknown date.
Brittain Will Male African American Free City Worker December 31, 1866 December 31, 1925 57 Gospel Pilgrim Cemetery Marked The son of Gabriel Brittain, Will Brittain was born in November 1867 in Georgia. He married Brayne Brittin and the couple may or may not have had children. He died from apoplexy on March 21, 1926 and, at the time of his death, he “worked for the city” at lived at 140 [Glyn?].
Morton William Male African American Free 10 Gospel Pilgrim Cemetery Marked William Morton died when he was 10 years old. He was the brother of Lizzy C. Morton.
Freeman Edward Male African American Free December 31, 1965 Gospel Pilgrim Cemetery Unmarked According to his obituary, Edward M. Freeman, who resided at 237 North Church Street, died from unknown causes in May 1966. He was married to Julia A. Freeman. The funeral was handled by Hurley Funeral Home. He was interred in Gospel Pilgrim Cemetery; his grave may be unmarked.
Buedon Ora Male African American Free Gardener December 31, 1920 December 31, 1920 0 Gospel Pilgrim Cemetery Unmarked Data collected from death certificate.
[Thomas?] Lucius Male African American Free Printer December 31, 1866 Gospel Pilgrim Cemetery Marked The son of Randal Thomas, Lucius Thomas was born around 1867. In 1880, he lived with his father and siblings in Athens. He married Julia Collins Thomas and the couple had at least five children: Mary L., Walter, Sylvester, Violet, Charley, and Eugene. In 1900, they lived at 21 Washington Street and he worked as a printer. According to the 1910 Census, he worked as a “Type Setter.” In 1920, he worked as a printer and lived at 588 Hancock Avenue. He died from an unknown cause on an unknown date.
Fortson Jim Male African American Free December 31, 1919 0 Gospel Pilgrim Cemetery Unmarked Data collected from death certificate.
Holbrook Marion Male African American Free Post Office Clerk December 31, 1879 December 31, 1928 49 Gospel Pilgrim Cemetery Marked Marion J. Holbrook was born on April 14, 1879 or 1880. He married Carrie Jones Holbrook and the couple had at least two children: Marion and Georgia. He worked various jobs in his early years; he was barber in 1900 and a laborer at “Odd Jobs” in 1910. He started working as a post office clerk in 1911, and remained at that position for the remainder of his life. He intentional shot himself and died from two gunshot wounds on May 6, 1929. At the time of his death, he had been living with his wife at 130 Harris Street.
Derricotte Mathew Male African American Free Laborer December 31, 1899 December 31, 1943 54 Gospel Pilgrim Cemetery Marked Mathew “Booby” Derricotte was born around 1890. In 1909, he worked as a laborer and lived at 46 Hull Street. He married Lucy Derricotte and, according to the 1942 City Directory, they lived at 270 Fifth Street. He still worked as laborer. At 54 years old, he died from unknown causes on October 28, 1944.
Holmes Geo. Male African American Free December 31, 1923 0 Gospel Pilgrim Cemetery Unmarked Data collected from death certificate.
Morton Charlie Male African American Free Soldier December 31, 1894 December 31, 1947 52 Gospel Pilgrim Cemetery Marked Charlie L. Morton was born on November 17, 1895. At the start of the First World War, he lived at 784 Chase Street. He died from unknown causes on March 12, 1948. After his death, Mrs. Clara Morton applied for a military headstone on his behalf. She lived at 784 Chase Street, which was most likely his last known address as well.
[Carey?] Eddie Male African American Unknown Gospel Pilgrim Cemetery Marked [biographical information unknown]
Foster Jos. Male African American Free Laborer December 31, 1918 19 Gospel Pilgrim Cemetery Unmarked Data collected from death certificate.
Varnell Will Male African American Free Laborer December 31, 1925 55 Gospel Pilgrim Cemetery Unmarked Data collected from death certificate.
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.
Martin George Male African American Enslaved Laborer December 31, 1819 December 31, 1880 61 Gospel Pilgrim Cemetery Marked George Martin was born around 1820 and most likely spend the majority of his life enslaved. He married Mary Martin and the couple had at least one child: Essen Martin. In 1880, he worked as a laborer and the family lived on an “unnamed street near River Street.” He died from unknown causes in 1881. According to the 1897 City Directory, his wife lived at 648 Odd Street, East Athens; this is most likely his last address as well.
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.
Jarrell Robet Male African American Free Driver December 31, 1883 December 31, 1959 70 Gospel Pilgrim Cemetery Marked Robert Jarrell was born around 1883. In 1904, he married Mearly Taylor, who worked as “servant at Moss-Side, 497 Cobb Street, for forty-three years.” According to his First World War Draft Card, he worked as a driver and lived at 190 Cohen Street. According to the 1956 City Directory, he still lived at that address in 1956. At 77 years old, he died from unknown causes on May 13, 1960.
Brown Hamilton Male African American Free Printer December 31, 1903 December 31, 1970 66 Gospel Pilgrim Cemetery Marked The son of Mamie E. and Anderson Brown, Hamilton J. Brown was born on May 3, 1904. As a child, he lived on Reese Street with his parents. In 1947, he worked as a printer and, according to the 1947 and 1949 City Directories, he lived at 987 Reese Street. He died from unknown causes on January 25, 1971.
Morton Chester Male African American Free December 31, 1884 December 31, 1884 Gospel Pilgrim Cemetery Marked According to his tombstone, Chester Morton was born in March 1885 and died from unknown causes in July 1885. He was 4 or 5 months old at the time of his death. He is buried in the Morton plot in Gospel Pilgrim Cemetery and most likely lived at 823 Prince Avenue with the other members of the Morton family.
Lumpkin Dan Male African American Free Laborer December 31, 1926 45 Gospel Pilgrim Cemetery Unmarked Data collected from death certificate.
[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.
Lyons John Male African American Free Mason December 31, 1920 56 Gospel Pilgrim Cemetery Unmarked Data collected from death certificate.
Foster Lorenza Male African American Free Child December 31, 1926 December 31, 1926 0 Gospel Pilgrim Cemetery Unmarked Data collected from death certificate.
Wagner George Male African American Enslaved Plasterer December 31, 1918 65 Gospel Pilgrim Cemetery Unmarked Data collected from death certificate.
Poyner Thomas Male African American Free December 31, 1895 December 31, 1966 69 Gospel Pilgrim Cemetery Marked Thomas Poyner was born on October 15, 1896 (or around 1898). From his residence in Tignall, Georgia, he served in the 342 Labor Battalion during the First World War. According to the 1952 City Directory, he lived with Eddie F. (most likely his wife) lived at 115 Trail Creek Street. He died from unknow causes on April 25, 1967.
Aycock Homer Male African American Free Decorator December 31, 1901 December 31, 1959 58 Gospel Pilgrim Cemetery Marked Homer Aycock Sr. was born around 1902. He married Rosa Aycock, a laundress, and the couple had at least five children: Percy, Eva Lee, Anna C., and Homer Jr., Christine. He worked as an “Interior house Dectorator” in 1930 and 1940. In those same years, the family rented at home at 183 Lyndon Avenue. According to the 1949 City Directory, he still lived at 183 Lyndon Avenue. He died from unknown causes on November 16, 1960.
Parrott Henry Male African American Enslaved Laborer December 31, 1918 70 Gospel Pilgrim Cemetery Unmarked Data collected from death certificate.
Gilbert Robert Male African American Free December 31, 1952 Gospel Pilgrim Cemetery Unmarked According to his obituary, Robert Gilbert, who resided at 346 Bowie Street SW in Atlanta, died from unknown causes in January 1953. He was interred in Gospel Pilgrim Cemetery; his grave may be unmarked.
Johnson Reese Male African American Free December 31, 1957 Gospel Pilgrim Cemetery Unmarked According to her obituary, Reese Johnson, who resided at 130 Water Street, died from unknown causes in June 1958. The funeral was handled by Mutual Funeral Home. She was interred in Gospel Pilgrim Cemetery; her grave may be unmarked.
Howard Aurodite Male African American Free December 31, 1919 0 Gospel Pilgrim Cemetery Unmarked Data collected from death certificate.
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.
Morton Monroe Male African American Enslaved Businessman December 31, 1855 December 31, 1918 63 Gospel Pilgrim Cemetery Marked The son of a white man and Elizabeth Morton, Monroe “Pink” Bowers Morton was born enslaved around 1856. He most likely lived on plantation of John Phinizy. In 1870, he lived with his mother, “Lizzie,” and his siblings in Athens. He worked a number of jobs. According to the census, he worked at a retail grocery in 1880, post master in 1900, and a contractor in 1910. He was also a republican party leader, the owner and publisher of The Progressive Era (a black newspaper), a business leader, and a real estate owner, who built the Morton Theatre and facilitated the development of Athens’s “Hot Corner.” According to the Atlanta Independent (Jan. 30, 1904), “Mr. Morton is a self-made man, and has won his way to the front in business, politics, society by sheer force of character, distinct individuality, rare precocity and strict application to business.” In his personal life, he first married Amanda Morton, who died in 1885 He, then, married Tallulah Morton, his second wife, and the couple had several children, including Monroe, Maude, Ida, and Charlie. He died from cirrhosis of the liver and chronic myocarditis on February 12, 1919. He was, according to his Death Certificate, a “Retired Capitalist” who lived at 823 Prince Avenue. His obituary in The Athens Banner described him as “one of the wealthiest negros in the South.” The paper continued: “‘Pink’ Morton was well known not only in Athens, but throughout the state. He was one of the leaders of the republican party in Georgia, and at one time under the administration of President McKinley was postmaster of Athens. His career has been a most unusual one. Starting life as a slave in 1853 on the plantation of Phinizy’s near Athens, he became a leader of his race, and a most successful business man.”
Cheney Alex Male African American Free December 31, 1922 34 Gospel Pilgrim Cemetery Unmarked Data collected from death certificate.
Smith Betney Male African American Enslaved Cook December 31, 1922 71 Gospel Pilgrim Cemetery Unmarked Data collected from death certificate.
Johnson Seaborn Male African American Unknown December 31, 1946 Gospel Pilgrim Cemetery Unmarked According to his obituary, Seaborn Johnson, who resided in Monroe, Georgia, died from unknown causes in August 1947. He was interred in Gospel Pilgrim Cemetery; his grave may be unmarked.
Mathews Henry Male African American Enslaved Laborer December 31, 1854 December 31, 1916 62 Gospel Pilgrim Cemetery Marked Henry Mathews was born between 1855 and 1861 and most likely spent his childhood enslaved. In 1900, he worked as Rail Road Laborer and lived as a single, male boarder at 772 Georgia Railroad Street. He married Lizzie Mathews and, in 1910, the couple lived at 144 Summey. At that time, he worked as a city streets laborer. According to the 1914 City Directory, he worked as a laborer and lived at Summey, which intersected Lumpkin Street near Cedar Street. On February 7, 1917, he died from unknown causes.
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.
Payne Jesse Male African American Free Child December 31, 1926 1 Gospel Pilgrim Cemetery Unmarked Data collected from death certificate.
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.
Huff J. Male African American Free December 31, 1923 1 Gospel Pilgrim Cemetery Unmarked Data collected from death certificate.
Jefferson Robert Male African American Free Tailor December 31, 1865 December 31, 1900 34 Gospel Pilgrim Cemetery Marked The son of Ella and Edgar Jefferson, Robert Jefferson was born on May 1, 1866. In 1880, he lived with his parents and attended school. He married Mary L. Jefferson in 1890. In 1900, he worked as a tailor and live with his wife and four children—Robert, Geneva, Ellen, and Julian—at 8 Harris Street. He died from unknown causes on May 10, 1901.
Griggs Joe Male African American Free December 31, 1949 Gospel Pilgrim Cemetery Unmarked According to his obituary, Joe Henry Griggs, who resided at 280 Cain St NE in Atlanta, died from unknown causes in May 1950. He was interred in Gospel Pilgrim Cemetery; his grave may be unmarked.
Clarke Joseph Male African American Free Laborer December 31, 1923 13 Gospel Pilgrim Cemetery Unmarked Data collected from death certificate.
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.
Jones John Male African American Enslaved Cook December 31, 1831 December 31, 1916 85 Gospel Pilgrim Cemetery Marked John W. Jones was born on March 19, 1832 and most likely spent his early life enslaved. He married Georgia Thomas Jones, a cook, around 1881 and the couple had three living children. In 1900, he worked as a cook and owned a house at 360 Broad Street. In 1910, he rented a house at 563 Broad Street and did not work. According to the 1916 City Directory, he lived at 522 W Broad Street. He died from unknown causes on July 27, 1917.
Jones Charlie Male African American Free December 31, 1959 Gospel Pilgrim Cemetery Unmarked According to his obituary, Charlie Grant Jones, who resided at 462 Reese Street, died from unknown causes in January 1960. The funeral was handled by Hurley’s Funeral Home. He was interred in Gospel Pilgrim Cemetery; his grave may be unmarked.
Walker Charlie Male African American Enslaved Reverend December 31, 1919 65 Gospel Pilgrim Cemetery Unmarked Data collected from death certificate.
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.
Matthews Anderson Male African American Free Driver December 31, 1887 December 31, 1917 29 Gospel Pilgrim Cemetery Marked The son of Jennie Mathews, Anderson Matthews was born on July 15, 1888. He married Julia Cheney in November 1914. During First World War, he lived on W Hancock Avenue and worked as a chauffeur. According to the 1914 City Directory, he lived at 1423 W Broad Street. At 29 years old, he died from unknown on May 17, 1918.
Payne Jessie Male African American Free Laborer December 31, 1924 22 Gospel Pilgrim Cemetery Unmarked Data collected from death certificate.
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.
Huff John Male African American Free Laborer December 31, 1884 December 31, 1926 42 Gospel Pilgrim Cemetery Unmarked Data collected from death certificate.
Johnson Tom Male African American Free Laborer December 31, 1894 December 31, 1953 59 Gospel Pilgrim Cemetery Marked The son of Eveline Howard, Tom Johnson was born around 1895 or 1896. He most likely served in the 341 Service Battalion during the First World War. In 1920, he worked as a laborer at a cotton press and he and his mother rented a place at the rear of 789 Thomas Street. He died from unknown causes on April 7, 1954. At the time of his death, he lived at Apt. 188 803 Play Lane.
Cleveland J. Male African American Free Student December 31, 1925 18 Gospel Pilgrim Cemetery Unmarked Data collected from death certificate.
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.
Jones Walter Male African American Free December 31, 1954 Gospel Pilgrim Cemetery Unmarked According to his obituary, Walter Jones died from unknown causes in April 1955. He married Annie Jones, and the couple had at least two children—Melease Jones Winston and Walter Jones Jr. He was interred in Gospel Pilgrim Cemetery; his grave may be unmarked.
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.
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.
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.
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.
Hunter Sebe Male African American Free Merchant December 31, 1921 35 Gospel Pilgrim Cemetery Unmarked Data collected from death certificate.
Johnson William Male African American Unknown Reverend December 31, 1841 December 31, 1908 67 Gospel Pilgrim Cemetery Marked William D. Johnson was born in Maryland on March 19, 1842. In 1879, he married Alice V. Johnson of Georgia. The couple had at least five children. As a clergyman, Johnson could read, write, and owned his own house at 529 Lumpkin Street. He died from unknown causes on April 10, 1909.
Colbert Guy Male African American Free Student December 31, 1922 18 Gospel Pilgrim Cemetery Unmarked Data collected from death certificate.
Smith Peter Male African American Enslaved Laborer December 31, 1919 80 Gospel Pilgrim Cemetery Unmarked Data collected from death certificate.
Kenney Charlie Male African American Unknown December 31, 1964 Gospel Pilgrim Cemetery Marked According to his tombstone, Charlie Kenney died on August 16, 1965.
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.
Killian W. Male African American Free December 31, 1951 Gospel Pilgrim Cemetery Unmarked According to his obituary, W. H. Killian Sr. died from unknown causes in March 1952. He married Ruth Moon Killian, and the couple had at least three children, William Herty Killian Jr., Archibald Killian, Alfred Killian, and Clarence Killian. He was interred in Gospel Pilgrim Cemetery; his grave may be unmarked.
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.
Grant Render Male African American Free Chauffer December 31, 1922 23 Gospel Pilgrim Cemetery Unmarked Data collected from death certificate.
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.
Walker Macauloy Male African American Free Child December 31, 1920 0 Gospel Pilgrim Cemetery Unmarked Data collected from death certificate.
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.
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?].
Morton Charles Male African American Free Entertainment Industry December 31, 1902 December 31, 1969 67 Gospel Pilgrim Cemetery Marked The son of Monroe “Pink” Bowers Morton and Tallulah Morton, Charles Morton was born on February 27, 1903. In 1910 and 1920, he attended school and lived with his parents and siblings on Prince Avenue. In 1930, he worked as a “Machine operator” at the “picture show,” most likely at the Morton Theatre. According to his Second World War draft card, he worked for his family and lived at 823 Prince Avenue. According to the 1958 City Directory, he worked at Twentieth Century Billiards and lived, with Goldiee W., at 659 W Hancock Avenue. At 67 years old, he died from unknown causes on June 20, 1970.
Cole Loucious Male African American Free Driver December 31, 1904 December 31, 1924 20 Gospel Pilgrim Cemetery Unmarked Data collected from death certificate.
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.
Maxwell Charlie Male African American Free December 31, 1971 Gospel Pilgrim Cemetery Unmarked According to his obituary, Charlie Joe Maxwell, who resided at 253 Lyndon Avenue, died from unknown causes on June 12, 1972. The funeral was handled by Mutual Funeral Home. He was interred in Gospel Pilgrim Cemetery; his grave may be unmarked.
Green Rudell Male African American Unknown December 31, 1924 December 31, 1924 Gospel Pilgrim Cemetery Unmarked Data collected from death certificate.
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.
Walker Taylor Male African American Enslaved Farmer December 31, 1920 60 Gospel Pilgrim Cemetery Unmarked Data collected from death certificate.
Walker William Male African American Free Drayman December 31, 1919 36 Gospel Pilgrim Cemetery Unmarked Data collected from death certificate.
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.
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.
Johnson Eddie Male African American Free Laborer December 31, 1919 December 31, 1946 27 Gospel Pilgrim Cemetery Marked The son of Mattie Franklin and Eddie Ted Johnson, Eddie Johnson was born on May 9, 1920. He never married. In 1941, he lived in Chicago and worked on the Pennsylvania Railroad. Still living in the city, he was working as a “Bumper Factory Worker” when he died from unknown causes on November 13, 1947. The body was returned to Athens for burial in Gospel Pilgrim Cemetery.
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.
Morton Claud Male African American Free December 31, 1892 December 31, 1892 Gospel Pilgrim Cemetery Marked According to his tombstone, Claud Morton was born in February 1893 and died in June; he was just over 3 months old. He most likely lived at 823 Prince Avenue with the other members of the Morton family.
Howell Leonard Male African American Free December 31, 1954 Gospel Pilgrim Cemetery Unmarked According to his obituary, Leonard Howell, who resided in Atlanta, died from unknown causes in November 1955. He was interred in Gospel Pilgrim Cemetery; his grave may be unmarked.
Springs Charlie Male African American Free Drayman December 31, 1918 31 Gospel Pilgrim Cemetery Unmarked Data collected from death certificate.
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.
Griffen Thomas Male African American Free December 31, 1919 26 Gospel Pilgrim Cemetery Unmarked Data collected from death certificate.
Hunter Richard Male African American Free Laborer December 31, 1868 December 31, 1928 60 Gospel Pilgrim Cemetery Marked The son of Carolina and Richard Hunter, Richard Hunter was born sometime between 1857 and 1869 in Charlotte, North Carolina. He worked as a laborer on the city streets in 1910 and as a “general worker” in 1920. He married Rachel Hunter and the couple had at least three children: Anna Bell, Nellie Bell, and Christine. He died from pneumonia on March 16, 1929. According to his Death Certificate, he worked as a mechanic and lived at 487 Madison Avenue.
Marcellus Male African American Unknown Gospel Pilgrim Cemetery Marked [biographical information unknown]
Adams Clarence Male African American Free December 31, 1919 1 Gospel Pilgrim Cemetery Unmarked Data collected from death certificate.
Pope [??] Male African American Free Child December 31, 1918 0 Gospel Pilgrim Cemetery Unmarked Data collected from death certificate.
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.
Stephens Clide Male African American Free Barber December 31, 1920 38 Gospel Pilgrim Cemetery Unmarked Data collected from death certificate.
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.
McCree Sam Male African American Free December 31, 1955 Gospel Pilgrim Cemetery Unmarked According to his obituary, Sam McCree, the son of Ella Kelly and the husband of Rowena McCree, died from unknown causes on October 1956. The funeral was handled by McWhorter Funeral Home. He was interred in Gospel Pilgrim Cemetery; his grave may be unmarked.

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