PIEDMONT ATHLETIC ASSOCIATION HALL OF FAME In Appreciation to our LIFETIME MEMBERS OF THE PIEDMONT ATHLETIC HALL OF FAME Thank you for your support of the PAA and May God Bless ***Dan Avery Genice McIver Thompson Sharley L. Hill Wilford Walker Samuel E. Roberts, Sr. Thurman Norris Agnes Young Butch Smith Pauline W. Young Jessie Jamison Della Abercrombie Settles Thelma W. Mike Pinson ***Dr. W.F. Gibson Grady Brooks, Jr. Julius P. Pinson, Jr. Sadie Nesbitt ***Samuel L. Zimmerson, Sr. Abbie O. Collin Ernest Hamilton Ronald Cox Carolyn “Pete” Griffin Louis Blander George L. Stoddard Reginald D. Pearson Alene Bennett Baety Emanuel Sullivan Cora Dickey John Williams, Jr. ***John McCarroll Faye Wilson Rosa Byrd Willie Stephens John H. Williams, Jr. ***Richard Byrd John Melvin Abercrombie Clara Wharton Kilgore Esther Fleming Robinson ***Irvin Thompson M. Frederick Mitchell Grady Cooley Bessie Young Alan L. Mitchell Betty Sullivan Sullivan Bros. Mortuary Inc. Linda J. Sullivan Stewart Spinks Robena Gowens Herman Roberts John Gamble Ernestine Leamon Sandra Davis William C. Fleming Alfred Leamon Eliza Ballentine Marvin (Tub) Drummond U.J. Thompson Ellie D. Johnson Eugene Harrison ***Eddie Jones, Jr. Reginald Epps ***Jessie S. Reeves Thomas Fair Eddie Neal Winfred C. Daniels Ernest Jones Leroy Herbert Lula Yeargin Williams Dr. Patricia Drummond Thomas E. Freeman Rhoda B. Gibson Johnny E. Poole Bobbie J. Goldsmith Samuel M. Bailey William (Dacus) Brown R.C. Gamble, Jr. Louie Golden Vardrey F. Fleming Shirley Ann Lee Ezell Sullivan Hazle Woodard, Jr. Willie Boyd Isaac Johnson Betty W. Golden Lewis C. Sullivan Willie Wooden Earl L. Daniels Gregory Knuckles Annie R. Riggins Willie Henderson Harry Mitchell Special Dedicated Life Members Anna Smith Bobby Riley **We are in the process of updating our Lifetime Members, and if by chance your name was left off this list, please accept our apology and see one of the following: Emanuel Sullivan, Ernest Hamilton. ***Our Deceased Members
PIEDMONT ATHLETIC ASSOCIATION HALL OF FAME
1 PIEDMONT ATHLETIC ASSOCIATION HALL OF FAME GREETINGS From the Executive Director of the Association
March 2019
Dear Friends:
On behalf of the Board of Directors, I welcome you to the Piedmont Athletic Association’s Twenty Eighth Annual Hall of Fame Banquet and Induction Ceremonies.
The expressed purpose of the Hall of Fame is to honor those males and females who, by their accomplishments in and service to high school sports, bring honor to Greenville County, to South Carolina, and to the nation. I am sure you will agree that we fulfilled our purpose with this evening’s group of 15 inductees from the former Beck, Bryson, Lincoln, Sterling, and Washington High Schools of Greenville County. Also a special recognition presentation.
We ask you to join us in congratulating this outstanding group of athletes and sports administrators who have played major roles in developing positive images for today’s students. Our inductees have brought fame and honor to themselves, their families, and their high schools.
The Board of Director thanks you for joining us for this induction ceremony, and we hope your evening with us will be an enjoyable and memorable one.
Sincerely,
Emanuel Sullivan Executive Director
2 PIEDMONT ATHLETIC ASSOCIATION HALL OF FAME PROGRAMME BANQUET AND INDUCTION CEREMONY Saturday, March 16, 2019 Introduction of MC Richard Dawkins Master of Ceremonies PARADE OF CHAMPIONS Grace The Occasion Attorney Ernie Hamilton Memorial Tribute Abbie Collins Hall of Fame General Membership Drive Rosa Byrd SPECIAL RECOGNITION: CHARLES “EDDIE” GARDNER MUSIC BY THE CAROLINA PLAYERS BAND: Please enjoy your Dinner PRESENTATION OF INDUCTEES The Mighty Great & Legendary Beck High School Panthers Carrie Dell Walker ‘69 Charles Gray ‘70 William Shay Lloyd ‘67 The Great & Legendary Bryson High School Hurricanes Mary Wharton Miller ‘67 Shirley Cook Madden Garrett ‘60 Harold Means ‘58 The Great & Legendary Lincoln High School Rattlers Gail Murray Howard ‘68 Annie Jean Sullivan Gaffney ‘56 Edith Byrd Moss ‘68 The Great & Legendary Sterling High School Tigers Claude Smith ‘66 Cheryl Smith Breaux ‘68 Theodore McNeil ‘62 The Great & Legendary Washington High School Falcons Henrimae Downer Pruitt ‘63 Betty Robinson Rucker ‘68 David Lee Beaty ‘70 Good night and get ready for the Hall of Fame 30 Year Full Formal Tuxedo and Ballroom Gown required for admittance Dinning and Show in 2021
PIEDMONT ATHLETIC ASSOCIATION HALL OF FAME
3 PIEDMONT ATHLETIC ASSOCIATION HALL OF FAME SPECIALINDUCTEES RECOGNITION
F H G O ON N O I R CHARLES EDWARDR GARDNER R IN R G O “Eddie”OF HON Charles was born to the late Lawrence Lopez and Minnie Thompson Gardner on July 12, 1946 and has been married to his high school sweetheart (Carol Jean Austin) for 51 years. From their union, they were blessed with 6 children, 16 grandchildren, and 9 great-grandchildren. He graduated from Washington High School in 1964, where he played football, played trombone in the band, and was an active member of the student council. Pursuing higher education, Charles attended Voorhees College in Denmark, SC. During his junior year, he decided to join the Navy. As he sat for semester exams during his junior year, he received an unexpected call from the Navy Recruiter saying there was an opening, and if he wanted it, he should report immediately. He didn’t even finish his exam; instead, he spent almost five years serving his country in the U.S. Navy. After completing basic training at the Great Lakes Naval Base in Illinois, Charles achieved the following: • Graduated from The Nuclear Power School, Bainbridge, Maryland; • Graduated from The Nuclear Prototype Training School in Ballston Spa, New York as a certified Nuclear Reactor Operator; • Completed Submarine School at Groton Naval Base in Groton, Connecticut, qualifying to serve on submarines; and quali- fied Submarine in one patrol; • He also completed Nuclear Power Welding School, qualifying him to weld on nuclear power systems; • Charles made the rank of E6 in less than 4 years, an achievement made by very few and was a First Class Machinist Mate on the USS Nathaniel Green and the USS Lafayette. When Charles separated from the Navy, he became involved with the Greenville County Library, emphasizing programs for low-income communities. Determined to make a difference, he repaired, painted, and drove an old, big red library van into the neighborhoods blasting music that drew the children. Gardner offered games, films and the gift of a library card. He started a Saturday morning movie program that offered a free ticket for a book read. Eventually, on any Saturday, as many as 200 children participated. This program won the John Cotton-Dana Award, a national honor. As a children’s story teller, Charles appeared on television weekly promoting reading and captivating the attention of children. In 1974, Charles accepted the position of Director of Community Relations with the City of Greenville, and eventually became The Director of Community Development and retired as The Director of community services, with responsibility for Parks and grounds, Recreation, The Zoo, Building Maintenance, Community Development and Relations and all city facilities. During his professional career, Charles compiled over 35 years of community development and affordable housing experience. In his work at the City of Greenville, Charles crafted neighborhood revitalization initiatives and developed workforce and affordable housing programs. Under his direction, the City’s programs set a high standard for progressive, innovative and creative endeavors. Below are just a few of the many achievements Charles recorded over the course of his long career. • Established the Community Development Division in 1975 when the City of Greenville received its Green Avenue neighborhood; first allocation of Community Development Block Grant Funding; • Development of Washington Point - 28 units of affordable rental and for sale homes in the Southern • New community centers were built in the Greenline/Spartanburg, Nicholtown, West Greenville and Side Community; Sullivan Street Communities; Sear Shelter was renovated for senior citizens; • Created the Owner-Occupied Rehabilitation Program for homeowners living on fixed incomes who • John Wesley United Methodist Church and Mattoon Presbyterian Church received funding to improve need assistance with home repairs; their day care facilities; • Developed public-private partnerships involving lenders, corporations, and private developers to • Spartanburg Street was widened and improved; contribute expertise, funding and other resources to the revitalization of neighborhoods and the • Rebecca Street was widened and sidewalks added; development of affordable and workforce housing; • Major rehabilitation initiatives in the Hampton/Pinckney, Nicholtown and Greenline/Spartanburg • Innovative use of federal funds to acquire property, improve infrastructure and provide public services Neighborhoods; to improve the quality of life in our Special Emphasis Neighborhoods; • Initiated the revitalization of the Viola Community. This Neighborhood was named by the Southern • Provided funding for the renovation of Phyllis Wheatley’s Gymnasium and the Field Crest swimming Living Magazine as one of the top ten comeback neighborhoods in the Southeast; pool; • Development of Walker Place Subdivision - 27 units of affordable rental and for sale homes in the • Provided funding for Phyllis Wheatley’s Leadership Development program; West Greenville neighborhood; • Organized the 1st UNCF radio-thon fundraiser in the Greenville area and for several years coordinated • Development of Landwood Ridge Senior Housing Community; UNCF tele-thon and banquet. • Development of the Genesis Court Community - 30 units of affordable rental and for sale units in the Charles devoted his professional career to enriching and improving the quality of life in marginalized and distressed neighborhoods in the City of Greenville. While his job as Greenville’s Director of Community Development carried broad and varied responsibilities his record shows a steady and laser focus on one particular area - affordable housing. That focus didn’t stop with his retirement in 1999. To this day, he continues a wide involvement on local, state, and national boards and commissions; and in conducting training throughout the Southeast. Here is a sampling of his many engagements: • An organizer and Charter member of the The Board of Directors of Piedmont Athletic Association; • Member of Southeastern Regional Advisory Council of Wachovia Bank and Wells Fargo Advisory Board; • Commissioner on the U.S. Housing and Urban Development National Commission on Severely Dis- • SC Governor’s Affordable Housing Task Force (Past President); tressed Public Housing; that resulted in the creation of The Hope VI program that provided funding • National Comprehensive Housing Affordability Strategy Advisory Committee to the Secretary of the for Heritage Green and Arcadia Hills; U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development; • Charter President of South Carolina Low-Income Housing Coalition; • Board member and past president of Nehemiah (Housing) Cooperation; • National Low Income Housing Coalition (Board member representing the state of South Carolina as • Commissioner of SC State Housing Finance and Development Authority since March, 2012 which an NLIHC state partner); administers the SC Housing Trust Fund; • Member of the first Affordable Housing Advisory Council of the Federal Home Loan Bank of Atlanta; • and Licensed Real Estate Agent. Charles is a man motivated by kindness and affection for communities in need. His passion and impact on housing continues today. However, (having been a little league football coach for 10 years) if you were to ask young millennial men in the community about “Gardner”, they would not tell you about the housing policies that he changed, or the affordable housing that he built, but they would tell you about how he changed their lives as their football coach (The C.C.C. Raiders), instilling them with character and the motivation to achieve their dreams. Whether in housing or working with young men, Charles did not go where the path led; instead, he created his own path leaving a trail for those who dare to follow.
4 PIEDMONT ATHLETIC ASSOCIATION HALL OF FAME ALMA MATERS
ling Ster W a s h n i o n
s g
y t r o
1991 B n 2019
Li nc ck ol n Be
Dear Bryson High, Our Bryson High As we stand here at your portals, Our hopes reach high up to the sky. Dear J. E. Beck High. The more we think of you it’s true, Singing loud your hymns of praises From the hills of the Blue Ridge We bring to you, all our love. Till they reach the sky. To the waves across the sea, And as we stand before thy doors, Hail O Hail dear J. E. Beck High, Let us hold aloft thy banner, Sons and daughters arms unfold; Hear the echoes ring; And proudly sing of thee. To welcome those whohave not told, Hail to thee our alma mater, Let us keep the spirit glowing That our hearts are made of gold. Hail O Hail we sing. Throughout eternity; Oh Bryson High, Dear Bryson High, As we go along life’s byways May thy sons be ever loyal We’ll love thee more as days go by. We’ll always be true; Saturday, March 27, 2010 And stand for liberty. And as the years go passing by Heart and mind will always cherish Let us greet the Green and Gold Your memories will never die. Fond memories of you. With a strong and cordial cheer, May our herts be ever loyal To our Alma Mater dear. As we stand here at thy portals, In our hearts the echoes dwell; It’s ever onward forward Sterling High School, Sterling High School Washington, dear Washington Fro mthe school we love so well. Sterling High School, Bless her name! the pride of all our hearts Though thy walls are gray and hoary Whether in defeat or victory. Washington dear Washington And our stories are so old, We are loyal just the same; to thee we’ll never part We will cherish every memory So we’ll cheer for Sterling High School, we will love and cherished thee Of our colors green and gold. And for her we’ll fight for fame as long as we shall live Yes we love our Alma Mater, And we’ll sing her praises loud in every land so, give three cheers to our dear Dear old Lincoln is so true. Sterling High School, Bless her name! school, dear Wash-ing-ton Thou shalt dwell within our memory As we love to think of Thee. We have roamed these hills together While our hearts wer eyoung and free And as life goes on forever, We shall always think of thee.
PIEDMONT ATHLETIC ASSOCIATION HALL OF FAME
5 PIEDMONT ATHLETIC ASSOCIATION HALL OF FAME INDUCTEES CARRIE DELL WALKER Carrie Dell Walker is a member of the Class of ‘69 from J. E. Beck. The class of 1969 is a very special class because Carrie Dell was not only the most popular person in the class; she was the heart and soul of the whole school. The class of ’69 will celebrate its Fifty year class reunion in this year of 2019 starting with their classmate Carrie Dell Walkers induction into the PAA Hall of Fame. Dell’s recognition marks the momentous reality of the mythical like circumstances that she and those members of Dell’s class represent to the world. No Senior High School class on earth has ever-open a 1.5 million dollars school building beginning in the 9th grade as Freshman and the school stop being a High School the next year following the class Senior year graduation. Dell’s class is pure Black and Gold; never started at another high school and did not have to finish at another High. The class, only one of its kind in the world, believe me. Dell was the only one of her kind at Beck also, a remarkable cheerleader for three years. Dells deity at Beck High her senior year expanded deeply thru the student body as a senior class officer, as part of “Our Gang” the state of affairs on and off campus was under control. Today, Dell is the Mother of Yolandra Pepper, who is married to Terrance Pepper. She has three grandchildren, Jaque Moseley, Tariney Pepper and Jarin Pepper. She lives in Greenville, S.C. with her companion Mr. Jimmy Leamon. Her hobbies are playing cards and spending time with my four sisters, Louise Sullivan, Patricia Butler, Vanessa Dennis and Prescilla Walker. She is also retired from Union Carbide and Span America, and presently working part-time as a home heath care provider.
6 PIEDMONT ATHLETIC ASSOCIATION HALL OF FAME INDUCTEES CHARLES GRAY Charles Gray attended Nicholtown Elementary School and Beck High School where they won the State Championship in1968-69. His senior class is also one of the rare occurrences that happen in life and what those students that attended J.E.Beck experienced. The Beck High experience will forever be demonstrated thru the focus of the Class of 1970. Charles and his classmates open Beck but did not graduate from Beck’s campus. Forced to leave the Panther Den and finish in the middle of their senior year another school. Charles was voted best personality in his senior year he graduated from Beck/JLMann High School in 1970. He attended Greenville Tech , where he received a degree in welding. He worked at fiber Industries for 16years where he met and married Virginia Brockman in 1978. He retired from Solvay Carbon Fibers in 2018 after 30 years of service Charles has 2 sons, 2 daughters in Law and 5 grandchildren. He enjoys yard work and singing in church choir at Lowndes Hill Baptist Church where he serves as trustee.
7 PIEDMONT ATHLETIC ASSOCIATION HALL OF FAME INDUCTEES WILLIAM LLOYD “Shay” William Lloyd graduated from Beck High School in 1967. He went on to serve in the Us Army for 16 years. William received a triple Purple Heart from his time served in Vietnam. He currently resides here in Greenville, S. C. and enjoys spending time with his youngest two grand kids. Shea is in a relationship with Mary Turner. He has three adult children and five grand kids. Many thanks to the PAA for this recognition. Facebook page: Shayla Lloyd Sadler February 20 at 8:05 PM As some of you know my dad calls me his Dollbabe and I’m definitely a daddy’s girl! Over the years he has told me often that he is proud of me for this or that. When I was little I thought the sun use to rise and shine on his shoulders! As I grew up and things changed with him those thoughts changed... I found myself disappointed more than anything when it came to my dad. What was harder though was that he often found himself disappointed in himself too. But God. Although my dad made many questionable decisions his story didn’t end there! He is still here almost 70 years old now fulfilling his purpose. I am so grateful that he found two little reasons (RJ and Rylee) to live again and make better choices. Today I was blessed with the opportunity to say to him I am proud of you, he is the 2019 Piedmont Athletic Association Hall of Fame INDUCTEE for Beck High School class is 1967. I am proud of the recognition BUT mainly I am proud of the fact the he chose to live and is still here today to be honored. #boundbyGodsGrace #morethanadevotional #itsabeautifulstory
8 PIEDMONT ATHLETIC ASSOCIATION HALL OF FAME INDUCTEES MARY ALICE WHARTON MILLER Mary Alice Wharton Miller was a 1967 graduate of Bryson High School. She feels that it is a great honor being nominated to become a member of Piedmont Athletic Association Hall of Fame. She would like to thank her family, her friends, her classmates, and her church members for their support. Reared in Fountain Inn, SC she was born to the union of the late Rev. Odell and Macie Wharton. She is the fifth child of twelve children. Mary’s early elementary years were spent at Pleasant View Elementary School in Gray Court SC. Sixth and Seventh grades were completed at Bryson Elementary School. While attending Bryson High School, this new experience allowed her to meeting new people and get involved in many activities. She was a cheerleader, played powder puff football, played basketball, and ran track and field. Other accomplishments include: 1966- Crowned Miss Junior Class Queen 1966- Junior Class Reporter, Member of the Block “B” club 1967 —Miss Homecoming Attendant 1967- Most Athletic along with Ezell Sullivan After graduating from Bryson High School, she continued her studies at Greenville Technical College in Greenville SC and Friendship Junior College in Rock Hill SC. She worked in the chemical lab at Texize Chemical, Mauldin SC for eleven years. After being employed for thirty-three years, she retired from the Human Resources Department of Distribution Technology and The Foreign Trade Zone Charlotte NC, on June 30, 2017. Mary is married to Edwin J Miller, and the proud parent of two children Brian (Jaye) and Markeisha (Rev. Persell Ross) and four lovely grandchildren. Mrs. Miller is a member of China Grove AME Zion Church in Rock Hill SC. She serves as Missionary President, Class Leader, Benevolence Ministries, member of the gospel choir and President of Deaconess Board. Her hobbies include her love for decorating, completing crossword puzzles and housecleaning.
9 PIEDMONT ATHLETIC ASSOCIATION HALL OF FAME INDUCTEES HAROLD CALHOUN MEANS The eighth of nine children of Roscoe and Elizabeth “Lizzie” Walker Means was born October 13,1938 in Greenville, South Carolina. Harold is married to the former Doris Jones, a devoted wife. Harold was educated in the Greenville County Public Schools where he graduated from Joseph R. Bryson High School in the class of 1958. Upon graduation, he attended Denmark Area Trade, now known as Denmark Technical College where he earned his Certificate in Automotive Mechanics. He furthered his studies at South Carolina State College and Clemson University. Harold served in the United States Army in 1961 at Fort Jackson, Columbia, South Carolina and Fort W. Davis, Canel Zone, Panama. He returned home with an Honorable Discharge. It was then that he opened his Automotive Service and Repair Shop with his cousin, Melvin Evans. In 1964, Harold received his teaching credentials beginning his 28 year teaching career with then School District of Greenville County, South Carolina. For two years he taught at Washington High School; finishing his career at Donaldson Career Center. Harold and his students traveled across the country winning many contests and awards from Automotive Corporations. In addition to his long teaching career, Harold also used his talents in carpentry/ building, welding and real estate. In 1995, Harold opened “Power Transmission”, now known as “Powertrains Plus” located at 327 August Road in Greenville. Harold is a member of Laurel Creek United Methodist Church. He enjoys riding his motorcycle when time permits.
10 PIEDMONT ATHLETIC ASSOCIATION HALL OF FAME INDUCTEES GAIL MURRAY HOWARD Mrs. Gail Murray Howard was born as Gail Russell Murray to the late Esley Murray and Rosa Lee Sherman. Mrs. Howard was born a twin in a family of 12 children, her twin sister passed at birth leaving Mrs. Gail to celebrate their life. The Murray family lived in Tigerville where she attended one of the best schools Lincoln High School which was located in Taylors SC. Mrs. Gail attended Lincoln High School from 1st grade to high school where she graduated in 1968, this was a great memory that she told to her children as they grew up. After graduating high school, she attended Greenville Technical College for 1 1/2 years then went into finance for 24 1/2 years. Through this journey Mrs. Gail attended church at New Salem Baptist Church where she is still a member and server and held multiple positions and titles in the church. Mrs. Gail Howard was married to the late John C. Howard they have 2 children; daughter Sharon Howard McBee, son John Howard. Mrs. Gail has a son-in law Leon McBee, a daughter-in law Mrs. Brandy Howard, and two granddaughters Jada Howard and Allyssa Lee. Mrs. Gail Howard played basketball under Coach Lulu Murriel at Lincoln High School. Mrs. Gail remembers the teachers at Lincoln High School took on more than just teaching, they provided support as if they were our parents. I was lucky to attend a school like Lincoln High School, it made Mrs. Gail a better person through her journey in life.
11 PIEDMONT ATHLETIC ASSOCIATION HALL OF FAME INDUCTEES ANNIE JEAN SULLIVAN GAFFNEY Annie Jean Sullivan Gaffen graduated from Lincoln High School in 1956. While at Beck, Annie played basketball. She was the 1st Homecoming Queen that Lincoln ever crowned. Annie also enjoyed time in the Home Economics Club.
12 PIEDMONT ATHLETIC ASSOCIATION HALL OF FAME INDUCTEES EDITH BYRD MOSS “Bird” Edith Byrd Moss, “Bird” is the daughter of the late and wonderful mother, Edith McCrary Byrd of Greenville, South Carolina and the late Harold Byrd of Detroit, Michigan. Edith Edna attended Lincoln School from 1956-1968, ranking #10 in her graduating class. She attended Barber-Scotia College in Concord, NC, North Greenville College and graduated from Greenville Tech College with a Health Science Degree. She also studied at Lander University for three and half years. Edith married Kenneth Moss and from that union they had one son, Padarrah. She has a daughter-in-law and one granddaughter, nieces, great nephews. “Bird” was a high scoring forward her three years of playing basketball and was captain for one year. Leading the team to the state championship in 1967 against Camden High School where she scored 42 points that night with the help of awesome team guards and other forwards. Prior to moving her residence to the Atlanta Metro Area, she was an active community leader. She organized and developed the Nicholtown Neighborhood Association and granted a 501(3)(c) title status by James “Jim” Miles 40th Secretary of State of South Carolina. Locally Edith worked with the City, County and State governance under the leadership of the Honorable Ralph Anderson, City Councilman, Raymond Martin and former County Councilman Fletcher Smith. Together over 200,000 was awarded to Maco Terrace and Ackley Road project for infrastructure, sidewalks and curbing. Our organization also participated in the Adopt-A- Highway program. In recent years Edith has been an Alzheimer’s advocate in the State of Georgia from 2012-2014, corresponding with Legislatures in her district on certain laws and bills for appropriations and Research funding to help eradicate this degenerative disease, Dementia/Alzheimer’s in our life time. Edith participated in the Emory University School of Medicine Senior Mentor Program, and the Nell Hodgson Woodruff School of Nursing, which pairs students in medical fields with active adults 65 and older. The purpose is to provide an opportunity for future health care providers to learn more about community with older adults. Edith’s home church is Jubilee Baptist Church, in Taylors, SC and she is also a member of Open Word Christian Ministry in Fairburn, Georgia. “Praise God for blessing and keeping me all through the years, and with new visions and dreams for a family caregiving organization, I shall do business in the name of the “most high” God forever.” Edith is currently a seasonal employee of Laz Parking facility at the Atlanta Braves Stadium in Cobb County Georgia in the retail venue division.
13 PIEDMONT ATHLETIC ASSOCIATION HALL OF FAME INDUCTEES THEODORE MCNEIL William Theodore “Ted” McNeil was born to the late Luther & Emma Lois McNeil in Greenville, South Carolina. Ted has four brothers and had two sisters. Both sisters are now deceased. At an early age Ted and his siblings were taught to maintain self- respect, self-discipline, integrity, respect for others and being kind-hearted toward their neighbors. The most important fact that their parents taught them was the significance of being in church. As a child, their mother taught them they all needed to worship God because in their later life, they would have to work out their own salvation. At age five Ted was enrolled at Sullivan Street Elementary School, at that time elementary school included grades 1-7. He began 8th grade at Sterling High School, his favorite subjects were English, Biology, History, Science, Social Studies and French (which I never perfected). He started playing football during his sophomore year under the late Coach Joseph D. Mathis, he taught all those who played under his coaching about self-control, self-respect, respect for others, self-discipline, integrity and time management. During his Senior year with the aid of the late Julius Kilgore, Ted was awarded a football scholarship to North Carolina A & T University. At the first day of practice the football coach, the late Berth Pickett, informed all sixty players who had received football scholarships that the Athletics Department didn’t have enough funds to provide for everyone. He played for one year. Ted was provided the opportunity to work on campus in the cafeteria which provided funds to complete his education and earn his BS and Master’s Degree in education and psychology. Ted was employed at the Piedmont Center for Mental Health Services for twenty-two years, prior to working here he was employed three years at Greenville Technical College as the Testing Coordinator and later became counselor for students in both the Business and Engineering Department. Lastly, Ted is the Vice Chair of the Deacon Ministry and a Sunday School Teacher at Poplar Springs Baptist Church. He has attended numerous classes from both the Congress of Christian Education and the Superintendent’s Forum. He is both a certified teacher and counselor by the Congress of Christian Education.
14 PIEDMONT ATHLETIC ASSOCIATION HALL OF FAME INDUCTEES HENRIMAE DOWNER PRUITT Henrimae Downer Pruitt born in Greenville, S.C. , raised in Piedmont, S.C. on Brown Road. She was the 4th child of 10 children, 6 girls and 4 boys; and mother, Bertha M Downer and father Thomas ”TiT” Henry Downer. Henrimae’s dad operated a Club called the Rock House on Brown Road in Piedmont, back in the day. She attended Fuller Normal Elementary from 1st to 7th grade school; then went to Sterling High School in the 8th thru 10th grade(loved Sterling High) ; before transferring to attended Washington High School. Henrimae went to Washington High School in the 11th grade and graduated in 1963 from the home of the Washington High School Falcons . She played basketball in the 11th grade and had had a great time. She is married to Richard Pruitt and on March 27, the two of them will have been married to each other and no other for 49 years. They have 1 son, Kevin L. Pruitt. She attended Greenville Tech learning Secretary Business to become a Insurance Agent. She has been in the business 38 years and still working today. Mrs. Pruitt’s main goal is helping people for their Medicare and life Insurance & Annuity; and helping families to get a free Will. She is a member of Reedy River Baptist Church, working the HR committee.
15 PIEDMONT ATHLETIC ASSOCIATION HALL OF FAME INDUCTEES BETTY ROBINSON RUCKER Nana. Mother. Sister. Wife. Friend. Soror. These are just a few of the titles that Mrs. Betty G. Robinson Rucker has worn and continues to wear with pride and love. Born in the Freetown Community, she was blessed to have Mrs. Lula Mae and Mr. Theodore Robinson as parents. The seventh child of eight, Betty grew up in a happy home surrounded by love, church, family, and friends. While attending Washington High School, she was even one of the first female bus drivers in the system simply because a young man told her that she could not do it. Beating the odds and redefining social norms is a recurring theme that would push her to accomplish a lot in life. After high school graduation, Betty went on to accomplish a myriad of things. She moved to Atlanta, Georgia where she graduated from Morris Brown College with a bachelor’s degree in education. Immediately after graduation, she went on to complete her Master’s at Atlanta University and Specialist degree in Educational Leadership at Georgia State University. While completing these multiple advanced degrees, Betty became a wife to Mr. Bill Rucker with whom she shared over 20 years of wedded bliss until his death in 1996. Betty bore two extraordinary children, a daughter, Dr. Billie D. Edwards-Rucker, and a son, Mr. William T. Rucker who is married to engineering extraordinaire, Edlyn Rucker. Professionally, Betty attained a lot of accolades for her dedication and special touch as an administrator in the DeKalb County School System. During her teaching profession, she served as a mathematics teacher and coach. She rose through the ranks as an Instructional Lead Teacher and then eventually principal of the largest elementary school in the school system, Pine Ridge Elementary. Mrs. Rucker was honored by the school by having the newest wing named after her in recognition for her hard work to the school and community. Prior to retirement, she was named Assistant Area Superintendent and worked to support several schools and their administrative efforts. Retirement has been even more eventful with her keeping busy working within her sorority, Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Inc. having served on several committees and the Executive Board of the Decatur Alumnae Chapter. In addition to this, she also volunteers at the DeKalb County Juvenile Court where she assists solving unfortunate family situations and child placement problems. Still an active member of Wesley Chapel United Methodist Church, Betty supports the homeless ministry by providing, preparing, and serving food to women in transitional living homes that have exited abusive relationships. In her spare time, she also enjoys traveling and has been blessed to travel throughout Europe, South Africa, and China. However, her most cherished time is spent with her wonderfully dynamic grandchildren: Jacobi (10), Ryan Elizabeth (8), William, Jr. (4) and Matthew (1).
16 PIEDMONT ATHLETIC ASSOCIATION HALL OF FAME INDUCTEES DAVID LEE BEATY “Tweety Bird” David Lee Beaty (affectionately known as “Tweety Bird”) was born November 2, 1951 to Norman and Birdie Mae Beaty. He is married to the love of his life, Doris (Brown) Beaty; and together they share 5 children, 13 grandchildren, and 2 great grandchildren. He attended Washington High School for the majority of his academic tenure where he excelled as a visual artist and athlete. He received accolades as an outfielder in baseball and as a letterman football player. With his hdlp, the Washington High School football team became the 1969 lA South Carolina State Champions. He was most known for the “Tweety Special” -- a football tactic called on by his coaches to help win the game. David was also a member of the Esquire Club an organization known for having members who “dressed to impress.” With integration, David was transferred to Wade Hampton High School where he earned his diploma. In 1975, David gained employment at Michelin Tire Corporation. He served 41 years and had 37.5 years with perfect attendance. He is still hired as a consultant for the company since retiring in 2015. David attends the Poplar Spring Missionary Baptist Church, under the spiritual leadership of Dr. Vardry A. Freeman. At church, David is a former Chairman of the Trustee Ministry and Deacon Ministry and he currently, holds the office of Deacon for 17 years. He is a member of the Sanctuary Choir and also the Director of the Men of God male choir. David volunteers at the food bank weekly, visits hospital and nursing facilities ministering to the sick, and gives his time helping in the community. David also gives his time to God with a daily meditation and devotional period. David believes, “once an athlete, always an athlete. “ He continues playing sports, exercises daily, and eating healthy.
17 PIEDMONT ATHLETIC ASSOCIATION HALL OF FAME The PAA Story: What a Great Idea
In 1970, for the most part all of the five black high schools were closed as high schools in Greenville county. Progress in moving toward better education also left an empty place in the memories and hearts of those that grew up in that era and attended those schools. Years had passed and the South Carolina Athletic Hall of Fame was revitalized in 1972. Great athletes from around the state were selected and inducted into the Hall of Fame. After a few years the question was asked...why are there not more athletes and coaches from the upstate considered for induction into the Hall of Fame? People like Bill Thompson, Ernie Brock, Coach Joe Mathis and so forth. That question led to another question of why can’t we create a hall of fame that would embrace the Upstate’s athletic programs and recognize with dignity, glamour and prestige, those athletes and coaches who are so deserving? THE FIRST CLASS That question became an idea. From that idea came a purpose. Alumni from Sterling, Bryson, Beck, Lincoln and Washington High were called together. From the moment anyone hear this idea and purpose, they would say that this is something great. After a number of noon day lunch meetings at the Ramada on Church Street, late night telephone conferences with many people; another meeting was held in the latter part of 1991 at Phyllis Weatley Center. A representative from each school was present. There, at the meeting, the final question was asked and answered. What will we call this Hall of Fame that would embrace all the schools and it’s area of interest. The initial Founders said “The Piedmont Athletic Association Hall of Fame” The rest, as they say, is History. Clyde Mayes was made Executive Director and following the first class of inductees in 1992, Clyde spent the next two years organizing the PAA’s structure and building a formulation for perpetual existence: ◆ Articles of incorporation and by laws ◆ Registration with the Secretary of State office ◆ Tax status under 501(C)(3) ◆ Creation of Hall of Fame logo, symbol and stationary ◆ Scholarship program guidelines and criteria With the organization structurally in place Mr. Emanuel Sullivan became the PAA Hall of Fame second Executive Director in 1995. Emanuel added present day community sports programs to the PAA’s agenda; (1) High School Basketball Player of the Week; (2) County Basketball All Star Game; (3) Membership Appreciation Night; and (4) the including of Women Athletes for induction into the Hall of Fame. THE SECOND CLASS Over the past 27 years seven coaches were inducted into the Hall of Fame under the Clyde Mayes administration and presently 240 coaches, players and supporters have been inducted under the Emanuel Sullivan administration. Forever thankful, the PAA is mindful of the public support the people of the Upstate has given the Hall of Fame. This did turn out to be a good idea and a lot of fun.
The initial Founders put together the very first meeting of The Piedmont Athletic Association Hall of Fame at The Ramada Hotel, 1001 Church Street, Greenville, SC. The following people were present: Dr. E.D. Dixon* Mr. Sam Zimmerman, Sr.* Coach A.C. Duckett* Mr. Wilfred Walker Rev. J.D. Mathis* Mr. Charles Gardner Mr. Louie Golden Attorney Ernest Hamilton Mr. James Floyd Mr. Carol Hill
PIEDMONT ATHLETIC ASSOCIATION HALL OF FAME
18 20th25th Anniversary
PIEDMONT ATHLETIC ASSOCIATION HALL OF FAME PIEDMONT ATHLETIC ASSOCIATION HALL OF FAME SCHOLARSHIP AWARD The Scholarship Award is set up to fill a needed void between the good high school players who played a big supporting role in most cases for their gifted teammates that get the full scholarships to colleges. Secondly, this type of grant encourages high school students to participate in athletics, to excel in class, to go to college. This unique scholarship awards athletic performance and class work. The criteria is that a student must have earned two letters in one or a single letter in a combination of two or more varsity sports and did not get a full scholarship, yet did enroll in a college after high school. Funds for the scholarship award program are set aside yearly by the Board of Directors from our different fundraisers...ie, donations, membership dues, Senior Showcase Games proceeds and Banquet proceeds of the PAA’s General fund. As can be expected, the number and amount of the awards are made possible by the availability of funds. To date the PAA scholarship award program has awarded over $100,000.00 to Greenville county students. For the most part, most of the students enrolled into instate colleges.
1996 Corey Boggin Riverside High School Greenville Tec. College
1997 Terry Young Travelers Rest High School Benedict College
1998 William C. Staggs Blue Ridge High School USC-Spartanburg LaShanda Maxwell Carolina High School Denmark Tec. College Andre’ D. Brantley Wade Hampton High School Benedict College
1999 Christopher H. Harvey Blue Ridge High School North Greenville College Lakia N. Griffin Greer High School USC-Spartanburg Adrian M. Harris Hillcrest High School Newberry College Lynatte N. Jackson Travelers Rest High School Charleston Southern Uni. Maya N. Grady Greer High School Lenior-Rhyne College Latonya N. Davis Hillcrest High School Berea College Michilla L. Jackson Carolina High School Anderson College
2000 Roderick Henderson J.L. Mann High School Wingate College Charles Clark Southside High School Spartanburg Methodist College John Phelps Hillcrest High School Voorhees College Erie Williams Greer High School Wingate College Craig Johnson Greer High School Greenville Tec. College Barney Jackson Berea High School Pikeville College David Little Wade Hampton High School North Greenville College Demetrius Pepper Greenville High School Morris College Kevin Allen Carolina High School Mars Hill College Karen Hunt Southside High School Hiwassee College La’trese Davis Hillcrest High School Spartanburg Methodist College C.W. Bankhead Mauldin High School Spartanburg Methodist College Natasha Morgan Hillcrest High School Johnson C. Smith University Autumn Skelton Greenville High School Francis Marion College Mathew Chasteen Woodmont High School Pfeiffer College Veronica Thompson Hillcrest High School Johnson C. Smith University
2001 Charlena Martin Berea High School Walter State Community College Samuel Mattison Wade Hampton High School Brevard College Charity Williams Greer High School Winthrop University
PIEDMONT ATHLETIC ASSOCIATION HALL OF FAME
20 PIEDMONT ATHLETIC ASSOCIATION HALL OF FAME SCHOLARSHIP AWARD 2001 Continued Clayton Smith Woodmont High School North Greenville College Tiffany Jones Hillcrest High School University of South Carolina Jamario Twitty BereaHigh School Clemson University Brandon Smith Wade Hampton High School University of South Carolina Rodney Taylor Carolina High School South Carolina State University Jauron Martin Woodmont High School Berea College Stacey Mars Woodmont High School Erskine College Danielle Welborn Mauldin High School North Greenville College Lakita Backum Southside High School Greensboro College Melissa Griffin Greenville High School Greenville Technical College Herbert Brooks Jr. Southside High School East Tennessee State University Samuel Brown J.L. Mann High School University of South Carolina Jada Blakely Carolina High School South Carolina State University Jada Sullivan Hillcrest High School U.S.C. Spartanburg Crystal Pyles Hillcrest High School U.S.C. Spartanburg Barry Wilder Eastside High School University of South Carolina Darin Jenkins Carolina High School Johnson C. Smith University Ryan Hamilton J.L. Mann High School Wake Forrest University Erie Williams Greer High School Wingate University
2002 2004 David Gibson Southside High School Antoine Freeman Allen University Edward Strange Travelers Rest High School Chinessia Lee Lander University Maurice Brockington Riverside High School Jonathan Jones S.C. State Nakisha Bennett Greenville High School Tiffany T. Jones Limestone College Travis Irby Hillcrest High School Kelly Westermeier Clemson University Tivarius Thompson Berea High School Benjamin Baily North Greenville College Timothy Carson Riverside High School Jarvis Robinson Southside High School 2005 Martin Vernon Carolina High School Amanda McKinney Southside High School John Lawton Travelers Rest High School Arthur Sitton Greer High School Travis Hawthorne Mauldin High School Kimberly Jamieson Eastside High School 2006 Nakiy Gardner Southside High School Brandon Thomason Woodmont High School Jonathan Lee Carolina High School Michael Brockman, Jr. Woodmont High School Morgan McCain Mauldin High School Princess Putman Hillcrest High School Jarvis Pickering Southside High School Shadae Thompson Greenville High School 2003 Brittany Whitaker Blue Ridge High School 2007 Julian Swinger Carolina High School Amber Joy Ryals Southern Weslyan University $1,000.00 Koyett Miles Southside High School Zachary Grant Eastside High School 2008 Victor Duck Eastside High School T.C. McGreen Travelers Rest High School Bobby Downs J.L. Mann High School Courtney Croft Wade Hampton High School Travis Morris Berea High School Karman Gaffney Greer High School Jonathon Jackson Hillcrest High School Lakia Mansell Southside High School Margaret Williams Blue Ridge High School Alex Jamison Hillcrest High School Brandon Williams Southside High School Taylor Payne Riverside High School Lisa Jackson Riverside High School 2009 Bradford Hamilton Eastside High School Keema Blakney Southside High School
PIEDMONT ATHLETIC ASSOCIATION HALL OF FAME
21 PIEDMONT ATHLETIC ASSOCIATION HALL OF FAME
2010 Lauren Brailsford Riverside High Coker College Chauncey Mattei Greenville High Newberry College Deonte Cargild Greer High Coastal Carolina University Douglas Mack Greer High Benedict College John Clark Southside High North Greenville University Sharonda Tate Riverside High Spartanburg Methodist 2011 Jacob Ramiro Woodmont High Anderson University Kezial Brown St. Joseph High South Carolina State University Quelere Mack Greer High Coastal Carolina Anthony Dickey Berea High Printa College McKinnely Leverette Carolina High USC 2012 Cortez Starks Greenville High Garnder Webb Dammond Duckett Eastside High USC Upstate Alexis Miller Greer High Winthrop University Jaylyn Walker Southside High Winthrop University Marquiz Evans Hillcrest High Greenville Tec 2013 John C. Dogan Southside High Greenville Tec Genesis Medina Berea High Greenville Tec Delmy M. Salaza Berea High USC Andrew O’Neal Hunter Berea High Spartanburg Methodist Kayla M. Wyles Travelers Rest Furman Univeristy 2014 Derayshon L. Mustata Southside High E. Georgia State Elias M. Nicholson Travelers Rest Southern Wesleyan Marques D. Sullivan Brashier Middle College Liberty University 2015 Brishauna Wright Limestone College Julia A. Mayes Spartanburg Methodist College Falen Tatum The University of South Carolina Sonyelle Gray North Greenville College Kyah Hawkins Spartanburg Methodist College 2016 Marquis J Prince Southside High School Tri- County Tech Taylor E Branham-King Woodmont High School College of Charleston Jalen R. Thomas Southside High School Erskine College William B. Steadman Mauldin High School Clemson University Benjamin B Miles J L Mann High School Claflin University 2017 Kaelin S. Brawell Greenville High School Charleston Southern Kristopher A. White Riverside High School Spartanburg Methodist Lavassit K. Madden Hillcrest High School Limestone College Joseph L. Hoover, Jr. Carolina High School Greenville Tec Dujon D. Miller J.L. Mann High School Limestone College 2018 Urijah M. Mangum Trinity International University Jayden A. Shell University of South Carolina Keq’shun T. Kilgore Johnson C. Smith University Javaria N. Drummond Clemson University Kennedy R. Taylor Lander University
PIEDMONT ATHLETIC ASSOCIATION HALL OF FAME
22 PIEDMONT ATHLETIC ASSOCIATION HALL OF FAME GREENVILLE NEWS – SATURDAY, JUNE 27, 1992
PIEDMONT ATHLETIC ASSOCIATION HALL OF FAME
23 PIEDMONT ATHLETIC ASSOCIATION HALL OF FAME GREENVILLE NEWS – SUNDAY, APRIL 14, 1996
PIEDMONT ATHLETIC ASSOCIATION HALL OF FAME
24 PIEDMONT ATHLETIC ASSOCIATION HALL OF FAME SCHOLARSHIP AWARD
PIEDMONT ATHLETIC ASSOCIATION HALL OF FAME
25
PIEDMONT ATHLETIC ASSOCIATION HALL OF FAME
WILLIAM BILL THOMPSON JOSEPH D. MATHIS
PIEDMONT ATHLETIC ASSOCIATION HALL OF FAME
26 PIEDMONT ATHLETIC ASSOCIATION HALL OF FAME PREVIOUS INDUCTEES of The Great and Legendary BECKBECK HIGHHIGH SCHOOLSCHOOL Est. 1965 thru 1970
The former High School is now Beck Middle School The Academy of Languages
The Black and Gold Panthers School’s Motto: “Service, Simplicity, Sincerity
27 PIEDMONT ATHLETIC ASSOCIATION HALL OF FAME HALL OF FAME CLARENCE WHITTENBERG LOUISE WALKER SULLIVAN JOHNNY FLEMMING CLYDE MAYES JULIUS GAMBLE
HERMAN ROBERTS SHIRLEY TRAPP HARRIS LOUIE GOLDEN JAMES T. FLOYD JAMES PERRY HARRISON
O’LOUIS McCULLOUGH MICHAEL BOOKER JOHN ROBERT HILL O’NEAL C. SEWARD JAMES C. JONES
JOAN WILLIAMS-WALLACE WILLIE D. NEAL CHARLES E. BOOKER, JR. WILLIAM E. LINDSEY SAMUEL E. ROBERTS, SR.
TERRY O. GAMBLE LURAIN YARBROUGH, JR. HARRY WALKER JOSEPH FRANKLIN FLOYD LONNIE C. HOLMAN, SR.
BECK HIGH SCHOOL
28 PIEDMONT ATHLETIC ASSOCIATION HALL OF FAME HALL OF FAME SHARLEY HILL CAROLYN ASHMORE GRIFFIN MINNIE TRAP DAVIS HAROLD JONES JOHNIE A. DeVORE, SR.
GREGORY THOMAS KNUCKLES ERNEST HAMILTON WILLIAM YATES, JR. BOBBY CHAPMAN CARROLL AUSTIN
DEBORAH ELLISON FRASIER THEODORE R. WRIGHT CALVIN EDWARDS BARRY McCULLOUGH JOHNNY LEE DRUMMOND
RODNEY ACKER TOM DAVIS HAROLD ALEXANDER BRUNSON MORRIS MADDOX EDDIE M. DEAN
EDDIE NATHANIEL NEAL JOHNNY WILLIAMS MAXIE GAMBLE DONALD BIBBS
BECK HIGH SCHOOL
29 PIEDMONT ATHLETIC ASSOCIATION HALL OF FAME A History of Joseph E. Beck High School 1965-1969 On March 12, 1963, the Board of Trustees of the School District of Greenville County approved a site upon which was to be built a new school called the Nicholtown Junior-Senior High School. The site included twenty-six acres of land in the Green Forest Park area along McAlister Road and was to be purchased from the city of Greenville for the amount of $75,000. There were several reasons why Greenville County needed this new school. First of all, the site of the plant was located in the most thickly populated Negro section of Greenville, which at that time had no junior-senior high school in the community. Secondly, Sterling High School was operating on double and triple sessions and was badly in need of relief. Thirdly, the entire Nicholtown area was steadily increasing in population, and future need would increase the demands for a new school. Finally, a school was needed specifically to take care of students in the Nicholtown, Allen, Backer’s Chapel, Roosevelt, and Fieldcrest areas of Greenville. After a building committee was set up and the final plans for the school were approved, the contract to build the new plant was given to the Triangle Construction Company. In a meeting on November 10, 1964, the Board of Trustees of the Greenville County Schools voted to change the name of the new school from Nicholtown Junior- Senior High School to Joseph E. Beck High School in honor of the late Mr. Joseph Elbert Beck. Mr. Beck was an African-American educator who had spent thirty years in Greenville County school work including serving as principal of Sterling High School for twenty-one years. The Joseph E. Back High School was occupied for the first time in August of 1965. The new building’s construction had cost $1,425,715.65 and equipping the school brought the figure up to $1,584,846.75. The McPherson Company served as the architect in the project. The plant consisted of forty classrooms, library for 120 students, vocational shop complex, a 600 seat auditorium, science laboratories for science and home economics. The band, choral, and art departments were housed in areas that did not interfere with regular class activities. The gymnasium, which seated approximately 1500 people, was provided with an electrically operated panel that could divide the gym into two separate areas. The principal chosen to lead Beck High School was Mr. Lemmon A Stevenson. His assistant was Mr. Albert A. Richburg, and the services of Mrs. Nancy G. Griggs were secured for the position of dean in charge of guidance. Although Beck was built to serve at least a thousand students, only 700 were expected during the first year. However, almost all of that one thousand students came that first year, and in the following years there were never less than that number. The first faculty consisted of thirty-nine teachers, but due to a consistently high enrollment, the number was increased in following years. J.E. Beck High School had a total of 253 graduates: twenty-eight the first year, 105 the second, and 120 in 1968. A student council functioned as the parent club of the school. Its first action was to adopt a school motto (“Service, Simplicity, Sincerity”), colors (black and gold), and an alma mater. The council also produced a student handbook containing rules, guidance, and activities for the student body. Other products of the active council was a monitoring system, clean-up plans, an annual homecoming festivity, and charters for various clubs and organizations within the school. A school choir began at Beck in 1965, and the Beck High School Band had its beginnings in 1966 under the direction of Mr. J. A. Devore. The first band had sixty members, but the following year it doubled in size and became known as the “Marching 12.” During its brief history, the band won top honors in several contests and festivals and its was the first organization to bring a trophy into the school.
PIEDMONT ATHLETIC ASSOCIATION HALL OF FAME
30 PIEDMONT ATHLETIC ASSOCIATION HALL OF FAME
During the 1965-1966 school year Beck High School had both a football and basketball team. The next year track and baseball were added, and in the 1967-1968 school year two junior varsity teams began in basketball and football. Beck participated as a AAA conference school in 1968 with its basketball team that year becoming the Class AAA State Runner-up team. The Panther, Beck’s yearbook, was published in the spring of 1966. It continued during the following years under the leadership of various faculty members and student staffs. In 1968 the school added a completely equipped dark room and developing lab to its facilities. This was a great advantage to the yearbook staff since the audiovisuals director of Beck was engaged to take and develop all the pictures to be used for the yearbook. J. E. Beck High School was always a forward looking institution, seeking to improve the quality and the quantity of the education available for its students. Each year there were improvements made in the school’s facilities and in the courses offered. In its second year, Beck added for its students courses in band, art, auto mechanics, masonry, industrial art, trigonometry, shorthand, comparative government, advanced typing, and advanced cosmetology. In the 1967-1968 school year, Beck began offering a program in health education led by the school nurse. Further additions included courses in Spanish, business math, economics, and journalism. Later courses were added in developmental and remedial reading, driver education, office practice, speech, sociology, string music, advanced French and Spanish, business math, economics, and journalism. During this time, school accreditation was not the only thought in the minds of the faculty and administration of Beck. They were becoming aware of national and local concern over the problem of school integration. Before 1967-1968 there were no white personnel at Beck. Preferring to achieve integration on a voluntary basis, Beck’s staff began working toward another goal - integration of school personnel. In the fall of 1967, a part-time school nurse who was white was employed. In February of 1968 a white social studies teacher was added. Then, in the fall of 1968, Beck’s staff included eleven white persons, all of who were employed before district pressures were placed on schools to have them integrate their faculties. This achievement was the outstanding one in the integration of school faculties in the state of South Carolina. Beck’s history was relatively short, having seen only four years of operation, but the advances the school made in its educational program and in the programs of the district and the state in such a short time had been remarkable. If past performance and effort could have been continued within the school and coupled by full administrative and financial support from the School District of Greenville County, Joseph E. Beck High School could not help but have become one of the outstanding high schools of South Carolina.
PIEDMONT ATHLETIC ASSOCIATION HALL OF FAME
31 PIEDMONT ATHLETIC ASSOCIATION HALL OF FAME PREVIOUS INDUCTEES of The Great and Legendary WASHINGTONWASHINGTON HIGHHIGH SCHOOLSCHOOL Est. 1962 thru 1970
The former High School is now Washington Center
The Blue and Red Falcons
32 PIEDMONT ATHLETIC ASSOCIATION HALL OF FAME HALL OF FAME ALFRED LEAMON EDDIE JONES MARY ANN BROOKS ROSALIND G. BRYANT ROSA LEE FLEMING BYRD
WILMA WATTS EUGENE TATE BENNY L. SMITH HILLIARD G. GLENN LEON FERGUSON
JOHN DOUGLAS JONES DR. JESSIE M.S. REEVES PEGGY ADAMS ROBINSON JESSE E. ALLEN, JR. TERESA HILL
BOBBIE SUE KIRKSEY ESTHER FLEMING ROBINSON BOB POOLE DAN AVERY ABBIE ODELL COLLINS
EUGENE CLEVELAND LEROY LEWIS SHIRLEY “FAYE” FOWLER WILSON BRENDA MCBEE SCOTT ETHEL TAYLOR
WASHINGTON HIGH SCHOOL
33 PIEDMONT ATHLETIC ASSOCIATION HALL OF FAME HALL OF FAME FRANK LOWELL MOULTRIE SIMONE DEVLIN LEWIS STILL, JR. LINDA BRUTON MAYES THOMAS L. WILLIAMS, JR.
CLARECEE PETERS SCHELL ARTHUR BUTLER JANICE BEATY WILLIAM MCINTYRE RAYFORD NANCE
GEORGE DAVIS HORACE R. ANDERSON BIRDIE LEE BEATY DEBORAH PERRY JONES DAVID LEE MASSEY
JAMES SMITH MARSHALL ALLEN CALVIN POOLE CHRISTINE PEARSON VARDREY E. FLEMING, SR.
JANNIE PERRY JONES CLIFTON D. SCOTT CAROL JEAN AUSTIN GARDNER MARTHA BRUTON EVANS TERRY KING MCGOWENS
WASHINGTON HIGH SCHOOL
34 PIEDMONT ATHLETIC ASSOCIATION HALL OF FAME HALL OF FAME THOMAS NIX REBEKAH R. MCALLISTER JAMES MICHAEL LEWIS CHARLES COLEMAN, JR.
A History of Washington High School 1961-1970 Originally called “Happy Hearts” elementary and high school, it was later officially named Washington Elementary and High. In 1971, the building was abandoned as an elementary and high school. For many years afterwards it served as a school providing special education services for handicapped children. The building is currently unoccupied. The first to graduate was the 1961-1962 class and the last to graduate was the 1968-1969 class. In January of 1970 students from Washington would integrate into other schools in Greenville County as would many of the Teachers and Administrators. Mr. J. Wilbur Walker was the Principal and Mr. Jesse C. Beck would serve as Assistant Principal. Washington was the last of the 17 school projects to be completed in 1961. It replaced the old Brutontown School and was built to take some of the load from Sterling High School. Some students came from nearby Lincoln High School. Originally Washington had 36 teaching stations, including 14 elementary and 22 high school classrooms. It was planned for 1020 students. In addition to the traditional studies, the school provided classes for drafting/ welding, industrial arts and auto mechanics. Later, additions would be made to the school to expand the elementary and high school areas and completion of new sections to accommodate classrooms for music, cosmetology and electronics. Long after the school closed, many continued to achieve much in life built on the education and skills taught and learned at Washington. Also, the school had an Adult Education Program designed to help adults take their places adequately in a complex society. The school served the surrounding communities and the people of the communities took even greater pride in serving and supporting Washington High School. A PTA was quickly organized to promote child welfare, to raise the standards of living, to secure legislation/ and to develop intelligent co-operation between parents and teachers in meeting the children’s needs. Organizers moved quickly to adopt the School Alma Mater, to select a Mascot/ and to choose the original school colors as red and gray. Later/ the school would use a combination of red, white/ and blue. Another purpose for the building was for it to be designed in anticipation of use as a community center. Years later it was briefly used as a summer recreational facility. During the early years parents made some of the Cheerieading and Majorette uniforms and helped in other ways to outfit the Band until uniforms could be purchased. Many teachers and students have gone on to many noteworthy accomplishments after Washington officially closed. While at Washington, Eddie Jones served as coach, teacher, athletic director and department
35 PIEDMONT ATHLETIC ASSOCIATION HALL OF FAME
head. Coach Jones was inducted into the First Piedmont Association Athletic Hall Of Fame in 1992. He would become the first head football coach at Eastside High School and later would serve as both Assistant Principal and Principal. Throughout his career in the Greenville County School District he would serve as a motivator and demonstrate a degree of caring and understanding of the problems many of the students faced because of their environment and economic conditions. In 1989 he was nominated for the William B. Harley Administrator of the Year for Outstanding School Administrators. Reverend James W. Johnson taught English and Social Studies at Washington High School in addition to being Director of Student Activities, Advisor to the Student Council, and Chairman of Homecoming parade and activities. Reverend Johnson retired as a Guidance Counselor from the Greenville County School District with 30 years of service. He was given Special Recognition by the PAA in 2009 for his achievements and outstanding service. Dr. Margaree Crosby taught elementary school at Washington and her adult years have been filled with achievements. She was a full professor of reading and language arts at Clemson University. She received the first South Carolina Women of Achievement award given by the Miss South Carolina Pageant and she was the first female of any race to be appointed to the Greenville Hospital Board of Trustees. Dr. Crosby was a pioneer of the civil rights era. She was one of several students whose protest led to the integration of the Greenville County Public Library System. In its brief existence Washington would excel in several sports. Boys completed in Football, Baseball, Basketball and Track and the girls competed and participated in Basketball, Track and Cheerleading. The 1968-69 Falcons would reach the pinnacle of success by winning the State 1A Football Championship with victories over schools in North Carolina and South Carolina, Also, two members of the Mighty Falcons Football Team, Roy Kirksey and Willie Belton attended Maryland State University and later played in the National Football League. The Girls Basketball Team captured the 1965-1966 District AA Championship. From the beginning until the final days of operation Washington had Great Marching and Concert Bands under the direction of Mr. Cleodis Brown. The band participated in several Christmas and Homecoming Parades. One member of the band, James Thompson (class of 67-68), was one of three students from South Carolina invited to participate in the Macy’s Day Parade held annually in New York. If you happen to drive past Washington High School on a cool autumn Friday night near the vicinity of Poinsett HIghway, Rutherford Road, or Pleasantburg, and you look and listen closely, you might see the bright lights and hear: Oh Red and Blue you look so good to me! Fly Strong, Fly High, Fly Proud, MIGHTY FALCONS! The Marching Falcons
PIEDMONT ATHLETIC ASSOCIATION HALL OF FAME
36 PIEDMONT ATHLETIC ASSOCIATION HALL OF FAME PREVIOUS INDUCTEES of The Great and Legendary LINCOLNLINCOLN HIGHHIGH SCHOOLSCHOOL Est. 1955 thru 1970
The former High School is now Foothills Vocational Center
The Green and Gold Rattlers
37 PIEDMONT ATHLETIC ASSOCIATION HALL OF FAME HALL OF FAME DEWEY TULLIS TOMMIE ANDERSON BROOKS MARVIN DRUMMOND EDDIE L. DRUMMOND CONNIE MAYFIELD WILLIAMS
JOHN McCARROLL ALENE BENNETT BAETY BOBBY JOE JONES WALTER McCRAY EMANUEL MONROE
THOMAS M. WILLIAMS BETTY WASHINGTON GOLDEN RICHARD BYRD LULA YEARGIN WILLIAMS WILLIE B. KIRKSEY
CHARLES DAWKINS ROBBIE LORETTA SULLIVAN THOMPSON NANCY JOYCE FREEMAN WILLIAMS BROWN CLARENCE CLINE WILLIAM GASTON FLEMING
WENDELL L. THOMPSON FERRIA MALENDA LAKE GOODWIN SMILEY COX DORIS HEARD FOWLER ELIZABETH BENETT SMITH
LINCOLN HIGH SCHOOL
38 PIEDMONT ATHLETIC ASSOCIATION HALL OF FAME HALL OF FAME LAMAR RUDY PEARSON WILLIAM R. DRUMMOND MARGARETT GREGORY TURNER EUGENE G. BENSON SHIRLEY GREER FULTON
WILLIE WOOTEN CLARENCE MOODY, JR. LULA BELL MURRIEL ANDERSON PEGGY BUTLER MUNROE JIMMY DAWKINS
HUBBIE PRINCE, JR. GENE BROADUS ANNIE BELL HUNTER FRANKIE E. WHITESIDE SANDRA ANDERSON WILLIAMS
NATHANIEL HARTMAN RICHARD B. CARSON HARRY ANDERSON REGINALD D. PEARSON LEE COX
CORA DICKEY JERELEAN BENNETT EALTHON PERRY “BUTCH” SMITH GAIL WRIGHT BLUE DANIEL “BIG HAWK” HAWKINS
LINCOLN HIGH SCHOOL
39 PIEDMONT ATHLETIC ASSOCIATION HALL OF FAME HALL OF FAME GEORGE R. WILLIAMS EDNA RUTH WARD BENNETT SAMUEL C. COX CHARLES SMITH DAVID EARL PRINCE
THOMAS E. FREEMAN KATHERLEEN “KAT” THOMAS ROY “PITTY” SMITH MAMIE N. DAWKINS
A History of Lincoln High School 1954 - 1970 In the fall of September 1955, Lincoln High School opened its doors for education. It was the only school that offered grades 1-12. The land was owned by Mrs. Daisy Gray Thompson and Robert Anderson. The school served the community proudly for 15 years. At the end of 1970 the doors closed on Lincoln High for good. School color: Green and Gold (1956) Mascot: The Rattler, a product of Mr. Nathanial Hartman patterned after Florida A&M. The name Rattler is a symbol of power and beauty, both of which was found at Lincoln. LINCOLN INDUCTEES 1992 2002 2009 2014 Thomas Williams Lula Yeargin-Williams Shirley Greer Fulton Jerelean Bennett Dewey Tullis Willie B. Kirksey Margaret Gregory Turner Lee Cox Eugene G. Benson Cora Wood Dickey 1996 2003 John McCarrol Charles Dawkins 2010 2015 Robbie Loretta Sullivan Peggy Munroe Ealthon Perry “Butch” Smith 1997 Thompson Lula Murriel Anderson Gail Wright Blue Alene Patricia Bennett Baety Clarence “Sonny” Moody Daniel “Big Hawk” Hawkins Walter “Walt” McCray, Jr. 2004 Nancy Freeman Brown 2011 2016 1998 Clarence Cline Jimmy Dawkins George R. Williams Bobby Jones 2005 Hubbie Prince, Jr. Edna Ruth Ward Bennett Constance Williams William Gaston Fleming Gene Broadus Samuel C. Cox 1999 Wendall Thompson, Sr. 2012 2017 Tommie Anderson Brooks 2006 Annie Bell Hunter Charles Smith Eddie L. Drummond R-Readiness Smiley Cox Frankie E. Whiteside David Earl Prince Marvin Drummond A-Ability Ferria Malenda Lake Goodwin Sandra Anderson Williams Thomas E. Freeman 2001 T-Truthfulness 2007 2013 2018 Betty Washington Golden T-Tnacity Doris Heard Fowler Richard Carson Gail Murray Howard Richard “Gist” Bird L-Loyalty Elizabeth Bennett Smith Reginald Pearson Annie Jean Sullivan Gaffney Emanuel Munroe E-Eagerness 2008 Harry Anderson Edith Byrd Moss R-Reliability Rudy Larmar Pearson S-Service William “Casey” Drummond
40 PIEDMONT ATHLETIC ASSOCIATION HALL OF FAME PREVIOUS INDUCTEES
of The Great and Legendary BRYSONBRYSON HIGHHIGH SCHOOLSCHOOL Est. 1954 thru 1970
The former High School is now torn down and Bryson Middle sits on its campus
The Maroon and Gold Hurricanes
41 PIEDMONT ATHLETIC ASSOCIATION HALL OF FAME HALL OF FAME AL DUCKETT QUEEN BERRY BRAILEY FRED A. DEAN ERNEST M. BROCK NANCY D. PINCKNEY
EARL DANIELS PAULINE WILLIAMS YOUNG EZELL SULLIVAN JOHN B. HALLUMS HAROLD W. SULLIVAN
CLARA ETTA KILGORE WILLIE L. STEPHENS BETTY S. SULLIVAN BETTY MEEKINS TARRANT WILLIE BOYD
GRADY R. COOLEY RODGER LEWIS BURTON, SR. GEORGE LEE STODDARD YVONNE BERRY TAYLOR DAVID SHARPERSON
EMANUEL SULLIVAN WILLIAM DACUS BROWN WILLIE MARION CHANDLER REXELL JACKSON WILLIE LEE HENDERSON
BRYSON HIGH SCHOOL
42 PIEDMONT ATHLETIC ASSOCIATION HALL OF FAME HALL OF FAME REV. JAMES W. JOHNSON VIRGIL L. SULLIVAN SAMUEL M. BAILEY WILLIAM HENRY McELRATH TALMEDGE GRAY
SHIRLEY A. COOK LEE JOAN ELAINE BRYSON PEARSON JULIUS C. BENNETT BARBARA D. JOHNSON FREDDIE MICHAEL DONALD
HAROLD CHANDLER JEROME SUMMERS MENTON BERRY JAMES E. SIMMONS, JR. WILLIAM DAVIS DIAL
WILKERSON D. SULLIVAN BOBBIE J. GOLDSMITH JAMES W. MEEKINS, JR. ANNIE L. DOGAN SMITH MCCLINTON JAMES YOUNG
IDA BENNON VALENTINE RICKEY L. BOLDEN LAURA J. YOUNG GRADY BROWN, JR. ALVIN T. MCKINNEY
BRYSON HIGH SCHOOL
43 PIEDMONT ATHLETIC ASSOCIATION HALL OF FAME HALL OF FAME ROZELL W. SULLIVAN JOHN THOMAS SULLIVAN JEANNIE ELAINE WHARTON TEMPLETON WILLIE WESLEY BROWN MARY PITTS ROBINSON
JULIUS R. COBB
A History of Bryson High School 1954 - 1970 In 1868 the South Carolina General Assembly enacted legislation providing for a state superintendent of edu- cation, who would be elected biennially, and who would have general supervision of the state’s public school system. The act by the General Assembly wisely put the people of Greenville County in control by providing that a commissioner of education in each county be elected by popular vote, along with a local board of trustees for each school district. The people of Greenville County elected a county commissioner of education biennially until 1896 following the action of the general as- sembly. It is interesting to note that the city of Greenville did not establish a free school system until 18 years after the General Assembly enacted legislation providing for a state superintendent of education. Mr. A. D. Asbury, in his paper, “The Little Red Schoolhouse,” dated March, 1961 stated that the first public school system was established in Greenville on May 3, 1866, with school board compased of five members, one of who was black (S. S. Thompson). It might also be interesting to mention briefly that some two years before the action by the General Assembly, black people in Greenville County had begun efforts to establish the first private school for their children. Their efforts were led by a black man from the lower part of the state named Charles Hopkins. An ordained minister, Hopkins raised $300 from among black and white citizens of Greenville County and purchased a storehouse that was no longer needed by the army. He later took a three-year lease on land that was located on the outskirts of Greenville and build a schoolhouse there from materials taken from the abandoned army storehouse. (Asa H. Gordon, Sketches of Negro Life and History in South Carolina, Univ. of SC Press, 1971, p. 103). Correspondence between Hopkins and various officers of the Freedmen’s Bureau indicated that the school’s enrollment eventually reached 300, and the school’s staff grew to five, including two white teachers. The school started by the black man is believed to have become Allen Elementary School and was taken in the city school system. Annual reports of the state superintendent of education in 1870 Greenville County had seventy-eight free common schools with an enroll- ment of 2,060 white pupils and 597 ‘colored’ pupils. By 1878 the county reported 136 schools with an enrollment of 5,274 white and 2,697 black pupils. - the previous information came from Dr. J. Floyd Hall’s Highlights of Education in Greenville County: 1811 to 1975. Upon the recommendation of the John’s Survey that a study be made of school facilities for the Greenville County and outlying attendance areas of surrounding counties, Englehardt, Englehardt and Leggett was employed to make a study of the building needs to accommodate the
44 PIEDMONT ATHLETIC ASSOCIATION HALL OF FAME
school district. This study recommended that two high schools for Negroes be established outside the city of Greenville and that one would serve the lower part of our county. It was recommended that this school be located in about the center of the area which it would serve. The administrative staff and board of education Greenville County began to seek a location for a high school in the lower part of the county. After considering several locations, the present site was selected because of the utilities that were available on what is known as the “Golden Strip.” The school was located off State Highway 14 between Simpsonville and Fountain Inn. The school was named by the County Board of Education for the late Joseph Raleigh Bryson, who served as a United States Representative from this Congressional District from January 3, 1939 to March 10, 1953. Bryson High School opened its doors for the first time on Sept. 3, 1954. Five hundred and sixty- seven students were enrolled in grades seven through twelve. This enrollment represented a combination of five small inadequate high schools that served this area. Growth in student population made it necessary in the fall of 1958 to have only grades eight through twelve. The feeder schools were Bryson, Burgess, Laurel Creek, and Morton. In 1954 in Greenville County, there were four high schools serving the African American population. Lincoln High served the upper part of Greenville County, Sterling and Washington High served the city of Greenville, and Bryson served the lower part of the county. Beck High School was later added in 1966 to serve the Fieldcrest and Nicholtown areas. Bryson High School was built fully equipped with a gymnasium, auditorium, administrative area, vocational, agriculture and industrial education shops, three home economics laboratories, two science laboratories, music room, cafeteria, business laboratory and library with modern furniture and equipment in all these areas. The adoped mascot was the Hurricane and the school’s newpaper was officially named The Hurricane Times. The late Dr. A.M. Anderson served as principal during the entire existence of Bryson High School’s 14.5 year history. Known by many names: “Chief”, “Prof”, “Mr. or Dr. Anderson”, this man was the school’s leader. He inspired his students and his teachers to become the best that they could. During his tenure, students were encouraged to think of high school as a stepping stone to greater heights. The evidence can be found in the many directions students took in positions of leadership in their diverse fields. Not only have Brysonians become good citizens, but also teachers, preachers, musicians, medical doctors, educational doctors, lawyers, business professionals, service men and women, and areas beyond. Much of this success can be attributed to the inspiration of Dr. Anderson. When integration of schools occurred in 1970, the teachers from Bryson who were placed in other schools were most often the holders of Master’s degrees in the schools to which they were assigned. From Bryson High eight teachers became principals, five became assistant principals, one became Associate Superin- tendent for Greenville Country Schools and one became State Supervisor of Librarians. All of these person give credit to Dr. Anderson for inspiring them to a professionalism that caused their promotions. The school was staffed with qualify educators, who were dedicated to their profession. This all Black school represented an outstanding part of the Fountain Inn and surrounding Black communities. Graduating over 1,000 students, instilling in them self motivation, a will to succeed, and a challenge to improve upon the quality of life for all Black Americans. Making Bryson High School a proud chapter of the Black American History. As a direct result of the 1960s civil rights movement for a racial equality and a right to a quality education in this country, the United States Supreme Court in the winter of 1969 ruled that “Segregation of public schools in unconstitutional” and “Separate but Equal” does not work. The Supreme Court ordered that all public schools be desegregated in this country, and the school district of Greenville County, South Carolina be the first to comply with this court order, with implementation beginning by spring of 1970. In the spring of 1970 Bryson High School ceased to exist as a high school. All students enrolled except for 9th and 12th graders were trans- ferred to Hillcrest of Woodmont High, both tradition all white high schools. The seniors were allowed to graduate from Bryson, making the class of 1970 the last graduating class of Bryson High School. With emphases on high standards of education, social behavior and a belief in God as the creator was a positive image set and executed by parents and faculty, giving Bryson High Alumni Family a proud tradition of winning during school years and after graduation. The success of these efforts are given proof by the outstanding accomplishments of individual alumnus in their various professions, as they continue to achieve goals that were inspired at Bryson High. To- day Bryson remains a s a middle school, but the Joseph R. Bryson High School Hurricane spirit will remain forever carved in the page of a proud history. Materials from this article reprinted from the 1993 Bryson Alumni Association Souvenir
PIEDMONT ATHLETIC ASSOCIATION HALL OF FAME
45 PIEDMONT ATHLETIC ASSOCIATION HALL OF FAME PREVIOUS INDUCTEES
of The Great and Legendary STERLINGSTERLING HIGHHIGH SCHOOLSCHOOL Est. 1896
The former High School was destroyed by fire in 1967 and moved to the old Greenville Junior High building until 1970. The original Gym still stands and is regularly used today for all types of community activities and games
The Blue and White Tigers
46 PIEDMONT ATHLETIC ASSOCIATION HALL OF FAME HALL OF FAME LEROY GREGGS RICHARD KERNS RUBYE JONES JOE MATHIS WILFRED J. WALKER, SR.
IRVIN THOMPSON, JR. PETE JONES AGNES DAVIS YOUNG NATHANIAL BOSTON JAMES SMITH
WILLIAM H. CLEMENT ELEANOR T. BECK MARY PINSON CORNER OWEN PERKINS WILLIAM BILL THOMPSON
IDA MAE EVANS FLEMING THEO W. MITCHELL DAVID SAMUEL DONALD EUGENE HARRISON JOHN GAMBLE
JOHN MELVIN AMBERCROMBIE HERMAN BUTLER O’DELL HARRISON JOHN WILLIAMS, JR. GEORGE ALVIN McELRATH
STERLING HIGH SCHOOL
47 PIEDMONT ATHLETIC ASSOCIATION HALL OF FAME HALL OF FAME THOMAS BARKSDALE R.C. GAMBLE BOBBY RILEY WILLIAM H. SMITH ERNEST JONES
LOUIS K. BLANDER, SR. THURMAN NORRIS PHILLIP THOMPSON JOHNNY E. POOLE BENJAMIN JERRY WASHINGTON
WALTER L. WILLIAMS RUDOLPH ATKINS ROBERT LEWIS DIXON THADDEUS W. FRANKLIN RAYMOND LAKE
CHARLES ALBERT HAYWOOD THOMAS CHARLES DOWNS MARVIN PAGE, JR. ELMER BROWN WILFORD DANIELS
ELLIOTT EUGENE GOODLETT HENRY LOUIS ROSEMOND MELVIN GALLOWAY JOE MELVIN PERKINS GRACIE W. CHESTNUT
STERLING HIGH SCHOOL
48 PIEDMONT ATHLETIC ASSOCIATION HALL OF FAME HALL OF FAME GENICE McIVER THOMPSON FRANK “RABBIT” JOHNSON THELMA W. MIKE-PINSON U.J. THOMPSON LILLIE RUTH WORKMAN
RICHARD CURRY M. FREDERICK MITCHELL CHARLES P. AUSTIN, SR. DORIS BAILEY HERBERT ELLIE O. JOHNSON, JR.
SAMMIE L. HALL ELIZA BALLENTINE WALTER EDWARD HENDERSON WALLACE M. DILLARD THOMAS BALDWIN
J.C. STARKS CHARLES E. MCNEIL KEITH BARKSDALE ALAN L. MITCHELL JAMES MOORE HUFF, SR.
JOHN H. WILLIAMS, JR. MARY JOHNSON NEAL BRENDA CHANCELLOR-HENDERSON ALONZO MCGREER WILLIE L. SULLIVAN
STERLING HIGH SCHOOL
49 PIEDMONT ATHLETIC ASSOCIATION HALL OF FAME HALL OF FAME JILES RUFUS EDWARDS JR. RALPH JOHNSON LEROY HERBERT DEAN REDMOND MINNIE RUTH ANDREWS
HARRY MITCHELL THURMAN “FUZZY” MORGAN
50 PIEDMONT ATHLETIC ASSOCIATION HALL OF FAME
Page 12 The Upstate Citizen-Advocate FEBRUARY/MARCH 2008 FEBRUARY/MARCH 2008 The Upstate Citizen-Advocate Page 11 “THE MAKINGS OF A CHAMPION” SPECIAL LEGACY, HISTORY & CULTURE TRIBUTE: Words of inspirationRemembering The fromHistorical a Oldelegend...and Black High Schools a visionary SPARTANBURG—It has been dominately black south side said that words inspire great men to neighborhoods of Spartanburg, Sterlingdo even greater things. High In the case School: The triumphant story of Greenville Countyʼs firstnearby black Carver public High high School), school Mr. of a group of young African-Ameri- Henderson, who was elected Bycan Ruth men Ann from Butler Carver High School,Church needed a new John Mayor Pro-Tem by his peers on the aforementioned adage provedbrick to building; and (2) the Wesley council in 1997, continued to be be Thetrue. record of Sterling children needed a high Church to an outspoken fighter against in- High ItSchool, was the eveningGreenville of Wednes-school in Greenville so open the justice, helping to establish sev- Countyʼsday, Nov. first predominately22, 1967. Carver,they could prepare for school in eral initiatives that would help BlackSpartanburgʼs high school, predominately Black lifeʼs duties the lec- define the cityʼs direction. He ishigh that school,of struggle was about to play Burke without leav- ture room spearheaded the establishing of andHigh triumph. School from It Charleston for the ing their of the a groundbreaking program aimed coversClass AAAAa period state championship, hometown. church. at helping local minority busi- ofwhen nearly Roy C.sev- Henderson, Carverʼs Several Rev. D.M. nesses obtain service con- enty-fivelegendary/visionary years. coach, uttered churches in Minus tracts, and he also drafted a Thethese story words: of Ster- Greenville was resolution on behalf of the city, ling began“Boys, in theif we win this final waited for Rev. elected that called for the removal of the earlygame of 1890ʼs, the season tonight, we Minus to estab- president Confederate flag from atop the REV. D.M. MINUS whencan bethe happy Rev. for a whole year. Retiredlish theSpartanburg high of Citythe Councilman and legendary high school State House dome. Mr. D.M.And Minusyou seniors was can be happy footballschool. coach Finally ROYnew C. HENDERSON (center) continues to inspire Hendersonʼs influence also appointedfor the rest to the of pastorate your lives.” of an educational association school helped galvanize the career of people of all ages even today. Above, he is pictured(Photo with courtesy players, of Greenville Cultural Exchange Center, via www.bereahigh.org) John ThoseWesley words Church positive in wordswas organized.of Each mem- called James E. “Patch” Talley, a Carver coaches and supporters of theA view Spartanburg of Sterling NationalHigh School, Football as it existed in the 1960s. Greenville,inspiration the from beginning Mr. Henderson, of ber was Leagueassessed at a acertain recentGreenville clinic. High School graduate who him- a combined great work. with the hard work,amount, dedi- an attorney was Academy. self would serve on City Coun- cationRev. andMinus determination was born in ofemployed, those upon and a thenlengthy a peti-careerIt in continued community in resultedthe lecture in theees City decided of Spartanburg to sell cilthe trustees.before Differentbecoming individu- Colletonyoung men,County, would South propel Caro- thetion Fight- wasservice presented as a longtimeto the room civil rights for two ac- years,adopting after a newchurch citywide property election on SilverSpartanburgʼs Hill als made donations. first African- For ex- lina,ing Tigerson June of Carver15, 1848, to a of 19-12Secretary vic- tivist of State both asking during for andwhich after histhe ten- schoolsystem, got tooin whichand itspurchase council landmem- for Americanthe ample, mayor. Mr. James Maxwell slavetory overparents; Burke his in father the AAAAthe title privilegeure as to football establish coach largeand educator.for the room,bers and would the nowschool be outside elected the from city limits.Hisgave lengthy $5.00 public to help service meet the wasgame. Elijah However, and his what mother transpiredsuch on an institution.A fiery, outspoken fightertrustees against of thesingle-member school Mr. districts. B.M. McGee In Novem- agreedcareer to first aside, payment. it was the Rev. gridiron Minus wasthe Sarahfield that Minus. cool, Therainy old- night is butAfterinjustice, the charter he is was knownbought through the his church.ber 1991, The thesell longtime six acres activist of land,fur- whereand suggestedMr. Henderson the first names made of estonly of thirteenone children,example Mi- ofreceived Mr. workfrom asthe president Secretary of thechurch Spartanburg invested moneyther enhanced from Rev. his Minus legacy had by to paybe- downa nameother for himself. good Bornand ininfluential Wash- nusHendersonʼs was broughtinfluence uponto theof State city inbranch October of the of NAACP.1896, the He, salealong to with buildcoming their newthe firsta certainAfrican-American amount to to secureington,white Penn., men, Mr. who, Henderson he thought, Greenvilleof Spartanburg to accomplish and the two Upstatethe trusteesas the madeRev. arrange- Charlesbrick Roman, building aon Fallsbe elected Street. as thea city land councilman. until he could getwas the a four-yearcontinued letterman on page in 12 things:a whole. (1) John Wesley ments withSpartanburg the officers area of minister,Finally was inin- 1902, theRepresenting trust- help theand great cooperation citizens of the continued on page 34 Mr. Henderson would embark strumental in leading the fight that of District 3 (which includes the pre- Avery NormalJump/continuation Institute, Charleston,of Sterling High S.C.: School story would accept a place on the board. for the leading black men on the haps wasA the historic most influential beginning, man a nobledonation purpose, of $75.00. a At rich this timeculture she EveryThe man following that he isrecommended the first ing ac-rootsBoard in ofthe Trustees. Today, these are on the board. Mr. W.G. Sirrine, At- was 87lanthropists years of age.and teachers, to cepted.in a three-part Finally, series he had outlin- sevensandy of the soilsSterling, of the Middleton, Minus, Malloy, torney, also rendered priceless aid Thewhom original the building instruction was de- of besting thewhite history businessmen of the Avery in GreenvilleCarolinaand Valentine Streets. Parker sold to the institution. signedblacks and wasconstructed a vital element by Mr. in onNormal his Board Institute, of Trustees. Charleston Minuslowcountry. said the propertyThe only to black people, The black trustees were: Rev. W.R. the“William” social reconstructionSewell, one ofof thatCountyʼs these firstwhite college men taught prepa- himschool more wasand estab-gave them five to ten years to D.M. Minus, President; Rev. J.B. Greenvilleʼsthe South, leading embarked black contrac- on a practicalratory school business for free sense blacks, than helished ever by paythe Ameri-for it; this created a complete Middleton, Chairman of the Board tors. Later,program it was to moldremodeled, their schol- with had.newly Mr. freed James slaves H. and Maxwell their wascan hisMissionarytown consisting As- entirely of blacks. donated $280; Rev. N.D. Maloy additions,ars inand the a Yankee building image. especially Per- endorserdescendants. at the The bank following for twenty-fivesociation Mr. C.E.in Graham was elected ($150); Rev. W.G. Valentine ($10); designedhaps for somewhat trades was more added slowly to years.text is He excerpted assessed from himself the Charleston,$20.00 chairman South of the finance committee. Mr. A.B. Davis ($20); Mr. W.R. Sewell the plant.than other groups, native perbook year “A for History the school of Avery and alsoCarolina, had He indonated the $100 to the school. For ($10); Mr. T.J. Bryant ($15); Mr. J.F. Withwhites such also worthy elected mento play as a theNormal black Institute trustees Fromassess 1865 themselves.spring ofeight 1865. to 10In years he served as one Cureton ($5); Mr. J.W. Johnson ($10); Rev. Minusʼsrole in the associates education and of co-the to 1954Mr. Thomas (Revised F. Parkerand En- madethe thedawnof of the eman- white trustees of the school. Mr. T.B. Simpson ($10); Mr. A. Tolbert workers,local the institution black population. continued largestlarged),” donation published to inthe 1991. school.cipation, He Anothermany ex- influential trustee was Cap- and Mr. Jones W. Thomas ($20). to progress.Averyʼs Rev. educational D.M. Minus mission will erectedCo-written a splendid by Edmund two-story L. building,slaves taineagerly James F. Mackey. Recognized Several names were suggested alwayswas be toremembered evolve in response as the whichDrago wasand Eugeneworth $2,500, C. Hunt, andgrasped gave astheir one first of the most useful members for the school. But finally it was first founderto a wide and rangepresident. of social thethe school project a fine was mule sponsored at $250. Heopportunity also of theto break board of trustees, he not only voted to call it Sterling Industrial Col- Dueforces to the that schoolʼs converged growth, on securedby the Averyaid for Researchthe institution In- andthe had mysterygave of his the time and experience to this lege in honor of Mrs. E.R. Sterling of Rev. MinusCharleston was asked during to thegive near up hisstitute bookkeeper of Afro-American teach Rev. His- Minusprimer. book- Otherinstitution, former but also his influence, his Poughkeepsie, N.Y., the lady who his ministerialcentury work of the and schoolʼs devote ex-all keepingtory and and Culture how to and balance the theslaves ac- means,saw anda his best talent to help make paid for Rev. Minusʼs college edu- his timeistence. to the Forschool most at of a itssalary his- countsAvery Research of the institution Center, The eachchance week. tothe continue school a success. Every year he cation at Claflin University in of $50tory, per month.it was He the did areaʼs this until sole Additionally,College of Charleston.he sent the presidentin the to opendonated the stud- $25 to the institution. Orangeburg, South Carolina. Rev. November,college 1913, preparatory when heinstitu- re- TuskegeeSpecial Institute thanks ingoes Alabama out ies and they a hadMr. been T. O. Lawton, the youngest Minus said, “Mrs. Sterling was a great signedtion the open presidency to black students.and re- schoolto Dr. inW. Durham, Marvin NorthDulaney Carolina,forced to to memberbegin sur- of the board of trustees, woman and she deserved all of the turnedIn to thatministerial role, Avery work. Heempha- was seeand andthe staff study of thethe Averymethods Re- ofreptitiously. those was byStu- no means the least. He do- honor we could bestow upon her succeededsized trainingby President whose Careyobject greatsearch schools. Center for granting dents andnated teacher $10 to the school annually. Mr. for it will take eternity to tell the good Jones.was When to heproduce accepted a anotherliberally permissionMr. Parker to reprint also boughtthis in- severalfrom theT.P. private Hayne was one of the most in- she has accomplished for the uplift position,educated, Sterling politically was forced active, to acresformation. of land around the schoolschools and andtelligent literary members of the board. For(Photoand courtesy elevation of Avery Researchof suffering Center, College human- of Charleston)close sociallyfor a short responsible period. black divided it into lots and streets. He several years he was the secre- ity.” Mrs. Sterling was consulted and In 1915, the Enoree River Bap- societies main- A view of the Avery Normal Institute, circa 1868. leadership. namedPart I the streets for the Presidenttained bytary free of per- the Board of Trustees for finally agreed to have the school Firstcontinued named onin pagehonor 3 7of and Founder of the school, and also the City Graded Schools, and per- named for her, and she gave the first The Avery Normal Insti- sons of color in antebellum cational programs would freed from the constraints of continued on page 35 tute sank deep and branch- Charleston hoped their edu- expand now that they were slave society. Northern phi- PIEDMONT ATHLETIC ASSOCIATION HALL OF FAME
51 PIEDMONT ATHLETIC ASSOCIATION HALL OF FAME
FEBRUARY/MARCH 2008 The Upstate Citizen-Advocate Page 37 Jump/continuation of Sterling High School story tist Association had bought four older black population of acres of land in the City of Greenville Greenville County continuing with a nine-room building, an or- to identify with the site either chard and city water. They changed as former students or gradu- the name to Enoree High School and ates. Sterling High will con- the Rev. E.C. Murray became the tinue to live on. president, with the Rev. E.E. Riley of These are just some of Seneca, S.C. the first principal. It the notable former Sterling was a boarding school and had a students and teachers who very successful beginning. His suc- have significantly impacted cessor, Professor E.H. Trezevant, the Greenville community and was the principal in 1929. This beyond: Rev. Jesse L. Jack- school was operated for 14 years. son, Sr.; Dr. Thomas Elliott In 1929, when the School Dis- Kerns; Wilfred Walker; trict of Greenville County purchased Alberta Tucker Grimes; LTC the building for $2,518.39 and Paul Adams; Lillian Brock- changed the name back to Sterling Flemming; Lottie Beal Gibson; High School. Sterling was the first Xanthene Norris; Theo black public high school in the county. Mitchell; Ralph Anderson; The board elected J.C. Martin as (Photo courtesy of Greenville Cultural Exchange Center, via www.bereahigh.org) William “Billy” Thompson; principal. He remained only one Eskew Reeder, Jr. (a singer/ school term. In September, 1930, 1935-1960, under the direction of of the gymnasium, which miracu- pianist who performed under the he was succeeded by Professor Wilfred J. Walker, Sr. Singers from lously escaped major damage. stage name “Esquerita”; The Dixie Robert L. Hickson, who caught the Sterling often won scholarships to There were numerous pleas, Hummingbirds (award-winning gos- same vision as its founder. Under college because of their talent. petitions and even marches to en- pel ensemble); John Arthur Jones; his 10-year leadership term, the In 1960, Rev. H.O. Mims became courage the Board to rebuild Ster- Lloyd Walker and Dr. Charles reputation of the school was widely principal of Sterling. He was truly a ling. In addition to telephone calls Whittenberg. acclaimed, and the physical plant home-grown product, having been and personal appearances before Rev. Jackson, who graduated was expanded. The name Sterling a student, teacher, assistant princi- officials of the Greenville County from Sterling in the 1950s, began High School became quite prominent pal, and then principal at the school. School District, over one thousand working with Dr. Martin Luther King, throughout the country. During his Under his leadership Sterling con- parents and students signed peti- Jr. at the epicenter of the Civil Rights administration tinued to tions asking to keep the student body Movement. Jackson would later be- the famous Alma Mater grow, and intact. Moreover, four-fifths of the come an icon in his own right, es- Alma Mater the County student body marched on the tablishing Operation Breadbasket in Sterling High School, Sterling High was written. School County office protesting any hint that the early 1970s before relocating to School From Sterling High School, Bless her name! Board voted they would be disbanded. Chicago, where he founded Opera- 1940 to 1960, Whether in defeat or victory. to renovate Finally, the Board of Trustees tion P.U.S.H. and the Rainbow Coa- Professor J.E. We are loyal just the same; the building agreed to house students on an in- lition (now known as Rainbow/ Beck from So weʼll cheer for Sterling High in early Sep- terim basis at Greenville Junior High P.U.S.H.). Widely recognized as a Georgetown, School, tember of on Westfield Street, naming it Ster- negotiator, he also ran for the Presi- SC served as And for her weʼll fight for fame 1967. ling Junior-Senior High School. Mr. dency of the United States in 1984 principal of And weʼll sing her praises loud in Unfortu- Luke Chatman became the principal and 1988, becoming the first Afri- Sterling. Dur- every land nately, di- in 1968. He was the last principal of can-American male to run for the ing his tenure, Sterling High School, Bless her name! saster Sterling High School. nationʼs top office. in 1949 the would strike On February 17, 1970, the Dr. Kerns, a 1949 Sterling gradu- grades were extended from 11 to before this ever had a chance to School District of Greenville County ate who later taught social studies 12 years. The curriculum was occur. On Friday evening, Septem- was integrated, and at the end of and French there, became the first broadened to include many trade ber 15, 1967, the Sterling student this school year there was no longer African-American superintendent of courses. An extensive physical edu- body danced at a party sponsored a school named Sterling. The edifice the Greenville County School Dis- cation program and various by the Senior Class to raise money was torn down except for the gym, trict. Dr. Kerns, who passed away branches of science and secretarial for the “Miss Homecoming” drive. At which has since been converted this past November, served from training were added. The Torch, 10:40 p.m. the disc jockey from into a recreational facility operated 1989-1994. The district recently built Sterlingʼs high school yearbook, was WHYZ announced this warning over by the Greenville County Recreation an elementary school near I-85 and first published in 1942, and a news- the microphone, “An emergency Department. named the school for the longtime letter, named The Pinta, would be has occurred. We urge each of you A realistic portrayal of the devel- educator. added later. Sterling was admitted to leave the building quickly and opment and growth of Sterling High Mr. Walker, the schoolʼs oldest to the Southern Association of calmly as possible.” School can be revealed only in an ac- living staff member, taught masonry Schools and Colleges in 1953. Immediately, the students filed count depicting the diligent and faith- at Sterling; his tenure there was part Going to the famous “Huddle” out of the building in an orderly and ful service of many dedicated teach- of a remarkable career that saw him (Soda Shop) became the pastime calm fashion, only to find their be- ers and the achievements and suc- teach in the Greenville County after school for the students. The loved Sterling had caught fire. Tears cesses of the students who bring School District for 40 years. Mrs. football games were played at streaming down their faces, they honor and glory to their Alma Mater. Grimes, a former biology teacher at Sirrine Stadium, and all baseball watched the leaping flames engulf Although the physical plant is Sterling, became the first African- games and track meets took place their school. Firemen from the Parker gone, fond memories of our school American school counselor in at the Meadowbrook Park. District fought desperately to extin- that served generations still lingers Greenville County and went on to Sterling, known as the Tigers, guish the fire. They remained on the in the hearts and minds of scores of become the first full-time African- became classified as an “AAA” scene well into the next day and people near and far. Sterling High American counselor in the state. In school and won many champion- returned from time to time through- School lives on, in those who 1965, she established the first Head ships and awards in all areas of the out the weekend. walked its halls and benefited from Start Program in Greenville, and later educational system. The Male Glee The fire destroyed the entire the lessons taught within its walls. continued on page 38 Club and Quartet were active from physical plant, with the exception Meanwhile, with a large part of the PIEDMONT ATHLETIC ASSOCIATION HALL OF FAME
52 Page 38 The Upstate Citizen-Advocate FEBRUARY/MARCH 2008 Jump/continuation of Meadow Fork story serve the needs of young African- University in Richmond (where he numerous civic and community or- and Kappa Alpha Psi Fraternity, Inc. American males, and oversees the attended undergraduate school), ganizations, as well as proclama- In addition to preaching the Word operation of the Martin-Webb Learn- Johnson C. Smith University in Char- tions from the South Carolina House of God, Pastor Cottonʼs special ar- ing Center. Pastor Cotton also sits lotte, N.C.; Virginia State University of Representatives, the City of eas of interest include public speak- on the Cultural Diversity board at in Petersburg, Va.; Hampton Univer- Greenville and the School District of ing, writing, sports, travel and chess. PIEDMONTGreenville Technical College. ATHLETICsity in Hampton, Va.; and ASSOCIATION St. Paul Greenville County. He is a member HALL OF FAME He has also served as an ath- College in Lawrenceville, Va. of the International Chamber of Com- “The Lord hath done great Page 38letic and academic recruiter for sev- PastorThe Cotton Upstate has received more Citizen-Advocatemerce, the Ocala Jaycees, the Phi things for us; FEBRUARY/MARCH whereof we are glad.” 2008 eral colleges, including Virginia Union than 30 plaques and certificates from Delta Kappa educational fraternity —PSALMS 126:3 Jump/continuation of Meadow Fork story serve the needs of youngJump/continuation African- University in Richmond (where of Sterling he numerous civicHigh and community School or- andstory Kappa Alpha Psi Fraternity, Inc. Americanwas males, a founding and oversees member theof theattendeddents, oneundergraduate male and one school), female, atganizations, the statue site.as wellA reception as proclama- was streets, wasIn addition unveiled to in preaching a ceremony the Word operationGreenville of the Martin-Webb Urban League Learn- (currentlyJohnsondescending C. Smith down University a set of in steps,Char- heldtions at from the Westinthe South Poinsett Carolina Hotel House on heldof January God, Pastor21 at the Cottonʼs old Sterling special ar- ing Center.The Urban Pastor League Cotton of alsothe Upstate). sits lotte,the N.C.; male Virginiastudent sportingState University a sweater Southof Representatives, Main Street immediately the City fol- ofHigheas gymnasium of interest on includeMinus Street. public speak- Others embarked upon careers with an “S” emblazoned on the front. lowing the ceremony. * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * on the Cultural Diversity board at in Petersburg, Va.; Hampton Univer- Greenville and the School District of ing, writing, sports, travel and chess. in public service. Mrs. Gibson, a On a bright, sunny Sunday af- Finally, Sterling was officially Ruth Ann Butler, an alumna of GreenvilleSterling Technical graduate, College. and Mrs. Norris,sity ternoon,in Hampton, those dreamsVa.; and were St. finallyPaul designatedGreenville forCounty. inclusion He inis thea member reg- Sterling, is president and founder of He anotherhas also former served teacher, as an both ath- serveCollegerealized. in Lawrenceville, The sculpture Va.was dedi- istryof the as International a historical Chamber landmark. of The Com-the Greenville“The Lord Cultural hath Exchange done great letic andon academic Greenville recruiterCounty Council. for sev- Mrs. catedPastor on Cotton Nov. 19, has 2006 received in an moreemo- newmerce, marker, the Ocala which Jaycees, will sit on the the PhiCenter.thingsWanda for us;Stokes whereof provided we ad-are glad.” eral colleges,Brock-Flemming, including Virginiaa Sterling Union graduate,thantional 30 plaques ceremony, and whichcertificates took placefrom cornerDelta Kappaof Calhoun educational and Pendleton fraternityditional information for —PSALMS this article. 126:3 has served on Greenville City Coun- cil since 1981. Mr. Mitchell, a fomer state Senator,Jump/continuation became the first Afri- of Sterling High School story can-American to win the Democratic was a founding member of the dents, one male andPrestigious one female, Historicalat the statue site.Olde A reception Black was Highstreets, School was unveiled in a ceremony nomination for governor in 1990, Greenvillewhile Urban Mr. Anderson, League a(currently onetime Citydescending down a set of steps, held at the Westin Poinsett Hotel on held January 21 at the old Sterling The UrbanCouncilman, League currentlyof the Upstate). serves in thethe male student sporting a sweater South Main Street immediately fol- High gymnasium on Minus Street. OthersSouth embarked Carolina state upon Senate. careers with an “S” emblazoned on the front. lowing the ceremony. * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * in public service.Mr. Thompson Mrs. became Gibson, an All-Pro a On a bright, sunny Sunday af- ScrolFinally, l Sterlingof Honor was officially Ruth Ann Butler, an alumna of Sterlingdefensive graduate, back and in theMrs. National Norris, Foot-ternoon, thoseIn our dreamsAfrican-American were finally Legacydesignated & Culture for inclusion Special inEdition, the reg- titledSterling, is president and founder of ball League, playing 11 seasons for another former teacher, both serve realized. TheHonoring, sculpture Remembering was dedi- andistry Celebrating as a historical “African-American landmark. The Legacythe Greenville and Cultural Exchange the Denver Broncos and appearing on Greenville County Council. Mrs. cated on Nov. Culture” 19, 2006 and in the an Accomplishments emo- new marker, of “The which Historical will sit onOlde the BlackCenter. HighWanda Stokes provided ad- Brock-Flemming,in Super Bowl a Sterling XII. In hisgraduate, rookie sea-tional ceremony, which took place corner of Calhoun and Pendleton Schools,” The Upstate Citizen-Advocate pays special tribute ditionalin honor information for this article. has servedson (1969), on Greenville he became City the Coun- first pro- fessional player (AFL, which the of the Olde Black High School’s history and its role in changing the cil since 1981. Mr. Mitchell, a fomer Broncos were a part of at the time, lives of the people of our community. The Upstate Citizen-Advocate state Senator,or NFL) becameto lead the the league first Afri- in both can-American to win the Democratic would like to thank the former students, teachers, staff members, kickoff returns and punt returns, es- Prestigiousprincipals and all Historicalemployees, and theOlde parents, Black grandparents High andSchool nominationtablishing for governorhim as a specialin 1990, teams while Mr.threat. Anderson, Mr. Thomp a onetimeson, who City lives in descendants of The Olde Black High Schools. Councilman,Aurora, currently Colo., works serves as the in commu-the OCONEE COUNTY SPARTANBURG COUNTY (contd.) South Carolinanity relations state liaison Senate. for the Broncos. Oconee County Training School, Seneca Mary McLeod Bethune High School, Inman Blue Ridge High School, SenecaScrol l of HonorBenjamin E. Mays High School, Pacolet Mr. ThompsonThrough became the years, an All-Prothe alumni New Bethel High School, Woodruff defensiveand back supporters in the National of Sterling Foot- High PICKENS COUNTY School have worked hard to per- In our African-American Liberty Colored High Legacy School, Liberty & Culture SpecialCHEROKEE Edition, COUNTY titled ball League, playing 11 seasons for manently ensure the legacy lives on. Honoring, Remembering Pickens County Training and School,Celebrating Pickens “African-AmericanGranard High School, GaffneyLegacy and the Denver Broncos and appearing Clearview High School, Easley In 1988, the class of 1955—the first Culture” and the Accomplishments of “The HistoricalLAURENS COUNTYOlde Black High in Superknown Bowl classXII. In to his form rookie a combined sea- ANDERSON COUNTY Thomas Sanders High School, Laurens son (1969), he became the first pro- Schools,” The Anderson Upstate County Citizen-Advocate Training School (ACTS), pays special tribute in honor class reunion—donated a monu- Riverside/Pendleton ABBEVILLE COUNTY fessionalment player and placed (AFL, it on which the site the of Ster- of the Olde McDuffieBlack HighHigh School, School’s Anderson history andJ.S. its Wright role High in School, changing Abbeville the Broncosling were High a School. part of Itat lists the the time, names lives of the Reed people Street High of School, our Andersoncommunity. The Upstate Citizen-Advocate of the principals of the school. Westside High School, Anderson GREENWOOD COUNTY or NFL) to lead the league in both would like Spearman to thank High School, the Williamston former students,Brewer teachers, High School, staff Greenwood members, Another group of alumni and New Deal High School, Starr kickoff returns and punt returns, es- principals and all employees, and the parents, grandparents and tablishingsupporters, him as a identifiedspecial teams as the Geer-Gantt High School, Belton UNION COUNTY “Friends of Sterling,” pushed hard descendants of The Olde Black High Schools.Sims High School, Union threat. Mr. Thompson, who lives in GREENVILLE COUNTY to have a second monument erected Aurora, Colo., works as the commu- Beck High School, Greenville YORK COUNTY in memory of the schoolʼs 74 years OCONEE Sterling COUNTY High School, Greenville CloverSPARTANBURG High School, Clover COUNTY (contd.) nity relations liaison for the Broncos. Oconee CountyLincoln HighTraining School, School, Taylors Seneca JeffersonMary High McLeod School, Bethune York High School, Inman of existence. This one, located at Blue Ridge Washington High School, High SenecaSchool, Mauldin Benjamin E. Mays High School, Pacolet Throughthe corner the ofyears, North theMain alumni and West Bryson High School, Simpsonville LANCASTERNew Bethel COUNTY High School, Woodruff and supportersWashington of streets Sterling in downtownHigh PICKENS FountainCOUNTY Inn Colored School, Fountain Inn Barr Street High School, Liberty Colored High School, Liberty LancasterCHEROKEE COUNTY SchoolGreenville have worked (the former hard site to of per- the old SPARTANBURG COUNTY Woolworthʼs drug store), would take Pickens County Training School, Pickens Granard High School, Gaffney manently ensure the legacy lives on. Clearview Carver High High School, School, Spartanburg Easley ASHEVILLE, N.C. Lincoln High School, Spartanburg Stephens-Lee High School In 1988,shape the classin the ofform 1955—the of a sculpture first that LAURENS COUNTY Florence Chapel High School, Wellford known recognized class to form the schoolʼs a combined contribu- ANDERSON COUNTY Thomas Sanders High School, Laurens class reunion—donatedtions to the West Greenville a monu- and Anderson County Training School (ACTS), Upstate communities. Riverside/Pendleton ABBEVILLE COUNTY ment and placed it on the site of Ster- McDuffie High School, Anderson J.S. Wright High School, Abbeville Created by Camden-based ling High School. It lists the names Reed Street High School, Anderson sculptor Maria Kirby-Smith, the Westside High School, Anderson GREENWOOD COUNTY of the principalssculpture, titled of the “Raise school. High the Torch Spearman High School, Williamston Brewer High School, Greenwood Anotherof Sterling,” group consists of alumni of twoand stu- New Deal High School, Starr supporters, identified as the Geer-Gantt High School, Belton UNION COUNTY Sims High School, Union “Friends of Sterling,” pushed hard GREENVILLE COUNTY to have a second monument erected Beck High School, Greenville YORK COUNTY in memory of the schoolʼs 74 years Sterling High School, Greenville Clover High School, Clover Lincoln High School, Taylors Jefferson High School, York of existence. This one, located at Washington High School, Mauldin the corner of North Main and West Bryson High School, Simpsonville LANCASTER COUNTY Washington streets in downtown Fountain Inn Colored School, Fountain Inn Barr Street High School, Lancaster Greenville (the former site of the old SPARTANBURG COUNTY Woolworthʼs drug store), would take Carver High School, Spartanburg ASHEVILLE, N.C. shape in the form of a sculpture that Lincoln High School, Spartanburg Stephens-Lee High School recognized the schoolʼs contribu- Florence Chapel High School, Wellford tions to the West Greenville and Upstate communities. PIEDMONTCreated by Camden-based ATHLETIC ASSOCIATION HALL OF FAME sculptor Maria Kirby-Smith, the sculpture, titled “Raise High the Torch 53 of Sterling,” consists of two stu- PIEDMONT ATHLETIC ASSOCIATION HALL OF FAME 2019 Board of Directors Rosa Lee Fleming BrydΨ...... Washington High School Marvin DrummondΨ...... Lincoln High School Ernest Hamilton*Ψ...... Beck High School Alfred Leamon*Ψ...... Washington High School Ernestine Leamon...... Washington High School Sadie Nesbitt...... Bryson High School Emanuel Sullivan*‡Ψ...... Bryson High School Betty Thompson...... Sterling High School Ann Yeargin...... Bryson High School Bessie Young...... Bryson High School William FlemingΨ...... Lincoln High School Shirley Faye WilsonΨ...... Washington High School Carolyn Ashmore GriffinΨ...... Beck High School Cora L. DickeyΨ...... Lincoln High School Abbie CollinsΨ...... Washington High School Alene Bennett BaetyΨ...... Lincoln High School Eliza BallentineΨ...... Sterling High School Sandra Davis...... Sterling High School Herman RobertsΨ...... Beck High School Thurman MorganΨ...... Sterling High School Past Members of the Board of Directors Leroy Greggs*Ψ...... Sterling High School Connie Mayfield WilliamsΨ...... Lincoln High School Roger Sullivan...... Beck High School Wilma McIntyre...... Lincoln High School Brenda Moore...... Beck High School Rodney Richey...... Carolina High School Furman Gatewood*...... Washington High School Clyde Mayes*‡Ψ...... Beck High School Algie Dial...... Bryson High School Dan AveryΨ...... Washington High School Smiley Cox*Ψ...... Lincoln High School Grady Brooks...... Lincoln High School Irvin ThompsonΨ...... Sterling High School Stephen K. Fowler...... Washington High School John WilliamsΨ...... Sterling High School Thurman NorrisΨ...... Sterling High School Frankie WhitesideΨ...... Lincoln High School O’Dell Harrison*Ψ...... Sterling High School Michael Hudson...... Sterling High School Thelma Mike-PinsonΨ...... Sterling High School * Charter Board Members ‡ Executive Director Ψ Hall of Fame Inductee PIEDMONT ATHLETIC ASSOCIATION HALL OF FAME
54 PIEDMONT ATHLETIC ASSOCIATION HALL OF FAME
PIEDMONT ATHLETIC ASSOCIATION HALL OF FAME
55 PIEDMONT ATHLETIC ASSOCIATION HALL OF FAME
Congratulations to my beautiful wife Shirley Faye Fowler Wilson A graduate of Washington High School Class of 1968 Mr. Jimmy Wilson
PIEDMONT ATHLETIC ASSOCIATION HALL OF FAME
56 PIEDMONT ATHLETIC ASSOCIATION HALL OF FAME
PIEDMONT ATHLETIC ASSOCIATION HALL OF FAME
57 PIEDMONT ATHLETIC ASSOCIATION HALL OF FAME
PIEDMONT ATHLETIC ASSOCIATION HALL OF FAME
58 PIEDMONT ATHLETIC ASSOCIATION HALL OF FAME
GRIGGS LAWN CARE
864-430-3382
Free Estimates
EDDIE GRIGGS
PIEDMONT ATHLETIC ASSOCIATION HALL OF FAME
59 PIEDMONT ATHLETIC ASSOCIATION HALL OF FAME
Congratulations Herman and Sam Roberts
PIEDMONT ATHLETIC ASSOCIATION HALL OF FAME
60 PIEDMONT ATHLETIC ASSOCIATION HALL OF FAME To my darling wife, Abbie Collins
FOOTPRINTS CHRISTIAN ACADEMY 28 Bob Street Greenville, SC 29611 Office (864) 329-7348 Fax (864) 232-2181 Email: [email protected]
PIEDMONT ATHLETIC ASSOCIATION HALL OF FAME
61 PIEDMONT ATHLETIC ASSOCIATION HALL OF FAME
PIEDMONT ATHLETIC ASSOCIATION HALL OF FAME
62 PIEDMONT ATHLETIC ASSOCIATION HALL OF FAME
PIEDMONT ATHLETIC ASSOCIATION HALL OF FAME
63 PIEDMONT ATHLETIC ASSOCIATION HALL OF FAME
PATRONS Matthew Cummings Anita Wharton Cummings Agnes Wharton Copeland Harold Wharton Richard Miller, Jr. Bobby J. Miller Johnnie McFadden Eloise Miller Francis Young Frances Lomax Linda & William Ballenger Timothy Carson
PIEDMONT ATHLETIC ASSOCIATION HALL OF FAME
64 PIEDMONT ATHLETIC ASSOCIATION HALL OF FAME
PIEDMONT ATHLETIC ASSOCIATION HALL OF FAME
65 PIEDMONT ATHLETIC ASSOCIATION HALL OF FAME
Desserts Drinks
Cobbler Tea Peach, Sweet Potato, Apple, Lemonade
Cake (alternates daily) Soft Drinks Strawberry, Red Velvet, Chocolate, Pound Bottled Water OpenPrices Mon-Fri Banana Pudding From 7 a.m.-5 p.m.
Meat & 1………………………………………include $7
Meat & 2……………………………………… $8
Meat & 3……………………………………… $9
3 Veg Plates…………….…………………. $6.50 Desserts 4 Veg Plates………..………907 Pendleton.………………$ Street 7.50 About Us Platters……………………………………..Greenville, SC 29601 $6.00 Kid Meals..………………...………… $2.99-3.99 Side Items……….Phone: …………(864) 235-2539..…..……..…. $3.25 Extra Meat (Excludes Some Meats).....……$4.50 Mon-Fri 11a.m.-8p.m. Fax: (864) 233-7034 Banana Pudding/ Cobbler ……..…...…….$2.50
Cakes…………………………..….………. $2.75 Phone: (864) 644-8445 Fax: (864) 644-8446 Drinks……………..….…………………… $1.50 Rolls………………….…...…….…..………$0.50 Cornbread/Biscuits….……………….……$0.75We Cater for all Occasions 5284 Calhoun Memorial Hwy Prices Do Not Include Tax Easley, SC 29640 Visit us at www.ojs-diner.com (Located In ACE Hardware Plaza) Drinks are Included with Purchase of a Meat/Veggie/Kids Plate
Banquet Rooms FREE of Charge During PIEDMONT ATHLETICWE CATER TOASSOCIATION ALL OCCASIONS HALL OF FAME
Regular Business Hours Come In, Call, or Visit Us66 at www.ojs-diner.com PIEDMONT ATHLETIC ASSOCIATION HALL OF FAME
PIEDMONT ATHLETIC ASSOCIATION HALL OF FAME
67 PIEDMONT ATHLETIC ASSOCIATION HALL OF FAME
Noble James A. Hunt
PIEDMONT ATHLETIC ASSOCIATION HALL OF FAME
68 PIEDMONT ATHLETIC ASSOCIATION HALL OF FAME
PIEDMONT ATHLETIC ASSOCIATION HALL OF FAME
69 PIEDMONT ATHLETIC ASSOCIATION HALL OF FAME
Congratulations, Mrs. Betty Robinson Rucker on your induction! For the lives that you have touched… For the dedication you always give… For the countless times you were just there for us all… We love you and are so proud of you! Love, Debra Phillips and the Pine Ridge Elementary Family
Congratulations to Gail Howard
PIEDMONT ATHLETIC ASSOCIATION HALL OF FAME
70 PIEDMONT ATHLETIC ASSOCIATION HALL OF FAME
PIEDMONT ATHLETIC ASSOCIATION HALL OF FAME
71 PIEDMONT ATHLETIC ASSOCIATION HALL OF FAME
PIEDMONT ATHLETIC ASSOCIATION HALL OF FAME
72 PIEDMONT ATHLETIC ASSOCIATION HALL OF FAME
PIEDMONT ATHLETIC ASSOCIATION HALL OF FAME
73 PIEDMONT ATHLETIC ASSOCIATION HALL OF FAME
Doug Garrett, Vice President and the late (seated) Fred Garrett, President of WGW.
PIEDMONT ATHLETIC ASSOCIATION HALL OF FAME
74 PIEDMONT ATHLETIC ASSOCIATION HALL OF FAME
PIEDMONT ATHLETIC ASSOCIATION HALL OF FAME
75 PIEDMONT ATHLETIC ASSOCIATION HALL OF FAME
Congratulations to my mother Katherleen Wood Thomas from Angie and Edward Thomas and granddaughter Orianag Thomas
PIEDMONT ATHLETIC ASSOCIATION HALL OF FAME
76 PIEDMONT ATHLETIC ASSOCIATION HALL OF FAME
PIEDMONT ATHLETIC ASSOCIATION HALL OF FAME
77 PIEDMONT ATHLETIC ASSOCIATION HALL OF FAME In memory of Jessie Allen Marhall and Karl
In addition to his receiving multiple awards and recognition in his advocacy for our children and senior citizens, Senator Allen has been recognized for his tireless work on behalf of public education in S.C.
Senator Allen has always served and continues to serve the State of South Carolina by being a member of the Judiciary, Finance, Transportation (Dealing with Roads, Corrections and Penology and Rules Committee.
Senator Allen has also received the Unsung Hero Award for “excellence in leadership, commitment, dedication, inherent dignity, untiring labor, and unique perspective in making a difference and being a beacon light of hope and love by creating opportunities that enhance the quality of life for all.”
PIEDMONT ATHLETIC ASSOCIATION HALL OF FAME
78 PIEDMONT ATHLETIC ASSOCIATION HALL OF FAME PURPOSE
Established 1991
The Piedmont Athletic Association’s Hall of Fame was organized in mid-1991. The purpose of establishing this organization was to commemorate and to preserve the long standing history of five former high schools in Greenville, South Carolina.
The Piedmont Athletic Association’s Hall of Fame recognizes yearly, the outstanding accomplishments of former athletes and coaches as well as the faithful service of the many loyal supporters of the now defunct Beck, Bryson, Lincoln, Sterling and Washington High Schools. These individuals are recognized by induction into the Association’s Hall of Fame for their accomplishments in high school sports and their exemplary service that continues to bring honor to our community.
Scholarships Graduating athletes who have been nominated and have met the awards criteria which includes but is not limited to lettering in at least two varsity sports and full- time enrollment into college are awarded scholarships of up to one thousand dollars.
Contributions The Piedmont Athletic Association Hall of Fame was organized and incorporated under state laws of South Carolina. It is registered with the S.C. Secretary of State Office and holds a Federal Tax Exempt Non-Profit Organization status.
Membership into this organization is based primarily on gifts of financial support that enable the Piedmont Athletic Association to further commemorate and preserve the legacy of Beck, Bryson, Lincoln, Sterling and Washington High Schools. Active membership is regularly informed about the activities of the Hall of Fame Induction Activities and Banquet.
79 PIEDMONT ATHLETIC ASSOCIATION HALL OF FAME ACKNOWLEDGEMENTS Tonight’s Hall of Fame program show and live band music sounds was made possible by the donations and sponsorship of these generous persons. Thank you so much to… Senator Karl Allen WASHINGTON HIGH Law office of Ernie Hamilton CLASS OF 1968 George and Susie Burton Gary Brown SOS Carole Barbra Martin Rainbow Push Coalition Janice Beaty Turman Humbert Olivia Wright Tub Drummond Betty Robinson Rucker Jimmy and Shirley Wison Terry McIntyre Charles and Carol Garner Marshell Allen Wade and Ellenor Collins Birdie Lee Beaty Folder and Abby Collins Shirley Fowler Wilson Upstate Trophies Veronica Ferguson Johnson Alice Greggs Abbie Odell Collins Hattie Harris Jerlean Smith Noble Linda Mayes Michael Lewis Dean Redmond Clyde Mayes Angeline Penson Douglas Jones Elizabeth Hellums Brock Mae Helen FATHERHOOD Dean Redmond Tommy Rice Joe Mayfield Kelly Walker John Williams Reginald Epps Dave Strawder Allan Mitchell
80