Civil Rights Activist • Community Leader • Servant of Christ

In the 1960s, while many chose silence, Richard Sheffield chose resistance. Inspired by Frederick Douglass’ words- “If there is no struggle, there is no progress” -he became a driving force for civil rights in Dublin, Georgia. Through protests, boycotts, and lawsuits, Richard fought systemic injustice, helping secure fair hiring practices, greater Black representation, and dismantling discriminatory voting systems.

His courage came at a cost: harassment, job loss, and even a year on a Georgia chain gang. Yet in 1975, Richard’s life transformed when he accepted Christ. From then on, he combined his fight for justice with a mission of faith—pastoring, mentoring, and serving communities across Georgia and Texas. He and his wife, Monica, opened their home to the hungry and homeless, taught values, and helped families access vital resources.

A graduate of Penn Academy and Bayridge Christian College, Richard rose from Jones Village playgrounds to the pulpit and the Chairmanship of the Dublin City School Board. Once branded a “troublemaker,” he became a beacon of hope—leading boycotts, marching for equality, and inspiring generations.
Rev. Sheffield sacrificed his youth and comfort so others could stand tall. His legacy of freedom, faith, and service lives on.

Entrepreneur • Community Advocate • Trailblazer

In the early 1980s, Pauline opened Paula’s Fried Chicken on Martin Luther King Jr. Drive—a small restaurant that became a cultural cornerstone in Dublin. Known for its soul food and spirit of unity, Paula’s offered more than meals; it provided jobs, mentorship, and hope in an underserved neighborhood.

Pauline was a quiet force for change—reducing crime, empowering youth and single mothers, and modeling Black female entrepreneurship during an era of systemic barriers. Her restaurant became a safe haven, fostering dignity and inclusion across racial lines.

Grounded in faith, Pauline turned her passion for cooking into a ministry of love. She fed the hungry, mentored employees, and began the tradition of free Thanksgiving meals for the community.

Despite challenges of poverty and discrimination, she built a lasting legacy of resilience, service, and compassion. Today, Paula’s Fried Chicken continues to honor her vision—bringing people together and inspiring generations.

Pauline Lattimore Smith transitioned on March 23, 2017, but her impact lives on in every life she touched and every meal shared.

Educator • Civil Rights Advocate • Community Builder

Born in 1931 on her family’s East Dublin farm—land purchased by her great-great-grandparents, former slaves—Anne Smith grew up rooted in faith, family, and a passion for justice. At 16, she graduated from Washington Street High School and earned her Nursing Certificate from Grady Memorial Hospital, launching a career dedicated to service.

Anne broke barriers as the first African American Menswear Department Manager at F.W. Woolworth in Dublin Mall and as a University of Georgia Extension Agent, teaching rural families nutrition and life skills. In 1964, she organized Dublin’s first African American Girl Scout Troop (#231), empowering young girls to lead.

During the Civil Rights Movement, Anne chose courage over comfort. As a founding member of the reestablished Dublin-Laurens NAACP, she fought for school integration, fair hiring, and equality—often at great personal risk. Her leadership earned her roles as Secretary, Treasurer, Vice President, and President.

For over 60 years, Anne served Saint Paul AME Church, mentoring youth, directing programs, and singing in the Voices of Joy Choir. Known as “The Candy Lady,” she opened her home to children, offering food, encouragement, and love.

Honored as an Unsung Heroine, Civil Rights Warrior, and NAACP Woman of the Year, Anne’s legacy is one of faith, resilience, and service—a life devoted to lifting others and shaping a better tomorrow.

James Louis Ellington, affectionately known as “Chick,” was a cherished figure in Dublin. Born on June 16, 1926, he served as a Navy veteran in World War II and later became the esteemed head bartender at the Dublin Elks Lodge. Known for his discreet and compassionate nature, Chick was a confidant to many over his fifty-eight years at the bar. Beyond the lodge, he was a dedicated dietician at the Carl Vinson VA Medical Center and a beloved family man to his wife and eight children. Chick’s legacy continues to inspire Dublin’s community with his warmth and integrity.

Arriving in Dublin-Laurens County in 1963, Rev. Clarence Jackson, Jr. became an influential educator and the first black band director at West Laurens High School. His commitment to music and education fostered unity and talent among his students. An active member of the St. Paul AME Church and various community groups, Rev. Jackson’s leadership extended beyond the classroom, impacting every facet of local life. His life’s work has left an indelible mark on the hearts of those who had the privilege of knowing him.

Born on May 25, 1923, Ralph Daniel, Sr. overcame early educational barriers to become a beacon of knowledge and charity in Dublin. Despite having to leave school at a young age, he was determined to educate himself, a passion he passed on to his thirteen children. Known for his extraordinary efforts in building his own home and supporting the community, Ralph Daniel’s legacy is a testament to the power of determination and the importance of community service. His life story continues to inspire and motivate generations in Dublin.

Walter E. McCall, a cherished figure in the Scottsville neighborhood, dedicated his life to uplifting his community through active service and mentorship. Always available to lend a hand, Mr. McCall was renowned for his unwavering support of his church, family, friends, and the broader Dublin and Laurens County communities.

Over his many years as a devoted community servant, Mr. McCall made significant contributions through his involvement with the Dublin-Laurens Chamber of Commerce, where he served for 26 years. His commitment extended to the Dublin Parks and Recreation Board, the Solid Waste Board, and the Dublin-Laurens Development Authority, where he played a pivotal role in the expansion of key local industries and infrastructure projects, such as Southeast Paper and the local bypass project.

A Rotarian and chairman for two years, Mr. McCall was also a proud member of the Omega Psi Phi Fraternity, a volunteer for the Certified Literacy Community Program, and Habitat for Humanity. He was one of the founding Board of Directors for Communities in Schools of Laurens County. In recognition of his extensive service, he was honored with the Golden Shamrock Award by the City of Dublin in January 1995.

Willie Chester Burke, revered as a dedicated educator and principal, profoundly impacted the Dublin community. During the 1960s and 70s, Mr. Burke taught science and biology and later served as the principal of West Laurens Junior High School. His exemplary leadership earned him the title of “Principal of the Year” by the Southeastern Consortium for Minorities in Engineering. After a distinguished 24-year career in education, Mr. Burke retired and embarked on a successful second career as Dublin and Laurens County’s first African American State Farm Agent.

Mr. Burke was honored with the 1998 Outstanding Gentleman’s Award from the Dublin Laurens Black Festival Community Committee for his commitment to promoting African American heritage and community development. A devout member of St. Paul A.M.E. Church and an active member of the Omega Psi Phi Fraternity, Mr. Burke was also celebrated for his generous community service, particularly through the Optimist Club.

Herbert “Hub” Dudley, alongside his wife Mayme, was instrumental in shaping the black community in Dublin through entrepreneurship and advocacy. Starting in 1916 with Dublin’s first notary public commission, Hub built a business empire that provided essential services, employment, and empowerment opportunities to the African American community. His ventures included Dudley Motel, Cafe, and Amoco service station #2 on East Jackson Street, which became a haven for Civil Rights leaders traveling through Georgia during the 1940s to the 1960s.

Emery C. Thomas, a notable Laurens County Farm Agent, was pivotal in supporting African American farmers during challenging economic times and the Depression. His efforts led to the founding of the Georgia 4-H Club for black youth in Dublin, enhancing educational opportunities and community engagement. Before retiring, he made history as the first black member of the Dublin City Council, leaving a legacy of leadership and advocacy that is commemorated by the Emery C. Thomas Auditorium.

Warren McLendon, Jr., one of the first black deputies in the Laurens County Sheriff’s Department, dedicated over two decades to law enforcement while also co-owning the school bus transportation system for the City of Dublin. His efforts were crucial in facilitating the election of qualified African Americans to governmental positions, significantly influencing local politics and community welfare.

Dr. Henry Thomas Jones, Sr., a graduate of Meharry Medical College, began his medical practice in Dublin in 1901 and continued until his death in 1945. As a respected member of the First African Baptist Church and a civic leader, Dr. Jones’s contributions to the community extended beyond his medical practice, embodying a life of service and dedication to the betterment of Dublin.

At the tender age of 21, John Wesley Pooler, Sr. proudly served as a light mortar crewman with the esteemed Buffalo Soldiers, the only African American infantry unit to engage in combat during World War II in Europe. His duties required precision and skill, as he was tasked with operating the 60mm mortar—a crucial support weapon for the infantry.

Mr. Pooler’s service led him through the harsh terrains of Italy and the dense forests of Germany, facing challenges that tested his resilience and bravery. After his honorable discharge, he continued to serve his community by working at Carl Vinson VA Medical Center for twenty years, dedicating his life to helping fellow veterans. In recognition of his contributions, his children honored him with a commemorative brick at the Carl Vinson Medical Center, ensuring his legacy lives on.

Mrs. Ruby Dell Jefferson, affectionately known as Mother Jefferson, was a pillar of strength and nurturing in Dublin, born on October 12, 1921, to Matthew and Bell Thomas. Together with her husband, Deacon Quinton Jefferson, Sr., she raised a vibrant family of ten children, embodying the role of a devoted mother and community leader.

In 1966, her exceptional dedication to her children’s schools earned her the Parent-of-the-Year award from the District Parent Teacher Association of Laurens County. For over twenty-five years, she stayed at home, ensuring she imparted her values of education and service to her children and the children in her neighborhood.

Mother Jefferson’s commitment extended beyond her immediate family to her community. She worked with the University of Georgia Extension Service from 1965 to 1980, teaching nutrition and healthy eating practices door-to-door, which significantly improved the well-being of countless families. Her efforts were recognized in 1974 when she was named Nutrition Aide of the Year.

Observing the need for early childhood education, Mother Jefferson transitioned to working with Dublin Headstart as a Paraprofessional, where she influenced the lives of over three hundred children, striving to give them a strong educational foundation.

Throughout her life, Mother Jefferson was deeply involved in community service. She facilitated transportation for seniors to important meetings, assisted low-income families with utilities, and was pivotal in establishing Dublin’s First Food Bank. Her relentless service earned her numerous accolades, including Senior Citizen of the Year and the Ambassador of the Community Award by Governor Joe Frank Harris. Her legacy continues to inspire through the Mother Ruby Dell Jefferson Foundation, which supports local children and community projects.

Mother Jefferson’s deep faith and leadership at Williams Chapel Baptist Church, where she served as the Mother of the Church, left a lasting impact on her community, embodying a spirit of generosity and service that transcends time.

A Dublin native and graduate of Oconee High School, Rev. James Robert Travick Jr. honed his skills in construction and carpentry at Denmark Area Trade School in South Carolina before serving in the United States Army in Korea. Post-service, he channeled his expertise into founding the Travick General Construction Company, significantly shaping Dublin’s architecture by constructing homes, commercial buildings like the Circle-Y Restaurant, and numerous churches. A pioneer in local politics, Rev. Travick broke barriers as Laurens County’s first black county commissioner for District 1, a role he held for 12 years, contributing to key infrastructure projects. Today, he leads Nu-Hope Baptist Church, which he founded and expanded into a cornerstone of the Telfair Community.

An ardent community advocate, Mrs. Bonita Williams has been a pivotal force in Dublin-Laurens County, particularly through her church, First African Baptist, and various community roles. She helped found the Dublin-Laurens County Black Festival Committee, fostering a month-long celebration of African American achievements. Her efforts were instrumental in creating the Black History banners that adorn Downtown Dublin. A dedicated volunteer, she served as a Pink Lady at Fairview Park Hospital, earning the First Humanitarian Award in 2008, and tirelessly advocated for the Southside Community Association and city planning.

Dent Jackson Jr.’s extensive service to Dublin includes being the first Black policeman and fireman in East Dublin, and a longstanding councilman, spending 39 years in office and four as Mayor Pro-Tem. His entrepreneurial spirit drove him to own multiple local businesses, ranging from a wood delivery service to Jackson’s Barbecue & Catering. His dedication to public service was recognized when May 1st was declared Dent Jackson Jr. Day in East Dublin, and he received a Lifetime Service Award from the Georgia Municipal Association.

Educator, businesswoman, and community servant, Mrs. Thomasenor Pearson has led a life of impactful contributions. With degrees from Spelman College and further studies at Fort Valley State and Pennsylvania State Universities, she began her career in education before venturing into business, running Dudley Funeral Home and Dudley’s Retreat Café. Her civic engagement is extensive, serving on boards from the Georgia Governor’s Council for Arts to local health and educational committees, profoundly influencing Dublin’s cultural and social landscapes.

A standout athlete and scholar from Douglass High School and Savannah State University, Roscoe Brower dedicated his career to education and public service in Dublin. As an Industrial Arts teacher, he influenced countless students at Oconee and Dublin Junior High Schools and later served the community through the Dublin Laurens County Parks & Recreation Department. His 25-year tenure as a Laurens County Commissioner underscores his enduring commitment to public service, leaving a lasting impact on the community.

From leading Oconee High School through desegregation as its principal to serving as a Magistrate Court Judge, Charles Wesley Manning’s leadership transcended educational and judicial arenas. His role as a community leader is marked by his active involvement in numerous organizations, including Dublin Parks & Recreation and the Heart of Georgia Community Action Council, among others. Manning’s legacy as an educator and judge highlights his profound influence on civil rights and community development in Dublin.

Johnnie B. was the son of the late Aldene and Booker T. Hall. He was raised on a small farm in Dudley, Georgia. Johnnie B. was a graduate of Millville High School. He was married to Dianne Prymus Hall. They are the parents of two children, Tracy and Stacy Hall, and one grandson Evan John Hall. He began his career in law enforcement as a city of Dublin police officer. He furthered his education as a 1971 graduate of Georgia Police School. He worked as a city of Dublin police officer for several years. Through this, he experienced racism in its highest form.

Johnnie B. was a vision and a dedicated leader at a young age. After fulfilling his dream as a police officer through much prayer, he decided to continue his law enforcement career with the Georgia State Patrol. In 1976 he became the first African American Georgia State Patrol officer in Dublin, Georgia. After many years as a Georgia State Patrol officer, he was promoted to training officer. This position led to jobs at the Atlanta Olympics as part of their security team. He was also the personal security officer for the former Georgia Governor Roy Barnes.

In his spare time, he enjoyed farming and cattle rearing. He was also assigned to several boards of director jobs. He was on the board of directors at Oconee EMC, the Exchange Club, and the Boys and Girls Club of Laurens County. He was nominated as a Senior Citizen of the Year by the Black Festival Committee. He was also a nominee for Senior Citizen of the Year by the Dublin St. Patrick’s Committee.

After a prestigious career in law enforcement, he retired. After retirement, Johnnie B. Decided to embark on another career opportunity. Late in life, he became co-owner of Serenity Home with Rev. Dr. Kendrick K. Mack in Dublin, Georgia. This partnership led to a successful business located in his hometown of Dublin, Georgia.

Johnnie B. passed away on September 26, 2019.

Dr. Benjamin Daniel (“BD”) Perry spent his life in service to Laurens County as a highly regarded physician and educator. Born in 1872, educated in Zion Hill, Sandersville and the Haynes Institute in Augusta, he went on to graduate from Meharry Medical College in 1902 and began practicing medicine that same year in what was then Brewton. He married and had a son with Ella E. Cummings and eventually had an office on the top floor of the Cummings Building which still stands in downtown Dublin.

During his over 50 years as a physician, Dr. Perry taught school and helped establish several organizations in which he held positions: Landmark Masons, Knights of Pythians, Eastern Star, American Woodmen, WMBS Society, and Laurens County Benevolent Association. When the Oconee Fair Association fell on hard times, he helped repurchase the lands and served as its general manager for twenty-five years. As a faithful member of St. Paul A. M. E. Church he served as a steward, treasurer, and trustee.

After Ella’s death, he married Eliza Jane O’Neal and together they raised five children. Three became notable teachers in their churches and local school systems, one became a nurse in D. C. and his son became an anesthesiologist practicing in New York.

In the 1950’s the Laurens County Board of Education named a $300,000 school, The B. D. Perry High and Industrial School in his honor. Dr. Perry died in 1957.