People of Oxford

John William Abercrombie
May 17, 1866-July 2, 1940

An educational leader in our state, John Abercrombie served as President of Ashland College, Cleburne Institute, Bowden College, and the University of Alabama. He also led the state’s Education Department as Superintendent. He attended Oxford College, where he obtained a degree. Mr. Abercrombie also served as Secretary for the Department of Labor under the Wilson administration, among other distinguished titles. He was married to Sarah Ann Kendrick until her death for nineteen years.

Bester A. Adams, Jr.
February 16, 1926-June 17, 1998

Bester A. Adams, Jr. was Oxford’s mayor from 1970-1980, making an impact on retaining the history of local landmarks through publishing a book entitled Legacies. Mr. Adams was a World War II draft veteran; after his release date, he worked as a meat cutter before enrolling at JSU, graduating with a degree in education, and taught at Oxford High School for many years. Mr. Adams was an active member at First Baptist Church of Oxford, had a supportive family, and was known for his “Open Letter to the People of Oxford” published in the Anniston Star. Oxford High School awards a scholarship to Jacksonville State University each year in his memory.

Gilbert Perry Adams, Jr.
July 8, 1920-June 17, 1966

Gilbert Adams served as a sergeant in the U.S. Army before graduating from Jacksonville State University in 1947. He came to Oxford High School in 1948 as the head basketball and football coach. He saw success as a coach at OHS, especially on the basketball court. The gymnasium at OHS bears his name. Mr. Adams was married to the former Miss Mary Hartsfield.

Nancy Ophelia Victoria Allen Aderholt
January 7, 1854-March 2, 1958

Nancy Aderholt was the daughter of Reverend Asa Allen and Serena Cunningham. At the time of her death, she was the oldest living resident of Oxford and the oldest member of the First Baptist Church of Oxford. She lived through wars, Reconstruction, and the Great Depression. She was married for 46 years to William Samuel Aderholt.

Dr. Elbert Harrison Allen
July 15, 1825-March 23, 1883

Dr. Allen worked as one of Oxford's first physicians. Allen was a native of South Carolina and came to Oxford in the 1850s. Oxford specifically benefited from his knowledge and productivity. His home, constructed in the 1870s, still stands today on Choccolocco Street. In 1876, Dr. Allen was elected to serve and represent Calhoun County in the State Legislature.

Tull Cooper Allen
August 25, 1911-April 10, 1989

Tull Allen served as a member of Oxford’s City Council for 16 years. He is credited as saying, “Be good to young people and old people; the rest of us can take care of ourselves.” Mr Allen served as a Lieutenant Colonel in the U.S. Army Reserves after serving as a Major in the United States Army where he was stationed in the Pacific. Having graduated from the Alabama Polytechnic Institute, he commanded the CCC Camp that built roads and buildings around Cheaha State Park. Mr. Allen organized and served as President of Tull Chemical Company. He also served as Director of the Chamber of Commerce and Regional Medical Center Board, and a member of First Baptist Church of Oxford.

Gladys Marie Hill Bagley
December 1, 1927-April 10, 1998

Gladys Bagley married Alfred L. Hill on June 2, 1947. She volunteered at Oxford PARD from 1988-1998. She was a member of the Cheaha Acres Country Club and the Triple L club. She was a also a member of the First Baptist Church of Oxford.

E. R. "Russ" Baker
June 21, 1923-October 8, 1984

Having transferred to Oxford in the 1950s to the General Electric Plant, Mr. Baker was named President of the United Givers Fund in 1962. Mr. Baker served the community as Chairman of the Calhoun County Red Cross, President of the Anniston Chapter Associated Industries of Alabama, Vice-President of Oxford Little League, President of the Oxford Elementary PTA. Member of several clubs, Mr. Baker was an active member of Meadowbrook Baptist Church and enjoyed teaching a junior boys class in Sunday School. The original PARD baseball field was named after him when first built.

William Henry Beard
March 14, 1914-August 18, 1977

Mr. Beard was employed by Rudisil Foundry from 1941-1960. He was a member of the Oxford Lion's Club and Meadowbrook Baptist Church. In 1961, he was hired by the Oxford Police Department and worked to the position of Captain. He was a 16-year veteran of the police department when he was killed while transporting a suspect back to Oxford for grand larceny. He was found on a dirt road near Riverside and had died from two gunshot wounds to the abdomen. Billy King Odoms was sentenced to life without parole for the murder of Captain Beard.

Howard Jackson Bentley
March 2, 1920-October 19, 1997

Howard Bentley, having served in the U.S. Navy during World War II, was a respected businessman, husband to Miss Katheryn Ford Cooper. He served the city of Oxford as Councilman, Chairman of the Rules and Ordinances Committee, and the Fire, Police, and Street Committees. Having been an active member of the First Baptist Church of Oxford, he also served in civic affairs such as the Hartwell Lodge and the Hartford Lodge. In 1946, Bentley opened the Oxford Cleaners, which is still owned and operated by the Bentley family.

Ernestine Davis Boyles
April 18, 1922-October 23, 1999

Mrs. Boyles was married to Dan Boyles and they had three children together. She worked at the General Electric Plant in Oxford. Mrs. Boyles was promoted to the office of City Clerk in October 1970, after she had served as Assistant City Clerk. She was a lifelong resident of Oxford. She attended The First Baptist Church of Oxford.

Jesse Martin Boyles
February 13, 1906-January 15, 1972

Jesse Boyles was married to the former Miss Ethel Jewell Parnell and they had two daughters together. He worked in the foundry industry for several years as a molder. In 1959 he became a firefighter with the City of Oxford, where in 1972 he died in the line of duty while responding to a brush fire. His wife and daughters were awarded a $10,000 grant by Governor Wallace. In 2016, forty-four years after his death, his name was added to the Alabama State Firefighters Memorial.

Frank Buchanan
August 8, 1936-July 26, 2003

Mr. Frank Buchanan married the former Miss Barbara Elaine Perkins. He worked for Turner Dairy/Barber Dairy from 1959-2003, where in 1980 he was named sales supervisor. He served in the Marine Corps for four years where he was discharged as a Sergeant. He served on the Oxford City Council from 1976-1980, and was a member of the Calhoun County Chamber of Commerce, Oxford Quarterback Club, Alabama Parks and Recreation Society, and Hartwell Masonic Lodge.

Huey Eugene Burrows
February 20, 1926-December 12, 2006

Mr. Huey Burrows was married to the former Miss Doris Robertson. He was a World War II and Korean War veteran. He was a charter member of the Oxford Lions and also the District President of the Lions Club. He was also a charter member of Meadowbrook Baptist Church. He was the manager of the Old Mill Antique Mall.

Frank Butenschon, Sr.
August 17, 1887-July 11, 1974

Frank Butenschon was married to Miss Ruth S. Dodd. He was one of the original organizers of the Chamber of Commerce in Oxford, and served as Secretary/Treasurer of the Oxford Community Chest for more than 20 years. He was a member of Oxford United Methodist Church. He served as a City Clerk under Mayor D.C. Cooper, and he was a member of the Lion's Club. Mr. Butenschon was the owner and operator of Butenschon Drug Company, which he started in 1931.

Eliza Harrison Campbell
August 19, 1831-November 22, 1912

A former slave of William Harrison, Eliza Harrison Campbell worked most of her adult life as a cook. She married James Campbell and had five children. Mrs. Campbell is buried in Oxford Memorial Gardens near William Harrison.

Billy Bernard Cassidy
September 26, 1928-April 7, 1992

Billy Cassidy was a veteran of the Korean War. He played football while attending and graduating from Jacksonville State University. Mr. Cassidy went on to teach and be Assistant Coach in Wellborn and Lincoln schools. He was a former principal at Wellborn, Ohatchee, and Oxford High Schools. He retired as the first Superintendent of Oxford City Schools. He was Oxford's Man of the Year in 1968.

Thomas John Caver
August 20, 1802-October 16, 1872

Thomas Caver, married to the former Eliza Davis Caver, had six children, with only one surviving into adulthood. Mr. Caver was a plantation owner and prior to the Civil War, planted crops. Mr. Caver was an original landowner of what is now known as the Davis Farm in Oxford/Boiling Springs.

Zedekiah Henry "Z.H." Clardy
1832-April 13, 1925

Z.H. Clardy was a contractor and builder. He built the Clardy Mansion on College Street. He also built the "Blind and Deaf School." He was known for building the Constantine building on Noble Street. Mr. Clardy was the largest brick contractor in Calhoun County and was known as a man who had done more work of that kind in the County. He was a member of the Methodist Church and a Mason.

Davis Clay Cooper, Sr.
March 1866-November 15, 1943

Davis Cooper was a graduate of Oxford College, a Mayor of Oxford for nineteen years, and he served on the City Councils of Anniston and Oxanna. He served as a President of the Calhoun County Baptist Association for fifteen years, Moderator of the Calhoun County Baptist Association for 44 years, President of the Alabama State Convention, member of Alabama Baptist State Board of Missions and Executive Committee for 36 years. Also, he was a Trustee of Howard College, Vice President of State Anti-Saloon Legacy, Grand Chancellor of Alabama Knight of Pythias Grand Lodge and Supreme Representative. Mr. Cooper was described as a gentle and kind man.

Reverend Oscar Bert Cotton
November 1, 1926-January 11, 2002

Oscar Cotton served in the Navy during World War II on the U.S. Nassau as a barber. He worked at Kilby Steel and Anniston Army Depot. Cotton was called into ministry and served churches in Calhoun and Randolph Counties for over 50 years. He enjoyed buying and selling antiques. He started to work for Landers Furniture in the late 1960s. Upon Mr. Landers' retirement, Cotton bought the store and it was renamed cotton Furniture. Cotton was one of the original founders and board members of the Independent Bank of Oxford, currently BB&T, and remained in that position until his death. He was a member of the Oxford Lions Club and Cheaha Vintage Car Club where he served as Chaplain.

Ellis Watson Craven
December 12, 1927-December 9, 2013

Ellis Craven was a productive member of the community. He owned and operated both the Razor's Edge Barber Shop and The Tackle Box. He served on the Oxford City Council and the Oxford Civil Service Board. Mr. Craven volunteered in the community in Baseball for Youth and The Lion's Club. A longtime member of Dodson Memorial Presbyterian Church, Mr. Craven was an ordained Presbyterian Elder.

Ruth Davis
October 4, 1913-June 26, 2001

What started with a six-inch 10-cent tree and an 89-cent plastic Santa Clause turned in to a house full of lights and decorations for all to see. Having only a second-grade education due to caring for her sick mother, she was married at the age of 12 and had her first child at 14. When that marriage was failing, she was swept off her feet by Harry Glenn Davis. At his death, she was surprised to find out that he was living a double life. Mrs. Davis was able to live out her days with her faith, church family, and friends decorating her house at Christmas and being known as the lady with all of the Christmas lights, to be seen out to the interstate.

LaFayette Hoyt Smith DeFriese
August 1, 1852-June 17, 1928

After losing both parents by the time he was nine and caring for two younger siblings, LaFayette DeFriese applied for and was granted a full license to teach anywhere in Alabama at 12. At 14, he taught school in Clay County, and then he moved to Oxford to support his sisters. During that time, he attended "an exceedingly good college in Oxford." He later attended the University of California and graduated Harvard with a PhD. He practiced law in New York and in the Supreme Court before retained as a private counselor to Queen Victoria of England.

Professor John Lafayette Dodson
April 20, 1837-Sept 27, 1911

At an early age, John Dodson was stricken with a severe malady which left him crippled for the remainder of his life. Having been denied being able to bear arms in the War Between the States, due to his sickness, Dodson collected ammunition and supplies for the soldiers. Dodson married the former Sarah Frances Gladden; during this time his teaching profession began where he personally encouraged the community to attend higher education. From this he joined with W.J. Borden and formed the Oxford Male and Female Collegiate Institute, later placed in the hands of Dodson. After the decline of the college, Dodson took a position with the State Department of Education. Finishing his work at the state, he returned to Oxford where he had been a prominent member of the local Presbyterian Church, whose name was changed into Dodson Memorial Presbyterian Church in 1919. Upon his return, almost totally blind, he quietly passed away and was buried in the Oxford Memorial Cemetery.

Ruth Elder
September 8, 1902-October 9, 1977

Mrs. Elder was a graduate of Calhoun County High School. Mrs. Elder is known as “Miss America of Aviation”, the first woman to attempt a flight across the Atlantic from the U.S. to Europe, just five months after Charles Lindbergh crossed the Atlantic. A parade was held for her in Anniston, even allowing the schools to close to celebrate her victory. Mrs. Elder became a silent film actress and married seven times, twice to Ralph King. At her death she was cremated and her ashes were spread across the Golden Gate Bridge.

Vernon "Lynn" Elliott
May 18, 1953-June 18, 2005

Mr. Lynn Elliott retired as Sergeant with the Anniston Fire Department after 18 years of service. He also was a firefighter with the Oxford Volunteer Fire Department where he serves as Captain for 32 years. Elliott volunteered with the Oxford Rescue Squad as well. He was a member of the First United Methodist church of Oxford. Fire Station No. 6 and the training center are both named after Lynn Elliott. He was recognized by the Governor for a Line of Duty Death and is memorialized on the Fallen Firefighters Memorial in Tuscaloosa.

Larry Wayne Gardner
October 9, 1950-February 3, 2014

Larry Gardner was a graduate of Oxford High School class of 1969. Upon graduation, he started working for the City of Oxford in the Parks and Recreation Department, and he later went on to work at the Oxford Street Department. Larry loved his job, his community, and serving the people of Oxford. Larry was married to to Ginger Gardner, and they had two sons. Larry was an active and faithful member of Hillcrest Baptist Church, he loved to ride horses, and he was an avid Alabama football fan.

Edna Louise Shears Fant
October 9, 1926-May 4, 2014

Mrs. Fant was married at a young age to Marcus Fant. Mrs. Fant was laid to rest at Oxford Memorial Gardens.

Delbert Willis Goggans
January 22, 1928-August 22, 2014

Mr. Goggans was married to Martha Faulkner. He was a deacon and active member of the First Baptist Church of Oxford and later the First Baptist Church at McClellan. He was a WWII veteran. Mr. Goggans served in Japan under General Douglas McArthur.

Harry Cunningham Gunnels
October 1, 1868-September 18, 1911

Gunnels graduated from Oxford College in 1886, where he went on to teach Natural Science and History at the college from 1887-1890. In 1891 he graduated from The University of Alabama, where he studied law. He served as the principal of Pine Street Elementary, which was the first public school in Anniston. He was the Superintendent of Anniston City Schools from 1897-1898. IN 1899, he was Chief Clerk for the Alabama Department of Education. From 1900-1901, he was the State Representative (General Assembly). During his time in the house, he wrote a bill providing five months of free education. He was Chairman of the Alabama Education committee. He was Director for Alabama of the Southern Educational Association. Also, he served as the State Superintendent of Education from 1902-1903 and 1907-1911. Gunnels was also in the Alabama National Guard where he was Lieutenant and Captain of the 2nd Infantry Regiment from 1896-1906. He went on to rank as Major.

Thaddeus McDuffie Gwin
January 21, 1858-April 8, 1944

Mr. Gwin, married to the former Eliza A. Urquhart, was a prominent businessman owning the Thad M. Gwin and Co. Dry Goods Store, currently Hubbard’s Off Main. The Dry Goods store was in operation for 67 years. Mr. Gwin was a member of First Baptist Church of Oxford and was laid to rest at the Oxford Memorial Gardens.

Miss Ella Hall
about 1889-August 7, 1969

Miss Ella Hall, a lifetime spinster, served the City of Oxford as City Clerk. Among her Clerk duties at City Hall, she was the water bill collector, court docket keeper, and Treasurer. Miss Hall also was a member of Dodson Memorial Presbyterian Church, where she also served as Treasurer. She was known for her gentle spirit and the "Voice" of Oxford for her time.

Dan Carr Henderson
September 20, 1924-August 19, 2014

Mr. Henderson was a WWII veteran who served in the Asian Pacific/Theater. Mr. Henderson attended Jacksonville State University and the University of Florida. He taught at Saks, White Plains and Coldwater Schools. Mr. Henderson was principal of Coldwater when it was first built. He was the Assistant Superintendent and later became Superintendent of Calhoun County Schools. He also was a part of the State Department of Education. He was a longtime member of Lakeview Baptist Church and served as a Deacon.

Robert E. Hendrick, Jr.
September 30, 1935-October 28, 1978

Robert E. Hendrick, Jr. was a second-generation firefighter; his father Robert E. Hendrick, Sr. was a firefighter in the city of Anniston for many years. Robert worked at the Anniston Army Depot and also did electrical work for many in the Oxford Community. Hendrick served the Oxford Volunteer Fire Department for approximately ten years prior to his death. Robert was killed in an auto accident while responding to a reported fire in the Coldwater Community which ended up being a false alarm.

Robert was recognized by the State of Alabama and his name is on the Fallen Firefighters Memorial in Tuscaloosa Alabama. Fire Station #2 on Friendship Road is name in his memory.

Dr. Robert Andrew Hingson
April 13, 1913-October 9, 1996

Dr. Hingson’s maternal grandfather served as Mayor of Oxford in the early 1900’s. Dr. Hingson is known for his break-through in anesthesiology by introducing caudal and epidural anesthesia into the practice of obstetrical anesthesia. Dr. Hingson is known for his invention of continuous caudal—posterior—anesthesia and perfection of lumbar epidural anesthesia to prevent pain in childbirth earned him worldwide recognition. He also was the lead physician that led a team immunizing a million people against smallpox in Liberia. Having been a pioneer in medicine Dr. Hingson led a life helping others by bringing medical help and aid all over the world.

Lieutenant Dexter Lewis Holcomb
August 24, 1960-February 16, 2007

Dexter Holcomb was a 20 year veteran of the Oxford Police Department, where he served as Department Training Officer, Firearms Instructor, and Shift Commander. He also drove a school bus for 10 years. He was a member of the Jacksonville Lodge of the Fraternal Order of Police, the Piedmont Athletic Boosters, the Odd Fellows Lodge, and the Piedmont Volunteer Department. Lieutenant Holcomb was struck on-duty by a school bus from Oxford High School at College and Snow Streets.

Thomas Blake Howle
August 20, 1893-June 3, 1973

Mr. Howle graduated from Oxford High School and went on to attend and play football for Auburn University. He was a WWI veteran where he was a lieutenant buying livestock for the Army. He partnered T. A. Howle and Son Mercantile with his father. Mr. Howle was elected Mayor of Oxford in 1932 and served till 1936. He was again elected from 1940-1944. In 1945 he opened his own veterinary practice. In 1947 he was elected as a State Senator and served until 1951. He served as an Inspector for Anniston Milk and Meat Control Board. He served two terms on the State Public Welfare Board. He was a member of the Alabama Farm Bureau Association. He was former Commander for the Oxford American Legion and past master of Hartwell Lodge AF&M 101. He was a member of First Baptist Church of Oxford.

Cora Ingram Johnson
December 23, 1897-April 2, 1963

Cora Ingram Johnson was a hermit in the mountains of Cleburne County. She would, along with her husband Buck who lived in a separate one room shack, traveled to Oxford once a month for a relief check and supplies. Cora became a hermit when her children were taken away and was considered a mountaineer. Living off the land she could cure anything with turpentine and kerosene. A very honest, good person who “went to sleep every night prayin.”

Maud McLure Kelly
June 26, 1887-April 2, 1973

Alabama’s first female lawyer, Maud McLure Kelly was politically conscious on the state and national level. She worked to ensure women’s suffrage. Kelly also advocated for issues helping the poor, underserved, and veterans. Kelly's paternal grandfather, Samuel Camp Kelly, served as Oxford's Mayor during Reconstruction. Near the end of her life, she authored legislation for the benefit of the Alabama Department of Archives and History.

John William Land
May 17, 1916-December 17, 2002

John William Land was a civic leader who made a difference in his community in many ways. He served his country in the Navy during WWII and Korea. Back in Oxford, Mr. Land was a charter member of the Golden K Kiwanis, a Boy Scout Troop 10 leader (earning the Silver Beaver Award), a contributor and stock holder for Cheaha Bank, and a volunteer for Meals-on-Wheels. Mr. Land served as an Oxford City Council Member from 1980-1984. He was married to Martha Belle Cash Land for 61 years.

Dr. James Harold Lett
July 27, 1924-January 20, 1988

Lett attended Oxford High School. He was drafted during World War II where he served with the Infantry's combat engineer's division. He also took part in the D-Day Invasion at Normandy. Mr. Lett went on to attend Palmer College of Chiropractic in Iowa. He started his first practice in Talladega. Dr. Lett became involved with the OHS athletic program and served for over 30 years as the team doctor. Today, the OHS Field House is named after him.

Richard Hall Lloyd
between 1839-1840 - April 23, 1865

Richard Hall Lloyd, also known as Robert Loyd or R. H. Lloyd, was born between 1839 and 1840 in Noxubee County, Mississippi. Lloyd enlisted in the 36th Mississippi Infantry but filed for disability shortly after due to diabetes. He married Appie Amanda Matheny in 1861 and moved to Oxford and worked as a merchant and commissariat to Benjamin Clark. On April 23, 1865, Union Troops raiding through downtown Oxford killed him. He was laid to rest in the Oxford Memorial Gardens in an unmarked grave.

Earl Reid Martin
January 29, 1924-August 20, 1982

Martin was a professional baseball player. He was the first Director at the Oxford Parks and Recreation Department. He worked at General Motors. Martin also served as Mayor of Oxford from 1980-1982. He was married to Norma Martin. The baseball fields at Oxford Lake are named the Earl R. Martin Complex.

Norma Smith Martin
August 10, 1931-June 17, 2016

Mrs. Martin, a graduate of the University of Alabama and wife of Mayor Earl R. Martin, began her career in Oxford as an educator at Friendship School. She also had a lengthy career teaching English at Oxford High School. Besides from being a wife, mother, and teacher, she was heavily involved in civic and church affairs as well as volunteering countless hours to the community. Mrs. Martin served on the City Council from 1984-2004 and was the first female elected to the position. She was active in chartering the Oxford Arts Council.

Barnett McCulley
around 1791 - May 7, 1880

Barnett McCulley was married to Mary Wade and had three children. After her death, he married Sarah Elizabeth Moore, and they had two children. First settling in Alexandria, he moved his family east of Oxford, the place became known as McCulley Spring, later to become Oxford Lake. Mr. McCulley was interested in projects to improve the county and helped to finance the first railroad built through this section. He is buried at the Snow Family Cemetery near Lakeview Baptist Church. His grave is marked by a large stone from his property.

William Edward Mellon Jr.
February 7, 1850-October 20, 1931

Mr. Mellon married Miss Sara Ella Foster and had four sons and three daughters. In 1896, he purchased a farm consisting of 640 acres in Calhoun County. Out of the 40 acres more than 300 apple trees were planted and Mellon Apple Orchard Farm was established. From the orchard, train loads of apples were shipped all over Alabama and were part of the state fairs across the state. The Mellon Apple Orchard Farm is now known as Cider Ridge Golf Course. Mellon Mill and Mellon covered bridge was/is located on the farm. In 1911, Mellon purchased a large Victorian home on Choccolocco Street and remained in the family for 75 years.

Judge Hugh Davis Merrill, Sr.
December 20, 1877-January 5, 1954

An 1896 graduate of Oxford College and University of Alabama Law School, Judge Merrill practiced law in Edwardsville and Anniston. He served as a Circuit Court Judge in Calhoun County, and was the youngest man ever elected to political office in Alabama. From 1911-1920 he served as judge of the 7th Circuit Court. From 1931-1935 he served as Lt. Governor to the State of Alabama. He was also a Delegate to the Democratic National Convention in 1936. He was a member of the Advisory committee of the Alabama Railroad Association, Director of Com. National Bank, the Masons, Shriners, and Kiwanis Club.

Frank Nelson
August 1, 1929-January 28, 2003

A graduate of Oxford High School, Frank Nelson played football at Jacksonville State. After graduation, he went on to become a computer programmer in Huntsville. Upon returning to his hometown, he owned The Smoke House and Anniston Beach Country Club. Mr. Nelson served on the City Council from 1960-1963, the Oxford School Board from 1971-1981, and ran for Mayor in 1972. He married Betty Butterworth in 1952 and had two daughters. He was a member of Lakeview Baptist Church. Towards the end of his life, he worked at the Oxford Civic Center.

Governor John Louis Pennington
May 1, 1829-July 11, 1900

John L. Pennington, Governor of the Dakota Territory, in his early years was employed as an apprentice at The Raleigh Star. He later founded The Columbian and The Daily Progress before the Civil War. In 1866 he was elected as a Republican in the Alabama Legislature, serving until 1873. In 1874 Pennington was appointed by Pres Ulysses Grant to serve as the first Governor of the Dakota Territory. President Rutherford Hayes appointed Pennington as an internal revenue collector. In 1891, he returned to Alabama and resided at McPherson Street with his daughter and son-in-law in Oxford. He was buried in the Oxford Memorial Gardens Cemetery.

George Howard Pirkle
December 3, 1919-January 5, 2005

Mr. Pirkle, married to Vera Shears for 57 years and the father of five children, served in the U.S. Army during WWII in the Pacific Theatre. In His youth, Mr. Pirkle was known for his boxing and sharp shooting skills. Having worked and retired from the U.S. Pipe and Foundry Company, Mr. Pirkle was laid to rest in the Oxford Memorial Gardens.

Chester O'Neal Reaves
September 30, 1922-March 4, 2002

Chester Reaves was married to the former Miss Geraldine Brown had three sons and worked as a businessman in the Oxford area. As a teen, he worked for T.R. King which gave him a foundation to work his way to owner of Oxford Tire and Supply Co. In his career he also sold real estate in the Oxford and Anniston area and was active in youth sports.

Dixie Finley Roberts
April 13, 1929-December 1, 2012

Mrs. Roberts was originally from Clay County and was a citizen of Oxford since 1953. She was a graduate of Jacksonville State Teachers College. Mrs. Roberts taught at Oxford City Schools until 1987. She volunteered for homebound ministry and Meals on Wheels and served as a member of Cheaha Acres Women’s Club and Interfaith Ministries. She was also a member of the Oxford Senior Citizens Center Board. She was an active member of Oxford First Baptist Church; she also volunteered with the Oxford Civic Center.

Thomas Gaines Roberts
August 18, 1870-January 26, 1941

Captain Thomas G. Roberts graduated from Oxford College in 1890 with his first degree. He went on to possess five college degrees. His last degree he earned in 1925 when he graduated from Temple University Law School. Roberts was also certified as an American Lawyer in France. He joined the Navy and was promoted to Captain and was transferred for duty as construction officer of the Boston Navy Yard. Captain Roberts retired from the Navy in 1917 and for many years supervised and directed the building of 136 naval warships, at the time was the largest ever credited to one man in the history of the country.

Captain Elevus “E.G.” Genadus Robertson
1838-September 13, 1905

Genadus Robertson was a successful business owner in Oxford, where he made his home for several years. Mr. Robertson was in the 51st Alabama Infantry, Co. D Dudley Snow Rangers, ranked as Captain. Mr. Robertson was also captured in Fort Delaware. Mr. Robertson married the former Mary Ann Stamps in April of 1861 and had seven children. After the death of his first wife he married Rounceville Stroud “Rouncie”. Mr. Robertson was laid to rest in Mississippi.

William Washington Robertson
April 13, 1884-January 29, 1964

In his youth, William Robertson worked as a farm laborer. Later, he worked as a salesman in the grocery business. Afterwards, he operated a retail store for 21 years in Oxford. He was affectionately called “Uncle Willie” by his friends and was a member of First United Methodist Church of Oxford.

Marshall Shaddix
April 4, 1928-December 17, 2018

Marshall Shaddix began his work force years, after graduating from Oxford High School, salesman for Edwards Cigar and Tobacco, then moved to the National Biscuit Co, now Nabisco. After 35 years with Nabisco, he retired to serving his community as a councilman for 22 years. Mr. Shaddix is well known as the “voice” of the Oxford Yellow Jackets which he devoted himself to for 48 years.

Claude Elmer Shortnacy
June 29, 1914-March 29, 1980

Claude Shortnacy worked as a molder/rammer at Rudisill Foundry. Next, he was a textile worker at the Anniston Cordage Company. He served on the Oxford City Council from 1964-1968 and 1972-1980. He was also the little league coach/manager of the Economy Drug Store Cubs. Mr. Shortnacy also volunteered as scoutmaster for the Oxford Boy Scout Troop 10. He and his wife, Maude, ran Buck’s, a local eating place popular with teenagers. The Softball Complex at Oxford Lake is named after him. After Mr. Shortnacy’s death, his wife completed his term on the Oxford City Council.

Elisha Sylvannus Simmons
bet. 1818-1819 - bet. 1860-1880

Elisha Simmons owned a large portion of present downtown Oxford. A ditch separated the Simmons property from the Snow property that ran throughout the middle of town. Simmons deeded a piece of property to the City of Oxford for a public park and wagon yard that is still used today. Mr. Simmons also gave the property on which First Baptist Church of Oxford stands.

James R. Simpson
December 11, 1926-July 16, 1966

After serving in the U.S. Navy, Jimmy Simpson became the band director at Oxford High School and was a well-respected teacher. He played the saxophone.

Sidney Harmon Simpson
September 24, 1936-April 25, 2011

Sidney Simpson was a graduate of Calhoun County High School in 1954. Mr. Simpson served as a Boy Scout Leader and served on the Parks and Recreation Board for the city of Oxford. He served in the Air Force and FBI before being employed at the Army Depot in the consolidated Property Division in the 1960s, where he retired as a firefighter. Mr. Simpson coached youth sports and served on the Baseball for Youth Board for Oxford. He rebuilt the Par 3 golf course, and he and his wife ran the course for many years. Mr. Simpson is laid to rest at the Oxford Memorial Gardens.

Captain John Floyd Smith
December 15, 1839-March 20, 1931

Captain John F. Smith was an agriculturalist and an extensive land owner. He enlisted in 1861 in the Tenth Alabama, CSA. He participated in the grandest dramas ever enacted in America. As a member of General Lee’s immortal army he participated in many great battles including Bullrun, First and Second Cold Harbor, Fredricksburg and Chancellorsville. As one of Wilcox’s brigades he supported Pickett in his immortal charge at Gettysburg. He had taken ill and was given permissions to fall out of ranks and catch up when he was better. During that time General Lee rode by and stopped and asked to what command did he belong to which Captain Smith replied “Tenth Alabama, Wilcox’s brigade” to which General Lee replied “Yes, one of the finest brigades in the Army.” He is buried in Oxford Memorial Gardens.

Leon Smith
March 11, 1940-September 16, 2017

Mayor Smith moved to Chicago at a very young age and worked at a steel mill. He moved to Oxford in the 1960’s with his wife, Delone Banks Smith. They had 4 sons together. He coached many children in the Oxford area in different sports. He was a self-made businessman. He owned several fireworks and souvenir stands throughout the southeastern United States. In 1984 Smith was elected Mayor of Oxford and served until 2016. During his 8 terms as Mayor he served on numerous boards and organizations including Alabama League of Municipalities, President of Municipal Workers Compensation Fund Board, Legislative Executive Committee, Economic Development Council, League Finance Director, National League of Cities Finance, East Alabama Regional Planning and Development Commission, East Alabama Solid Waste Authority, Cerebral Palsy Board of Directors, Juvenile Justice Coordinating Council, Calhoun County chamber of Commerce Military Affairs Committee, and many, many more. Mayor Smith contributed substantially to the significant growth of Oxford.

Dudley Snow
December 25, 1803-April 12, 1863

Dudley Snow, married to Miss Priscilla Monger, was one of the first settlers of Oxford. In 1932, Dudley Snow purchased land from the Creek Indians and built his home which doubled as the first post office for the area. He built a smokehouse, a cotton gin, sawmill, a gristmill, a tannery, a blacksmith shop, slave quarters, three barns and a seed house.

Irene Phillips Sparks
September 22, 1925-August 27, 2005

Irene Sparks worked at the Oxford Public Library for 31 years; she was Library Director for 24 of those years. She moved with the Library from the Snow Street location to the Choccolocco Street location in 1979. Mrs. Sparks saw the first patron-access computers installed at the Library; they were donated by the Bill and Melinda Gates Foundation. Automated computer systems/programs to track circulation of library materials were also introduced during her tenure. Mrs. Sparks was married to Jimmy Sparks since 1945, and they had six children.

Jerry C. Sparks
July 29, 1934-May 19, 2014

Jerry Sparks married Roberta Burt in 1956. He worked for National Gypsum and retired after 34 years. He was an Oxford City Council member and also served on the Civil Service Board. He was a land owner and contractor.

Chief Robert Elonzo Sparks
July 28, 1879-May 7, 1948

Chief Sparks was a member of the Oxford Police Department for 20 years. He was a favorite among school children. He was shot and killed in the line of duty while trying to arrest a man for a disturbance call at a local grocery store. Another officer was critically injured on the same call.

Herman Tyndall "H.T." Stanford
October 12, 1896-April 5, 1985

H.T. Stanford was married to the former Terrell Pace. He served 30 years as Principal of Oxford High School. Stanford was a member of the First United Methodist Church. In 1975 he was selected as Oxford’s “Man of the Year” by Oxford’s Kiwanis Club.

John Henry Street
June 19, 1925-October 9, 2008

John Street was a World War II Marine and served in Europe and the Philipines. In 1952 he came to work at the Anniston Army Depot. He was the owner of Street Development and Street Realty and was President of the Homebuilders Association and local director of Calhoun County Area Board of Realtors. Mr. Street was director of the Calhoun County Chamber of Commerce and the Economic Development Board. He was also served as a member of the Oxford Rotary club, the Bynum Lions Club, a Mason and a Shriner.

Mary "Bernice" Tate
June 25, 1928-October 7, 2012

Bernice Tate was a charter member of the Oxford Pilot Club and a member of the Eastern Star. She was a top ten finalist for "Mother of the Year" in the 1970s. Tate served on the Oxford Civil Service Board for over 30 years and was the former member of the Oxford Flower Shop and Oxford Day Nursery and Kindergarten.

Logan Crawford Taylor Jr.
Marcy 22, 1917-February 21, 1989

In his youth, Logan Taylor was a bookkeeper at the auto parts store. He enlisted in the U.S. Army during World War II in 1944 and was discharged in 1946 as a Finance Sergeant. Taylor was later Chairman of the Board of the First Bank of Oxford and was named Director of the Federal Reserve Bank of Atlanta's Birmingham branch. During the 1940s, he served as an officer at the First National Bank of Anniston. He also served as President of the First State Bank of Oxford. Taylor was also a charter member of the Lion's Club.

Lane Thweatt Jr.
April 20, 1928-March 1, 1992

Known by many as Mr. Oxford, Thweatt expressed his love for Oxford High School sports as few others have. Although he was forced to end his formal education because of a childhood illness, his boundless enthusiasm for the football and basketball teams earned him a place on the sidelines, complete with awards and trophies, even though he never played on the field. Even though Lane Thweatt can no longer cheer on the players from the field, his name is emblazoned on the Press Box at the Oxford High School Football Field in his memory.

George Holland Wakefield
January 27, 1854-December 14, 1916

George Wakefield was married to the former Mattie M. Walker. His parents were John and Susan Wakefield. George Wakefield is buried at Oxford Memorial Gardens.

Chief Dewey Delbert Webb
September 27, 1912-March 4, 1986

Chief Dewey Webb served as Oxford's Fire Chief from 1960-1986. Before working as a fireman, he drove a bus for Ingram Bus Lines; after retirement from the bus company, he was hired by the city of Oxford as a building inspector, and he also served as volunteer Fire Chief. Chief Webb was the driving force to get the City Council to buy a $250,000 ladder truck to better serve the city; the Friendship Fire Station was built under his guidance. In 1984, he received the Mayor's Distinguished Service award. Webb was an honorary Lieutenant Colonel in Alabama's State Militia. October 27th, 1984 was named Dewey D. Webb Day by Oxford, Calhoun County, and the State of Alabama. Fire Station #1 on 6th Street is named in honor of Chief Webb.

Hemphill Gay Whiteside
November 4, 1906-February 12, 1986

Whiteside went to Calhoun County High School. He graduated from North Georgia Agricultural College, and was later employed as an insurance salesman. Whiteside was elected in 1944 as Mayor of Oxford and served for four terms. Mayor Whiteside was beaten by Mayor Hamric in 1960. He served as Director of the Alabama League of Municipalities.

Dr. Stephen Coleman Williams
July 1, 1816-March 3, 1881

Dr. Stephen Williams came to Oxford from South Carolina in 1845. He was one of five men who signed the corporation of Oxford in 1852. As its first elected mayor, he was also the first "unofficial" postmaster of Oxford. Dr. Williams practiced medicine. He and his wife, Mary A. Williams, had a son, Benjamin Dudley Williams, who was also a medical doctor for many years in the area. Stephen Williams played a strong role in establishing and helping to build the community. Williams is laid to rest at Oxford Memorial Gardens.

Willard Frank Young
August 16, 1946-March 2, 1968

Young was a graduate of OHS in 1964. While attending high school he was a member of band, French Club, and Beta Club. Young attended Auburn University's School of Engineering and Co-Op with M&H Valve. He was drafted in 1966, PFC Army for the Vietnam War. Young died in Gia Dinh, Ho Chi Minh Vietnam and was laid to rest in Forest Lawn Gardens.