“Still the Way We Were”
American Author Gretchen Rubin said, "The days are short, but the years are long and I add, the journey home is even longer, but forever.
As we embrace the evolving chapters of our lives, its surprises and exciting twists as well as head turning hard truths, we are returning home to celebrate a legacy of resilience. We are indeed the Class of 1973.
I want to begin by thanking you for the good fortune to pen this foreword for the Rufus King High School (RKHS) Class of 1973. Please know I am humbled, honored and deeply grateful forever, for 50 years of timeless friendship. As I reflect on this journey and the seats we all sat in as wide-eyed apprehensive high school freshmen many decades ago, we are now an incredible community of parents, grandparents and great grandparents. Nevertheless, we have aged gracefully and thank God that we are well.
We have blossomed from our youth, wildly ascending from high school into adulthood. Now rolling into our silver years, reminiscing about times past and sometimes even trying to remember the past, many of us have launched into the golden era of retirement. As we recall our childhood and adolescent friends, sadly there are many that are not with us today. Although deeply painful and heartfelt, let's remember the valued roles they played in our lives with a soft joyful smile as they lie in peaceful slumber.
Our life's work and tenure has been marked by extraordinary events and life's challenges. Technology advances, racial and criminal justice reform, September 11, 2001, January 6, 2021, international protests, global pandemics and 10 United States Presidents, just to name a few. Yet, living to witness the constitutional birth and unprecedented controversial death of Roe v. Wade, we still stand in our finest royal blue and gold, surviving unprecedented attacks on our democracy. You might
wonder what has kept us encouraged and afloat? We’ve made life choices between what was easy and what is right. Though we are flawed, I truly believe this class has chosen right while traveling the road of humanity.
Our toughness, unimaginable courage and tenacity as Rufus King Generals laid a solid foundation for our overwhelming hope and driven faith. We are descendants of greatness and purpose and that is the reason we are here today! We must continue to press forward and through future generations pass it on.
Just as the Scarecrow in the Wizard of Oz needed a brain, the Tin Man a heart and the Lion courage, we too, were nurtured with critical characteristics and firmly planted feet to travel the blue and gold brick road with sustained belief in limitless promise. When you think of role models; kindness, integrity, valor and compassion comes to mind. I am inspired, thankful and overjoyed that many of you see your true life’s work as an opportunity to pour into others.
Let’s have the homeroom call !
I could name names but fear in my neglect and faded memory, I would overlook the many impressionable heroes and heroines who we came in contact with during our time at Rufus King. Our teachers and leaders were truly “5 Star Generals." They were lions and warriors who embraced us knowing we were only fresh-faced “Privates."
We share rich memories and as you reflect, I’m sure you would acknowledge those selfless “5 Star Generals” with a bow of gratitude and thanks. Continue reasoning as the Scarecrow with the delighted heart of the Tin Man and roaring like the fearless Lion, no matter how old or gray. Our journey is forever connected, ongoing and timeless. Continue to build your legacy.
Welcome home RKHS Class of 1973 . ” You are 5 Star Generals!”
Debra Rash, Rufus King High School Class of 1973
It is hard to believe we are coming together to celebrate our 50th year high school reunion. I am filled with a sense of gratitude and nostalgia. The friendships we’ve made and memories we share have continued for more than half-century. The skills we developed at Rufus King High School attributed to our success and prepared us for the challenges we’ve faced throughout our lives. It is obvious we all have come a long way since our high school days.
As we reflect over the past 50 years, it is amazing to think about how the world has changed. Who would have thought in 1973, students would be carrying Chromebooks instead of textbooks in their book bags? Who would have thought cell phones would replace landlines and we would be lost without them? Who would have thought accessing information would be accomplished by using the Internet instead of paging through books and periodicals? Who would have thought flat screen TV’s would be an expectation for educational and recreational enjoyment all over the world? Who would have thought that cars would have the ability to drive themselves without a driver? Who would have thought you and I would be here today reflecting on the past 50 years? We look at you tonight and all we see are the seeds of success.
We would like to extend a warm welcome to all our classmates, spouses, partners, friends, and family. We want you to take this opportunity to reflect and connect with everyone and enjoy three days of fun activities that we planned especially with all of you in mind. One thing is certain as we continue to grow and situations change, Rufus King High School class of 1973 alumni are “Still The Way We Were!”
Sincerely,
District 1
Andrea M. Pratt AlderwomanCity Hall
200 E. Wells Street
Room 205 Milwaukee, WI 53202
aide1@milwaukee.gov
Phone: (414) 286-3456
“Meet & Greet” Business Casual Affair
Friday, August 11, 2023
5PM to 10:30PM
The Barley Room at The Pabst
1125 N. 9th Street
Milwaukee, WI
Eat, Dance and Enjoy
Saturday, August 12, 2023
Formal Dinner
5PM to 11PM
Sonesta Milwaukee West
10499 W. Innovation Drive
Wauwatosa, WI
Take It Outside
Sunday, August 13, 2023
Wear Your Commemorative T-shirt or 50 Year Reunion Celebration T-shirt
1PM to 5PM
Picnic in Kletzsch Park
6500 N. Milwaukee River Parkway
Glendale, WI
50 Year Reunion Celebration
Sonesta Milwaukee West Wauwatosa
10499 W. Innovation Drive
Wauwatosa, WI 53226
Saturday, August 12, 2023
Cocktail Hour/Raffle
Raffle tickets are available for purchase. ......................................................................................... 5PM - 6PM
Welcome
Preston Young, Jr., Alumni President ...................................................... Rufus King High School Class of 1973
Invocation
Reverend Atticus (Tyrone) Taylor, Associate Minister .................... Historic Mt. Zion AME Church Jacksonville, FL
Dinner ........................................................................................................................................... 6PM – 7PM
Memorial Service
“We Remember”
Elder Carla Norman Davis, Pastor ............................................................. Center of Prayer Ministry, Atlanta, GA
Ingrid Knox Gray and Luther Webb ..................................................................................... Planning Committee
Reverend Robert G. Childs, Pastor ...................................................... Berean Baptist Church, Washington, DC
“Gone Too Soon, But Never Forgotten” .........................................................................Tribute to Larry Thomas
Remarks
Preston Young, Jr., Alumni President ................................................................................. RKHS Class of 1973
Entertainment
Marlin Hill, Comedian .............................. Comedy Central & MTV, BET’s Comic View, HBO’s Def Comedy Jam, Cartoon Network, “The Boondocks”
ABSOLUTELY NO VIDEO TAPING OR RECORDING OF MARLIN HILLS’ PERFORMANCE. THANK YOU.
Raffle: You must be present to win!
I graduated from Lincoln High School in 1978; “Go Comets!”
I am a drummer and happily married. In 2005, I retired from UPS. Five years ago, I started my DJ career. I play a myriad of music which includes Jazz, Blues, R&B, Reggae, Rock and Gospel.
As a DJ, I’ve performed for groundbreaking events, birthday parties, weddings, holiday gatherings, Bopping, Stepping, and Ballroom sets. I also perform for class reunions. I go by the name of “DJ Grown and Sexy!”
All King students are asked to make the following pledge: “Because I make a difference, I commit myself to ethical behavior that is not harmful to others. I recognize my responsibility and importance to my school, others, and myself, and I will endeavor to maintain this pledge.”
The mission of Rufus King High School is to accomplish the MPS K-12 goals of excellence by providing a quality college preparatory education to all students. Our goal is to assure that students receive the highest degree of academic excellence and preparation for college through four years of intense studies. Skills will be developed in effective communication, technological competency, and understanding of global society with appreciation and knowledge of the arts. All these areas of learning will incorporate the development of positive personal vehicles for self-expression strategies for living and goal orientation.
Know the value of time; snatch, seize and enjoy every moment of it, no idleness, no laziness, no procrastination, never put off till tomorrow what you can do today. Work is a necessity in this world, and those who have a genius for work climb higher than their fellows who do not apply themselves, even though the latter have the greater talent.
Here’s to our colors. Here’s to our fame. Blue and Gold of King march on. Singing her glory, shouting her name, We’re ever loyal, U Rah! Rah! Rah! Fight, for undaunted we’ll ever be. King will never yield. So fellows fight, fight, fight for victory, As Rufus King goes down the field.
Your praises we all sing. Your colors to the skies unfold, The glorious Blue and Gold. Heart and hand we pledge to thee. Eternal loyalty. And in our heart your name shall ring Hail, Hail, to thee dear King.
Administrators
Principal, Spence Potter
Assistant Principal, Ivory Handley
Assistant Principal, Myrthle Hyman
Assistant Principal, Fred Bland
Administrative Assistant, Saul Reeves
Staff
Mr. M. Andrea, Driver’s Education
Mr. G. Andrews, Music
Ms. M. Aniakudo, English
Ms. C. Atkins, Physical Education
Mr. R. Banks, Industrial Arts
Ms. C. Berry, Business Education
Ms. C. Blackburn, English
Ms. A. Brown, English
Mr. R. Brown, Social Studies
Mr. A. Burton, Physical Education
Mr. M. Burton, Math
Mr. G. Chars, Foreign Language
Department Chairman
Ms. J. Collins, English
Ms. P. Collins, Home Economics
Ms. L. Corrao, English
Ms. B. Cox, Business Education
Mr. B. Craney, Industrial Arts
Ms. P. Curran, English
Ms. C. Currie, English
Ms. C. Dannenfelser, Art
Ms. G. Davis, Business Education
Mr. L. Davis, Social Studies
Mr. D. Domencich, Science
Department Chair
Ms. M. Fair, Learning Center
Ms. S. Fisk, English
Mr. D. Forecki, Math
Mr. John Foti, Social Studies/
Athletic Director
Mr. T. Frank, English
Ms. K. Fuller, Home Economics
Mr. V. Furlong, Social Studies
Ms. C. Gallant, Business Education
Mr. G. Gamble, Art Department
Chairman
Mr. P. Garcia, Math
Mr. A. Gauthier, Social Studies
Mr. B. Gilbert, Science
Ms. L. Givens, Math
Ms. M. Glassner, Science
Ms. P. Glover, Business Education
Ms. A. Griffiths, Social Studies
Mr. O. Guillory, Social Studies
Mr. D. Gustafson, Science
Mr. H. Hansen, Physical Education
Ms. C. Harris, Librarian
Ms. D. Hartnett, Foreign Language
Mr. T. Herring, Science
Ms. B. Hyman, Business Education
Department Chairman
Mr. R. Jackson, Foreign Language
Ms. J. Jenson, English
Mr. J. Jepson, Music
Mr. S. Johnson, Special Education
Ms. K. Johnston, Social Studies
Mr. J. Kiehl, Reading
Mr. D. Klipstein, Math
Mr. J. Kmoch, Math
Mr. R. Kraiss, Industrial Arts
Mr. E, Kroening, English
Mr. D. Kynaston, English
Mr. J. Lake, Distributive Education
Ms. E. Lee, English
Department Chairman
Mr. D. McCoy, Math
Ms. G. Macklin, Business Education
Ms. S. Malasko, Special Education
Ms. P. Malicki, English
Mr. T. Maurer, Music
Department Chairman
Ms. S. Mertens, Home Economics
Mr. P. Moloney, Social Studies
Department Chairman
Mr. P. Moore, Science
Ms. P. Morrison, Home Economics
Ms. C. Murillo, Foreign Language
Ms. E. O’Brien, English
Ms. E. Ogbetuo, Home Economics
Department Chairman
Mr. A. Olson, Math
Mr. E. Peli, Distributive Education
Ms. M. Player, Business Education
Ms. L. Recoy, Librarian
Ms. C. Reul, Art
Mr. W. Rogers, Social Studies
Ms. J. Ruffin, English
Mr. J. Sadowski, Art
Mr. S. Salter, Special Education
Mr. W. Schmidt, Industrial Arts
Department Chairman
Mrs. K, Schumacher, Speech
Mr. V. Siebeneck, Math
Mr. J. Smith, Special Education
Department Chairman
Mr. R. Smith, Math
Ms. D. Spells, Physical Education
Ms. B. Stuart, Physical Education
Mr. K. Sweet, Social Studies
Ms. C. Thill, Office Education
Ms. C. Thomas, Music
Ms. D. Wallace, Math
Department Chairman
Mr. F. Walls, Business Education
Mr. S. Watkins, Science
Ms. B. Watson, Home Economics
Mr. R. Wiedmeyer, Science
Ms. M. Woehrer, Social Studies
Ms. E. York, English
Mr. J. Zunk, Physical Education
Department Chairman
L-R: Preston Young, Jr., Cheryl Hill, Marian Washington, Jeanie O’Neal Jones, Steve Gathing
L-R: Eddie Scott, Sherry Jackson, Neomi Ratliff, Mildred Henry, Ingrid Knox Gray, Marshall Martin, Luther Webb
Norbert Washington Committee Member
Carolyn Napier-Shropshire T-shirt Liaison
L-R: Edward Kelly, Michael Taylor, Arthur Burks, Tyrone O’Kelley
I was inspired on January 21, 2023 to attend my first Rufus King High School (RKHS) planning meeting in memory of Larry Thomas. Although he was not a graduate of RKHS, Larry claimed his title as a “General” upon entering Rufus King as a freshman in 1970. Larry was a member of the RKHS basketball team before transferring to Northfield High School in Minnesota, where he was a fierce competitor on the court and a most valuable asset to the “Raider” running game. Larry graduated from Northfield High School in 1973.
Larry and I have a special bond with one another. Our friendship began in middle school and continued throughout our lives. First and foremost, “I love him unconditionally.”
I am honored to add this unforgettable experience to the many projects we were passionate about. This includes us joining forces with Andrew Triplett in preserving the legacy of Principal, Andrew S. Douglas. We were a formidable force and led the charge to rename Francis Parkman Jr. High School in his honor.
So, with appreciation for the numerous contributions that Larry made as an “Honorary Member” of the RKHS Class of 1973 Executive Committee, I thank you for allowing me to play a pivotal role in the planning of your 50 Year Reunion Celebration in memory of our beloved Larry Thomas.
Francis Parkman Panther
“Better Than The Best!”
I didn’t set out to be the Contributing Editor for our 50 Year Commemorative Booklet, but here I am thanks to Avis Weber. If you are wondering why me, let me tell you what we both have in common besides being “over the top.” We both have a zeal for perfection, we’re affectionate and love to engage others. It’s one thing to be a visionary like Avis, but she needed someone who was passionate about our legacy as Rufus King Generals, and that was me!
The emphasis of this booklet is on unity and the lifelong friendships we developed. We know where we came from, but we have no idea what the future holds. This project has been a labor of love with positive interactions in addition to giving me an opportunity to go back inside the school and relive as well as explore the school we once attended. It also allowed me time to sit down with some of my classmates and reconnect while reminiscing about the past.
In some cases during our conversations, we even questioned what we were thinking about when we went on some of our adventures back then. It also gave us a chance to admit what we did was crazy and we definitely wouldn’t try to do the same thing today. What is amazing is how we were able to recite some of these moments as if they just happened yesterday.
Who would have thought that 50 years later we would be:
2 Good
2 Be
4 Gotten
“Ain’t no mountain high enough, Ain’t no river wide enough” and you have definitely proven this to be true. I am thankful for our past and optimistic about our future.
If we made you smile during our 50 Year Reunion Celebration our mission was accomplished! Let’s enjoy today and remember, love and friendship can endure. We are all a part of the Rufus King High School Class of 1973 village.
There are so many things you could be doing and so many places you could be but you chose to be here with us.
For the last 30 years my wife, five children, and I have lived in South Madison. We have used our platform to amplify community voices, broaden the scope of Madison's youth, adult, and senior services, and develop Madison's responsive city services.
Madison Alder for the 13th District from 2005-2007 & 14th District from 2023-2025
Retired State of Wisconsin & Dane County Government Manager
We deeply appreciate you and offer gifts of gratitude and thankfulness.
Canaan Baptist Church
2975 N. 11th Street
Milwaukee, WI 53206
Phone: (414) 264-2070
Website: www.canaanchurchmke.org
Email: canaanforchrist@aol.com
Reverend Dr. Fredrick E. Jones
Reverend Dr. Fredrick E. Jones was called to the stewardship of pastor for Canaan Baptist Church on June 29, 2014. As a pastoral leader, he focuses on Christian Education, spiritual growth and discipleship with an emphasis on Evangelism. Proverbs 29:18 reads “Without a vision the people perish.” Corinthians 4:5 reads “For we preach not ourselves, but Christ Jesus the Lord; and ourselves your servants for Jesus’ sake.” As a businessman and leader, Reverend Dr. Fredrick E. Jones is making a stand for community engagement.
We are thankful to Reverend Dr. Fredrick E. Jones for opening the doors of Canaan Baptist Church and welcoming the Rufus King High School Class of 1973 planning committee. His generosity provided us with a tranquil meeting place for facilitating the planning of our 50 Year Reunion Celebration.
A. F. Gallun & Sons Tannery
A. O. Smith Corporation
Allen Bradley-Rockwell Automation
Allis-Chalmers Corporation
American Motors
Amtrak
Blatz Brewing Company
Briggs and Stratton Corporation
Bucyrus Erie Company
Cargill Inc.
Caterpillar Inc.
Childrens Hospital
City of Milwaukee
Columbia Hospital
Continental Can
Cudahy Corporation
Cutler-Hammer
Deaconess Hospital
Eaton Corporation
Falk Corporation
Geiser Potato Chip Company
Globe-Union
Great Lakes Tanning Company
Grede Foundries, Inc.
Harnischfeger Industries, Inc.
Heil Company
Jaeger Company
Jays Potato Chip Company
Johnson Control
Joseph Schlitz Brewing Company
Joy Global Inc.
Klement’s Sausage
Master Lock
Miller Brewing Company
Milwaukee County Hospital
Milwaukee Iron Company
Milwaukee Journal Sentinel
Milwaukee Public Schools
Neher Electric Supply
Nordberg Manufacturing Company
Northwest General Hospital
Pabst Brewing Company
Packing House
Patrick Cudahy
Peck Packing Company
Pfister & Vogel Leather Co.
Port of Milwaukee
Rose Company
Rose Industries, Inc.
Rex Chainbelt
Rexnord Corporation
Rexworks
St. Anthony Hospital
St. Francis Hospital
St. Joseph’s Hospital
St. Luke’s Hospital
St. Mary’s Hospital
St. Michael’s Hospital
Schlitz Brewery
Seaman Body Corporation
United States Postal Service
Usinger Sausage
Veterans Administration
Wonder Bread
Good evening everyone. In honor of our classmates who are no longer with us, we would like to have a Celebration of Life Tribute!
Life brings tears, smiles, and memories. In time, the tears dry, the smiles fade, but the memories last forever. In honor of our female classmates who are no longer with us, some of you received a red rose with a name on the ribbon. When the name is called, please stand. Remain standing until every name is called. The red rose you hold is a symbol of love and cannot be measured.
In honor of our male classmates who are no longer with us, some of you received a candle with a name on it. When the name is called, please stand and turn on the light. Please continue standing until all the names are read. The candle you hold symbolizes the light that shines in our hearts.
They were not just our classmates; they were our friends. They were our family, and they will continue to be in our hearts. Thank you for allowing us this time to display and honor those who are gone but will never be forgotten.
Manuel Adams
Michael Addison
Emma Agnew
Yolanda Alexander
Robert Lee Allen, Jr.
(DOD Unknown)
Sandra Allen
Gwendolyn Anderson
Tazzalenn Anthony
Warren Atkinson
Steve Ball
Roosevelt Banks
Ronald Spencer Barnes
Jack Bass
Vernelle Bass
Alzonie Bates
Regina Billoups
Annie Blain
Vanessa Bledsoe
Gloria J. Blount
Gail Bolden
Delisa Bond
Renee Booker
Joyce Bradley
Ella Louise Brown (2014)
Gregory Brown
Henry Clay Brown
lnez Brown
Patience J. Brown
Ray Edward Brown
Stanley Evans Brown
Bathena Bryant
Jamesetta Bunn
Spring Elaine Burgess
Arthur Burks
lvory J. Burtin
Jonathan Butler
Dawn Calloway
(DOD Unknown)
Mardell Patrice Calloway
Phillip Calvert
Faye Campbell
Darrell Eugene Cannon
Presley Carlyle
D’Angelo Carr
Albert Carrington, Jr.
Jeffrey Chambers (2019)
Marilyn Yvonne Charles
Marie Cheatham (2000)
Freda M. Childs
Mary J. Childs
Robert Glenn Childs
Shirley Clayborn
Ouida Cobb
Tony Cobb
Jerome Cockerham
Patti Cockroft
Dwight Edward Coleman
Willie Lee Coleman
Richard Coleman
John Collins
Jerry L. Conley
Forrest Conner
Linda F. Conners
Patricia Ann Conwell
Wildred Ann Cotton
Wanda Cowan
Ozell Cox
Rodney Cubbie (2016)
Alice Dalton
Sharisse Dalton
Sandra Ann Daniels
Ronald Dantzler
Delores Ann Davis
Donnie Roy Davis
Gwendolyn Davis
Leon Ottis Davis
Ronny Davis
Barbara L. DeBerry
Willie Delbridge
Paula D. Dennison
Bernadette Diggs
Darrell Carlos Dixon
Patricia Dixon
Carl Edward Dorsey
Frederick Dorsey (2021)
Sharon Douglas
Gail Dunlap
Vivian Ealy
Adele Early
lvy Easterly
Laurita Venesse Edwards
Maguita Edwards
Amos Lee Ellis (2023)
Carol Marie Ellis
Mark Ellis
Alvin T. Ellison (2017)
Patricia Elmore
Revanell Everett
Robert Farrington
Sherry Fayne (2023)
Darius Garfield Ference
(DOD Unknown)
Ulysses L. Ference (2017)
Jerry Ferguson
Sheldon Ferguson
Danny Finkley
Theresa Fisher
Betty J. Fleming
Arthur Lee Flowers
Linn D. Ford (1973)
Charles Elkins Foster
Debra Fuffor
Steven Gathing
Felix Gibson (1991)
Martha Gale Glisper
Rhonda Y. Glover
Occum B. Glover
Pam Godley
Jerri Golden (2018)
Debra Ann Goodwin
Danae Gordon
Marketta L. Gore
Peter D. Graham
Linda Faye Grant
Orma Jean Gray (2022)
Terri Lynn Gray
Cassandra Green
Natalie D. Green
Duane Greer (DOD Unknown)
Kenneth Wayne Grice
Cassandra Griffin
Kenneth Griffin
lra Jean Hadnot
Elaine Hampton
Lorraine Hampton
Willie Hannah
Yolanda Harady
Yolanda V. Hardy
Joann Harmon
Mollie Harrell
Charmaine Harris
Marry Harris
Ronald Harris
Steven Harris
Anthony Harrison
Rickey E. Hayes
Ann Hazelwood
June R. Hazelwood
Claudette J. Henderson
Willie Henderson
Abbie Hendriex
Deborah Henry
Annie B. Herron
Charlie Hibbler
Shirley Hicks (DOD Unknown)
Julius Earl Hightower
Bernadette L. Hill
Cheryl Hill
Jacqulyn Marie Hill
Charles Edward Hilson
Patricia Hogan
Yvonne Holder
Annette Holland
Jeanette Holland
Larry Holland
Denise Holliman
Chekita Holt
Florence Chekita Holt
Sheila Holt
Tyrone Holt (2022)
Denise Lois Hopper (2011)
Elizabeth Hortman
Marcia D. Hortman (2017)
lnora Howze
Luther D. Hughes
Willie Davis Hyche
Billy Tyrone lrvine
Andrea Jackson
Carolyn Jackson
Debra Jackson
Michael Jackson (DOD Unknown)
Rozalind Jackson
Sherry Renee Jackson
S. Janus
Clarence Jenkins
Delphine Jenkins
Sharon Johnnies
Craig Johnson
Keith J. Johnson
Elois Johnson
Jerry Jeron Johnson
Lanette A. Johnson
Marlene Johnson
Kathy Jones
Mary Easter Jones
Sharon Denise Jones
Carol Junior
Buster L. Kates
James Kedziora
Edward Kelly, Jr.
Stephanie Kendrick
Kerry Kendrix
Nancy B. Kincaid
Johnny King
Michael Terry King
Ruth Evelyn Kinlow (1973)
Rosemary Kirk
lngrid Knox
lsadore Knox, Jr.
Barbara Lathan
Sheila Lathon
Willie Lathon, Jr.
Ellie Leflore
Lewis Leflore
Larry Leonard (2003)
Patricia Diane Levells
Mary Lewis
Denita Marie Love (2000)
Maurice Love
Vanessa Lowery
Alfred Maurice Lucas
Anthony Charles Lucas
Cassandra Madison
Evelyn Malone
Raphael Malone (1999)
Lavern Manns
Wilma Lee Manns
Everton Gersham Martin
Marshall S. Martin
Debra M. Maxwell
Dawna R. Mayfield
Virginia D. McClendon
Joyce Edwina McCrary
James McDonald, Jr.
Lillian Denise McDougal
Sharon C. McFadden
Juan McKinley
Tammie Frances McKinney
Jenean Carol McMillon
Judith McVicker
Terry W. McWilliams
Donald Anthony Meatheney
Diane Miles
Alex Miller, Jr.
Darnice Miller
Maggie Lee Miller
Patricia Milton
Joyce A. Mims
Richard L. Monroe
Garylee David Monteen
Grace Ardella Montgomery
Jeffery Lloyd Montgomery
Thaddeus Edward Moore, Sr. (2020)
Wilton Roger Moring
Joseph Lewis Mosley
Joyce Ann Myles
Carolyn Napier
Barbara Nash
Tommy Gene Nash
Cheryl Nelson
Joseph Nelson
Monya Eugena Nelson
Mary Ellen Nerad
Arlene Newson
Reginald R. Newson
Kenneth Ray Newton (2018)
Verdale Nichols
Cecil P. Nicholson
Patsy Norman
Wonnie Joyce Norwood
Eugenia O’Neal
Patricia O’Neil
Christopher Gladston O’Sullivan
Ernestine Renee Owens (2023)
John Earl Parish
James Otis Parrett
Carey L. Patterson
Craig Allen Patterson
Yvonne Pearson
Deemetrice Darlene Perkins
Donna Lenora Perkins
William L. Perry
Frenchie Perteet
Harold J. Pick
Zachery Jack Piggee
Ahmab (Gary) Pinkerton
Gary Pinkerton
Benjamin Polk
Rayrnond Lamont Purifoy
Ertis Ragsdale
Sam Ragsdale
(DOD Unknown)
Kenneth Ramsey
Dennis Randle
Debra Lynn Rash
Beverly Ratliff
Neomi Lorraine Ratliff
Shirley M. Rayford
Vera Ellen Rice
Karen Michel Richards
Isaac Richardson (2017)
Gavin C. Roberson
Robert M. Roberts
Ronald W. Roberts
Henry O’Neil Robinson
Shirley Ree Robinson Quinn
Mary E. Roby
Melva Lois Roby
Judy Rogers
Tyra Jean Rogers
Debora A. Ross
Denise Ross
Regina Royster (2023)
Cynthia Denise Rush (2011)
Amos Russell, Jr.
Janice Russell
Carol Sandles
Dorothy M. Scott
Eddie Wayne Scott
Jeffery L. Scott
Kevin T. Scott
Robin Faith Searcy
Angela Jannetta Serayer
Barbara Jean Shaw
Charles Allen Shaw
Mina E. Sherard
Edna Simpson
Jimmie Dale Sims
Constance J. Sledge
Shirley Jean Slocum
Aleta Smith
Alvin Smith (2023)
Linda Faye Smith
Pamela Smith “Harris” (2015)
Ralph Smith
Sandra Smith
Vivian Smith
Jerome Spencer (2022)
Floyd White Stamps
Michael Dennis Stanford
Mildred Staples
Karla Stewart
Michael Eugene Stewart
Reginald Thomas Stone
Frank James Straughter
Debra Striblet
James M. Stricklen
Lonnie Sumbry (2018)
Fernandez Sonny Swan (2008)
Kenneth Tatum
Anthony Taylor, Jr.
Atticus Taylor
Deborah A. Taylor
Doris Taylor
Lymon Taylor
Michael Taylor
Brenda Thomas
Charlotte Thomas
Daniel K. Thomas
Denise Marie Thomas
James Edward Thomas
Larry Thomas (2022) *
Undrae Thomas
Willie Mae Thomas
Anthony Thompson
Florene Marie Thornton
Jacqueline Ann Todd (2002)
Kenneth G. Townsend
Connie D. Travis
Liddie Triggs
Sandra Triplett
Cynthia Lynn Turner
Debra Ann Turner
Doris Marie Tydus
Delores Tyner
Otis Vann
Ronald C. Vasser (2018)
Gerline Vernell
Laura Vernell
Rita Sue Walker
Mary Ann Walter
Shirley A. Ward
Marian Washington
Nancy M. Washington
Norbert Kenneth Washington
Vivian Watkins
Denise V. Watson
Dorethea Wattleton
Gregory H. Weaver
Luther Webb
Bobbie Webber
Priscilla Wesley
Carla Denise Wilcox
Frederick L. Wilder
Patricia Wilder
Billy Williams
Helen Williams
Larry Robert Williams
Lawrence Williams
Marilyn Sue Williams
Vikkiv Jesse Williams
Artis Williamson (2008)
Jeffrey L. Williamson
Charles Michael Wills
Anthony C. Wilson
Barbara Wilson
Vickie Gail Wilson
Pat Winding
Carlton Winfrey
Duane Stephan Woodson (2010)
Evan L. Wright
Patricia Wright
Eva Jean Wynne (2011)
Gregory Young
Joann Young
Preston Young, Jr.
Marcus Mays (2022) **
Leading causes of death among Black U.S. residents in 2021 per Statista Research Department published on September 27, 2021.
In the United States, there are inconsistencies in the types and risks for health conditions, disabilities and mortality based on race and ethnicity. There are inequalities when it comes to access and availability of health care services. What can you do to lower your risk for heart disease?
• Control your blood pressure and check it regularly.
• Keep your cholesterol and triglyceride levels under control.
• Maintain a healthy weight.
• Eat a healthy diet.
What can you do to lower your risk for heart disease?
Cholesterol
• Get regular exercise.
• Drink alcohol in moderation.
• Don’t smoke.
• Manage your stress.
High levels of cholesterol can clog your arteries and raise the risk for Coronary Artery and Heart Disease. Lifestyle changes and medications can lower cholesterol. Being overweight or obese can lead to high blood pressure, high cholesterol and diabetes. Limit saturated fats, sodium and sugar. Eat plenty of fresh fruits, vegetables and whole grains. Exercise helps to strengthen your heart and improve circulation. It can also help maintain a healthy weight, lower cholesterol and blood pressure. Drinking too much alcohol can raise your blood pressure and add excess calories to your diet. Smoking raises your blood pressure and stress can raise your blood pressure and trigger a heart attack. Exercise, listening to music, meditating and remaining calm can all help manage stress.
Diabetes
Diabetes doubles your risk for heart disease. It can damage your blood vessels and the nerves which control your heart and blood vessels. Get tested and keep your blood sugar levels under control. Most adults need 7 to 9 hours of sleep per night. Insufficient sleep raises your risk for diabetes, high blood pressure and obesity.
Cancer
Cancer is a genetic disease caused by changes in genes that control the way cells grow and multiply in your DNA. DNA (Deoxyribonucleic Acid) is the self replicating material which exists in almost all living organisms and carries genetic information.
Cancer Prevention
Cancer fighting foods include fruits, nuts and vegetables such as berries, broccoli, tomatoes, walnuts and grapes.
• Don’t smoke.
• Maintain a healthy weight.
• Exercise regularly.
• Eat a healthy diet.
Vitamin Supplements
• Drink alcohol in moderation.
• Protect yourself from the sun.
• Protect yourself from infections.
• Get regular screening tests.
Vitamin D is one of the most studied supplements for cancer prevention and treatment today. Vitamin A, Vitamin C, Vitamin E and Beta-carotene contain antioxidants which may help reduce the risk for cancer.
Maintaining a healthy weight, eating a healthy diet, regular exercise, limiting alcohol and not smoking are things we can do to reduce the risk for heart disease and cancer. What we eat and what we do or don't do can impact our overall health.
