Rev. Bobby L. Bradley Jr.
Sunrise - Nov. 17, 1960
Sunset - June 9, 2007
Rev. Bobby L. Bradley Jr. was a mentor, coach and faith leader whose life exemplified perseverance, service and dedication to youth in the Daytona Beach community. Raised in Caroline Village and the Pine Haven projects, Bradley overcame adversity through hard work, discipline and faith, becoming a powerful role model for young people growing up in the same neighborhoods.
Bradley’s commitment to education was central to his life. He was a graduate of Seabreeze High School, Santa Fe College and Bethune-Cookman College, and later earned a master’s degree from Gammon Theological Seminary. His academic and spiritual journey reflected his belief in the transformative power of education, determination and purpose.
A respected coach and mentor, Bradley dedicated many years to coaching basketball at the Cypress Street Recreation Center and Mainland High School. Through sports, he taught young people the values of teamwork, sportsmanship, perseverance and leadership, emphasizing the importance of working together to overcome challenges and achieve shared goals.
Beyond athletics, Bradley’s charitable work and mentorship demonstrated an unwavering commitment to uplifting others. He consistently invested his time and energy into helping young people pursue their passions and develop confidence, discipline and resilience.
Though his life was cut short at the age of 46, Bradley’s impact continues to be felt throughout the community. He is remembered as a valued leader whose guidance and example inspired generations of youth to believe in themselves, persevere through hardship and strive for greatness.
Winona Agatha Mason Brown
Sunrise - Feb. 22, 1889
Sunset - June 22, 1964
Winona Mason Brown was a dedicated music educator whose work enriched the African American community in Daytona Beach. A native of New Orleans, she came to Daytona Beach from Chicago and earned a Bachelor of Music degree from Chicago Music College. She also attended Oberlin College of Music in Ohio.
Brown taught music in the Volusia County public school system for more than 20 years and also taught at Bethune-Cookman College. She authored the school song for Campbell High School, the city’s first African American high school, leaving a lasting legacy in local education and culture.
Through her teaching, Brown addressed the critical need for music education within the African American community and helped students develop both skill and appreciation for music. She was widely respected as a valued leader and educator whose contributions had a lasting impact on generations of students.
Henry T. Jack Christian
Sunrise - July 15, 1907
Sunset - May 14, 2000
Henry T. “Jack” Christian was a longtime businessman, educator and civil rights figure whose impact on the Daytona Beach and Crescent City communities spanned more than four decades. A self-employed appliance salesman and repairman, Christian also worked as a bus driver, bellhop at the former Williams Hotel, gas appliance installer and insurance salesman, meeting community needs through skill, service and determination.
He taught auto mechanics at the Volusia County Vocational School and served as a vocational instructor for young African American men, providing hands-on training in brick masonry, plumbing and electrical work.
Christian helped reorganize the NAACP in Daytona Beach and Crescent City and played a pivotal role in one of the most significant civil rights victories of the World War II era.
With the guidance of attorney Thurgood Marshall, he and 18 other African American sailors successfully challenged the United States Navy in a class action lawsuit that overturned their dishonorable discharges in 1945. At a time when such resistance was rare and risky, Christian stood firm against injustice. Known as a true “jack of all trades,” he shared his expertise daily and led by example.
Joel Van Fears
Sunrise - Aug. 10, 1938
Sunset - May 21, 2017
Joel Van Fears Sr. was a distinguished engineer, veteran and community leader whose life reflected a deep commitment to service, education and civic engagement. Born Aug. 10, 1938, in Lufkin, Texas, he was the youngest of seven children of Jonathan T. Fears Sr. and Belma Denman Fears. A U.S. Navy veteran, Fears retired from NASA’s John F. Kennedy Space Center after 30 years of service as an electrical engineer and project manager.
Following his retirement from NASA, Fears continued his dedication to education by working part time for three years at Daytona Beach Community College, now Daytona State College. He was a graduate of Prairie View A&M University and a life member of the Institute of Electrical and Electronics Engineers and the National Technical Association.
Fears was deeply involved in civic and social service organizations. He served as first vice president of the Daytona Beach Branch NAACP, vice president of the John H. Dickerson Friends of the Library, and held membership in the Daytona Beach Amateur Radio Association. His leadership helped strengthen institutions that supported education, access and equity within the community.
For more than 40 years, Fears was an active member of Stewart Memorial United Methodist Church, where he served in numerous leadership roles, including lay leader, administrative council chair, trustee board chair and scouting coordinator. His commitment to youth development was especially evident through his more than 35 years of service with the Boy Scouts of America as scoutmaster, cubmaster, scouting coordinator and district committee member. He also served the United Methodist Church at the district and conference levels in multiple leadership capacities.
Throughout his life, Fears received numerous honors recognizing his service and leadership, including NASA’s Sustained Superior Performance Award, multiple Stewart Memorial United Methodist Church Man of the Year awards, the Daytona Beach NAACP Award for Going Beyond the Call of Duty, the NAACP Humanitarian Award and the Boy Scouts of America Silver Beaver Award for Distinguished Service. Additional recognition came from faith-based and civic organizations for his lifelong dedication to youth, leadership and community uplift.
Alongside his wife of 49 years, Mary J. Fears, he also contributed to preserving African American history as a Civil War reenactor and technical assistant on the award-winning docudrama “Filling the Gap,” a nominee for the 42nd Annual NAACP Image Awards. Widely respected for his integrity, empathy and vision, Fears was known as a mentor, team player and trusted leader whose influence continues to resonate throughout the Daytona Beach community.
Farrise Bennett Fryer
Sunrise - March 12, 1925
Sunset - April 10, 2014
Mrs. Farrise B. Fryer was a lifelong educator, community servant, and civic leader whose dedication to education and service made a meaningful impact in Daytona Beach, Florida. She was born on March 12, 1925, to the late Gladys Babb and Morgan Bennett, Sr., and attended public schools in Daytona Beach. She earned a Bachelor of Science in Education from Bethune-Cookman College in 1959 and later earned a Master of Education from Florida A&M University.
Mrs. Fryer devoted 35 years to teaching elementary school in the Volusia County Public School System. Throughout her career, she touched the lives of thousands of children and adults through her commitment to education and mentorship. She was married to the late Cephus Fryer, Sr., and was the mother of four children.
Her faith and church involvement were central to her life. She found Christ at an early age and was a member of Providence Baptist Church in Daytona Beach, which was founded by her grandfather, John Babb. She later became a member of Mt. Zion AME Church, where she served actively on various auxiliaries.
Mrs. Fryer was deeply engaged in her community. In the 1960s, she was instrumental in forming a weekly Sock Hop for youth at the Cypress Street Recreation Center. She was actively involved in the NAACP at both the local and state levels, serving as a Life Member of the Daytona Beach Branch, Treasurer of the local branch and Chairperson for Constitution and Bylaws for the Florida State Conference NAACP. She was also a member of Mummies and Zeniths, Inc., a local sorority dedicated to community service.
In addition to receiving numerous awards and commendations, Mrs. Fryer served on local boards for the City of Daytona Beach. She also enjoyed gardening, baking, shopping and spending time enjoying life.
Joseph W. Hatchett, Esq
Sunrise - Sep. 17, 1932
Sunset - April 30, 2021
Joseph W. Hatchett was a pioneering attorney and jurist whose career transformed access to justice in Daytona Beach, Florida and across the nation. He began his legal career in private practice in the Daytona Beach Midtown area on old Campbell Street, now Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Boulevard, where he quickly became known for advocating on behalf of those whose voices were often unheard.
Hatchett attended segregated Pinellas High School in Clearwater, Florida, and committed early to a life of public service. He earned a Bachelor of Arts degree from Florida A&M University in 1954, served as a lieutenant in the United States Army from 1954 to 1956, and received his Juris Doctor from Howard University School of Law in 1959. From 1959 to 1966, he operated a solo law practice in Daytona Beach and served as a cooperating attorney for the NAACP Legal Defense Fund during a critical period of the civil rights movement.
In addition to private practice, Hatchett held several key public service roles. He served as a consultant for the Daytona Beach Urban Renewal Department, an assistant United States attorney for the Middle District of Florida, and a special hearing officer for conscientious objectors with the U.S. Department of Justice. He later served in the United States Marine Corps Reserve as a lieutenant colonel and judge advocate from 1977 to 1988.
In 1975, Florida Gov. Reubin Askew appointed Hatchett as an associate justice of the Florida Supreme Court, making him the first African American appointed to the court since Reconstruction and the first African American elected to public office in a statewide election in the South. His appointment marked a historic milestone for Florida and the nation. Legal leaders widely praised his integrity, ethics and unwavering commitment to equality under the law.
In 1979, President Jimmy Carter appointed Hatchett to the United States Court of Appeals for the 11th Circuit, where he served for 20 years and became chief judge from 1996 to 1999. After retiring from the bench in 1999, he continued his legal service as a senior partner at Akerman LLP in Tallahassee.
Hatchett’s legacy of leadership and justice earned national recognition. He was inducted into the National Bar Association Hall of Fame and received the American Bar Association Commission on Racial and Ethnic Diversity Spirit of Excellence Award. His lifelong dedication to fairness, equality and public service is further honored through the Joseph W. Hatchett Bar Association, named in his honor to support minority lawyers serving communities in North and Central Florida.
Willie Mae Huggins
Sunrise - Feb. 18, 1918
Sunset - Nov. 16, 2017
Willie Mae Huggins was a devoted church leader, mentor and caregiver whose lifetime of service left a lasting impact on the Daytona Beach community. Affectionately known as “Ma Dear” by those whose lives she touched, Huggins served as a guiding presence, nurturing children and supporting youth with love, patience and dedication.
She held numerous leadership roles within her church, including president of the Women Home Mission Society, director of the Youth Department, assistant superintendent of Sunday School, toddler class teacher and member of the Senior Choir. Huggins also contributed over 50 years of service to the Mt. Zion Northeast Coast Association Layman and Youth Department, demonstrating tireless commitment to faith-based education and community outreach.
Beyond her church work, Huggins co-directed the Wonderland Day Center, where she provided childcare and taught Bible lessons to young children. Through these efforts, she met critical needs for spiritual guidance, early education and nurturing support for families in the community.
Huggins’ leadership was defined by compassion, consistency and care. She was widely respected as a mother figure, offering guidance, encouragement and mentorship to generations of children and adults alike. Her life of service reflects a legacy of faith, community devotion and unconditional love.
Bessie Murphy Marshall
Sunrise - Dec. 20, 1936
Sunset - Oct. 3, 2013
Bessie Marshall was a devoted educator, coach, and community leader whose lifelong commitment to youth empowerment made a lasting impact in Daytona Beach, Florida. As a proud Bethune-Cookman University graduate and alumna, she demonstrated excellence both academically and athletically as a basketball player at BCU and Campbell High School. She was also honored as Miss BCU Homecoming in 1958.
Mrs. Marshall served as a basketball coach and Dean of Students at Spruce Creek High School, where she was respected for her leadership, discipline and genuine care for student success. Beyond athletics, she sponsored and trained the Spruce Creek Majorettes and the Spartan Dolls of Campbell Middle School. She also formed and led her own dance group, the Bessie Marshall Dancers, providing students with opportunities for growth, confidence and artistic expression.
Her service went above and beyond her professional role. She supported Bethune-Cookman University football and traveled with the Creamy Hayes group. Through teaching, coaching and counseling, she encouraged excellence in the youth of Daytona Beach and served as a powerful example for young people of color and all students she worked with.
Louise "Mutt-t" McGill
Sunrise - Oct. 21, 1924
Sunset - Jan. 18, 2016
Louise McGill was a beloved entrepreneur, community leader and church servant whose generosity and commitment to service made her a pillar of the Daytona Beach community. Known for her warm spirit and tireless work ethic, McGill was widely respected for ensuring that no one who crossed her path was left hungry or unsupported.
McGill believed deeply that no one should go without a meal. As the longtime owner of Mutt’s Soul Food House Restaurant, which she operated for more than 20 years, she fed the community regardless of a person’s ability to pay. Her restaurant became a place of nourishment, comfort and connection, reflecting her love for cooking and her dedication to caring for others.
In addition to her restaurant, McGill worked in real estate and managed a dry-cleaning business, where she personally handled the pickup and delivery of clothing. She consistently took on additional responsibilities whenever there was a need, demonstrating her willingness to serve beyond expectation.
McGill was also a gifted and trusted fundraiser. When individuals or organizations needed to raise money, she was often the first person called. Her leadership and organizational skills made her the most successful fundraiser in the history of Mount Bethel Baptist Institutional Church, where she was recognized as the winningest Tribe leader in church history.
Well known and respected by leaders of the NAACP, Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Inc., city officials and county judges, McGill bridged faith, business and community service with ease. She was honored as a Community “Shero” for her lasting impact and unwavering dedication. Louise McGill’s legacy is one of compassion, leadership and service, rooted in the belief that caring for people is the highest calling.
Robert “Pops” Lee Popwell
Sunrise - Dec. 29, 1950
Sunset - Nov. 27, 2017
Robert “Pops” Popwell was an internationally respected bassist, composer and session musician whose career helped define the sound of jazz, funk and R&B in the 1970s. Born and raised in Daytona Beach, he began his musical journey as a music major at Bethune-Cookman College and rose from local roots on South MLK Boulevard to perform and record with legendary artists including Aretha Franklin, B.B. King, Bob Dylan, The Rascals and The Crusaders.
Popwell addressed the need for African American representation on the world stage. At a time when Black musicians often faced barriers to opportunity and recognition, he built a career that proved talent from Daytona Beach could have global influence. By excelling across genres, he created pathways for other Black musicians and demonstrated that artistry could transcend race, genre and geography.
As a performer and recording artist, Popwell became an international ambassador for Daytona Beach’s Black musical heritage. His work on hits like Aretha Franklin’s Rock Steady and The Crusaders’ Street Life left a lasting mark on popular music. He carried his roots into every performance, honoring and elevating the cultural legacy of his community.
Popwell’s contributions went beyond performance. As a member of the Macon Rhythm Section, Capricorn Records’ house band, he helped shape the sound of Southern soul and funk, playing on recordings for Doris Duke, Johnny Jenkins and others. He co-wrote Feelin’ Funky with The Crusaders and contributed to their crossover success in the 1970s. His versatility also led him to tour with Bette Midler and Olivia Newton-John and appear in the Rick Springfield film Hard to Hold.
Popwell was widely respected as a cultural leader and collaborator in the music industry. Known as a “musician’s musician,” he bridged genres, artists and audiences, leaving a legacy of creativity, excellence and pride.
Levi "Lee" Sims Sr.
Sunrise - Aug. 26, 1903
Sunset - Feb. 26, 1991
Levi “Lee” Sims Sr. was a lifelong Daytona Beach resident whose artistry, generosity and service left a lasting mark on the community. A native of Sanford, Florida, Sims moved to Daytona Beach as a child and was educated in the city’s public schools. He was a classmate and lifelong friend of renowned theologian Dr. Howard W. Thurman. Sims was widely known as a grave headstone artisan, craftsman, painter and carpenter, and he also served as one of the original City of Daytona bus drivers.
Sims addressed a critical and deeply personal need within the African American community during the era of segregation. Prior to 1923, many segregated cemeteries lacked marked graves or meaningful memorials for Black families. For more than 60 years, Sims designed and handcrafted distinctive grave markers and headstones for families in cemeteries such as Mount Ararat, Sunset Memorial Park and Sunset Park. His work provided dignity, beauty and remembrance for loved ones who otherwise might have been memorialized only by temporary markers.
Drawing inspiration from African traditions, Sims sculpted concrete slabs that covered the length of caskets and incorporated seashells, tile fragments and pebbles into simple yet striking designs. He whitewashed each grave and often added thoughtful details such as tilted head rests shaped like pillows, iron holders for flowers and small sacred statues upon request. His artistry transformed segregated cemeteries into spaces of beauty and reflection and attracted the attention of journalists, including features published in 1988 and 1989 by the Daytona Beach News-Journal and The Florida Magazine.
Beyond his artistic contributions, Sims was known as a devoted humanitarian who gave freely of his time and resources. He painted and repaired homes, businesses and churches in Black neighborhoods and frequently donated plants and flowers for church events, weddings and school ceremonies. Alongside his wife, he supported children at Mother Hunt’s Orphanage Home by donating clothing and necessities. He regularly traveled to Sanford to gather fresh produce, which he distributed freely to families in local housing communities.
Sims was equally known for his personal acts of kindness. An accomplished cook, he often prepared meals and delivered them by bicycle or station wagon to elderly friends and neighbors in Mount Bethel, New Town and Midway. Every act of service was offered without charge and without expectation of recognition. His giving spirit reflected a deep faith and a belief in caring for others simply because it was right.
A faithful member of Mount Bethel Baptist Institutional Church, Sims served under 14 pastors and three interim pastors over more than 66 years. His long-standing dedication made him a trusted leader within the church and the broader community. Admired for his dependability, humility and compassion, Sims was respected by all who knew him. His enduring friendship with Dr. Howard W. Thurman reflected shared values of service, faith and love for humanity. Sims’ life remains a powerful example of quiet leadership, creativity and selfless devotion to community.
Loretta Osgood Wright
Sunrise - Sep. 29, 1926
Sunset - April 16, 2014
Loretta Wright is a respected educator, librarian and community leader whose service has strengthened education and uplifted families throughout Daytona Beach. Her extensive civic involvement includes active membership and leadership in Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Inc., the National Council of Negro Women, the NAACP and Phi Delta Kappa, an international professional sorority for African American women in education.
Wright devoted her professional career to education and literacy. As a librarian at Bonner Elementary School, she fostered a love of reading and learning among students. She later advanced to a county-level librarian position, where she supported teachers by providing instructional resources that enhanced classroom teaching and student achievement.
Recognizing the importance of early engagement and responsibility, Wright established a program that trained students to serve as library assistants. Through this initiative, children learned the Dewey Decimal System and gained a working knowledge of library operations, building confidence, leadership skills and academic discipline.
Wright also addressed critical needs within the community, including homelessness, hunger and clothing insecurity. Through partnerships with local organizations, particularly Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Inc., she helped coordinate services and resources for residents facing economic hardship in Daytona Beach.
Her service extended beyond professional responsibilities. Wright served as president of the National Council of Negro Women and president of Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Inc., and held the role of secretary of the NAACP. Driven by her commitment to ensuring students read above grade level, she founded a book club at Bonner Elementary School that created a nurturing environment for literacy development and academic growth.
Widely regarded as a valued leader, Wright is recognized for her strategic vision, collaborative spirit and dedication to service. Her ability to transform ideas into impactful programs has left a lasting imprint on education, community partnerships and the lives of those she has served.