The First Homecoming

The first Homecoming was held at Macedonia Missionary Baptist Church on the fourth Sunday in April 1968. However, the history of this beloved tradition would be incomplete without acknowledging the events that led to this inaugural celebration.

Beginnings of the Macedonia Cemetery

Many years ago, the pioneering citizens of Long County joined together—combining their efforts, interests, and leadership—to secure a piece of land for the burial of their deceased loved ones. A beautiful and majestic site on lower Sandhill was chosen. It was later discovered that this land belonged to Deacon Tommie Hines, Sr., a man known for his kindness and generosity. He deeded the land for what would become the Macedonia Cemetery.

Preservation and Early Efforts

Over time, the cemetery fell into disrepair. Brother Harry Stevens rallied church and community members for a “Clean-Up Day” to restore and maintain the sacred grounds. He generously provided food and refreshments at his own expense and continued this tradition until he relocated to New York.

The Birth of Homecoming

In early 1968, Deacon T.A. McKinnies shared with Sister Mildred Elder his vision for a special program to raise funds for the cemetery’s upkeep. He invited his church family from Jacksonville, Florida, for the morning service. Sister Elder suggested inviting Reverend H. Clinton Boyd and Shiloh Baptist Church of Albany for the afternoon and proposed naming the event “Homecoming.” With support from Reverend John Clark and the church deacons, the first Homecoming was officially planned and celebrated. It marked the beginning of a cherished annual tradition.

Early Leadership

At the first Homecoming, the following officers were elected:

• Chairman: Deacon E.F. Boyd

• Secretary: Brother James “Sonny” Lewis, Sr.

• Financial Committee/Trustees: Deacon E.R. Quarterman, Deacon Clyde Boyd, and Brother James “Sonny” Lewis, Sr.

• Program Committee: Sister Mildred B. Elder, Sister Coretha Richardson, and Deacon T.A. McKinnies

Growth and Projects

• 1969: Brother Robert Harris became Chairman; cemetery fencing was planned. Deacon James Elder became Caretaker.

• 1970: Deacon McKinnies returned as Chairman; cemetery fencing was completed.

• 1972: First souvenir booklet published.

• 1978: A ten-year souvenir booklet was released.

• 1979: Brother T.J. Farlow succeeded Deacon McKinnies as Chairman. Deacon McKinnies became Vice Chairman and later Chairman Emeritus.

The 1980s: Strengthening Our Foundation

The 1980s were a time of reflection, growth, and legacy building. A monument was placed in the cemetery, with landscaping contributed by the Honeysuckle Garden Club. As beloved members passed on, others rose to carry on their mission. Sister Coretha Richardson, long-time supporter and secretary, was remembered fondly and succeeded by Sister Janice Richardson-Sanders.

New Trustees added:

• Deacon Albert Scott

• Deacon Sylvester Williams

1990s and 25th Anniversary

• 1992: Sister Diane Berry elected Correspondence Secretary; Sister Darnell R. Walker, Financial Secretary.
  A 25th Anniversary Souvenir Booklet was published and dedicated to Deacon Tommie Hines, Sr.

• 1997: Sister Darnell Walker and Sister Diane Berry served as Co-Chairpersons for the souvenir booklet, assisted by several members. The booklet honored Deacon Ernest F. Boyd and Brother James “Sonny” Lewis, Sr.

The 2000s: Enhancing the Grounds

During this decade, the third major project was launched: the cemetery was surveyed and burial plots were drawn. Efforts to beautify and preserve the grounds continued, underscoring the community’s commitment to honoring the past and preparing for the future.

Current Committee Members

Leadership & Trustees:

• Deacon Kenneth Murphy, Chairman

• Deacon Lamar Tillman, Trustee/Caretaker

• Sister Joyce Berry, Trustee

• Sister Carolyn Tillman, Trustee/Secretary

• Deacon Navey Johnson, Vice Chair Trustee

Food Committee:
Sisters Lena M. Rawls, Lizzie Lewis, Zephyrie Farlow, Joyce Berry, Loretta Coker, and Patricia Johnson

Additional Staff:

• Brother Harold Lewis, Trustee Staff

• Brother Adolphus Farlow, Hospitality Committee

In Loving Memory

We continue to pray for the ongoing success of this organization and dedicate each annual Homecoming to our deceased members, both named and unnamed, who helped build and sustain this legacy. Your memory lives on through our fellowship, our efforts, and our hearts.