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For about three years now, the Magee Cemetery Committee has quietly gone about the business of making a difference. If you haven’t visited the Magee City Cemetery lately, you really should. I think you’ll be pleasantly surprised.
The first thing you’ll notice is the beautiful display of flags at the entrance. Then your eyes will be drawn to the flower beds, which are filled with colorful blooms. It is a peaceful, welcoming place—exactly what a cemetery should be.
What many people don’t realize is that so much of this work is done by volunteers who simply have a heart for service. No one receives compensation. They aren’t looking for recognition or praise. They simply believe those who came before us deserve a place that reflects the love and respect of our community.
Our committee is made up of Tawesia Meador, Jason Ratcliffe, Joy Harris, Lyndell Cockrell, Ronnie Rankin, Jane Everett, Ricky Anderson, and me, Sue Honea, serving as chairman. Every member brings something unique to the table, and I truly couldn’t ask for a better group of people.
Lyndell Cockrell lovingly creates the beautiful seasonal wreaths that greet visitors at the front of the cemetery throughout the year. Tawesia Meador serves as our faithful secretary and researcher. Whatever project we tackle, Tawesia is already one step ahead, gathering information and keeping us organized.
Rickey Anderson, I can promise you the cemetery wouldn’t function without him. He keeps everything watered, watches over the grounds, and lets us know when something needs attention. He is our eyes and ears at the cemetery.
Joy Harris is our historian. Her knowledge of the families and individuals buried in the City Cemetery is remarkable. She helps preserve the stories behind the names, making our history come alive.
Ronnie Rankin is our “just tell me what you need” volunteer. No matter the project, Ronnie is always ready to lend a helping hand with a smile.
Jason Ratcliffe has always taken the lead when it comes to cleanup. He is quick to let us know about fallen limbs, overgrown areas, or anything else needing attention. Although a change in our meeting schedule keeps him from attending as often as he once did, Jason continues to stay involved and is always willing to help whenever needed.
Jane Everett supports every project we undertake. She is a faithful member !..and keeps us entertained!
As chairman, I truly am blessed. Y’all, these are some of the finest people you’ll ever meet. They care deeply about our community, our history, and the families who come to visit their loved ones.
I also want to express sincere appreciation to Bruce Lewis and Hal Berry for their generous donations of plants and labor that have helped make the flower beds so beautiful. Their kindness has added so much to the appearance of the cemetery.
If you haven’t driven through the Magee City Cemetery lately, take a few minutes to do so. Walk among the flowers, notice the care that’s been given, and spend a moment reflecting on the lives of those who helped build our community. I believe you’ll leave with a renewed appreciation for this special place.
If you would like to help continue these improvements, donations to the Cemetery Fund are always welcome. Simply make your check payable to the City of Magee and write “Cemetery Fund” on the memo line. While donations are not tax-deductible, every contribution helps preserve one of our city’s most treasured places—and that is a gift that benefits us all.
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