Published: September 24, 2008 05:20 pm         

Pioneer Day set for Saturday, Oct. 11

Dorothy Massey and Willie Jones have been chosen to represent their community as Granny and Pappy during Pioneer Day on Oct. 11.

The traditional ceremonial passing of the bonnet and kerchief to honor these lifelong residents of Mayo was held at the Clerk of Courts office in the courthouse at 10 a.m. on Tuesday, Sept. 23. Judge Darren Jackson presided in the midst of a small crowd of witnesses.

Surrounded by their relatives, neighbors, friends and county officials, Massey and Jones smiled as last year's recipients, Minnie and Buck Hatch, placed the bonnet and kerchief upon them.

Massey is the daughter of the late Dunk and Ida Williams. She was employed by the Lafayette County School System for 33 years. She was married to the late William Massey Jr., for 43 years, with whom she had five children. They were blessed with six grandchildren and one great-grandchild.

Jones, born in 1930, has been a farmer all his life. He is also a member of the Little Galilee Church in Mayo. His family was blessed with nine children, 50 grandchildren and 28 great-grandchildren.

Massey and Jones will be featured in the Pioneer Day parade on Saturday, Oct. 11.

The Lafayette County of Chamber of Commerce encourages the public to greet Massey and Jones and show them your appreciation as they walk throughout the park on Pioneer Day.

     

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