MS SC580

Pays tribute to Reverend Dr. David Matthews of Sunflower County on the occasion of "Senior Citizens Day at the New Capitol" on February 24, 2015, recognizing his civic and Christian leadership and legacy.

Dr. Matthews, age 95, was born January 29, 1920, and is a graduate of Morehouse College where he was a schoolmate of Martin Luther King, Jr., making him the first graduate from Indianola Colored High to attend Morehouse.

His achievements include 62 years as pastor of Bell Grove Baptist Church, 33 years as a schoolteacher (25 at Gentry High), President of General Missionary Baptist State Convention of Mississippi for 24 years, and Vice President of National Baptist Convention U.S.A., Inc. for 23 years.

Dr. Matthews served as the first Black Democratic Election Commissioner and first Black Deputy Chancery Clerk of Sunflower County, served on two Governors' commissions, met with Presidents Ford and Clinton (dining at the White House), and received three honorary doctorate degrees.

At age 86 in 2006, Dr. Matthews constructed a $2 million church edifice and is survived by his wife of 62 years, one daughter, five grandchildren, and multiple nieces and nephews.