CELEBRATING BLACK HISTORY
BLACK HISTORY MOMENT 2026: UNSUNG HEROS
BETTY MADDOX
Betty J. Maddox, born February 4, 1943, was the eldest of four siblings in the Jessie Family and grew up under the care of her mother, Susie Harris Jessie. Academically gifted, Betty skipped first to third grade. After moving from Fort Valley to Columbus, Georgia, she attended Claflin Elementary and Spencer schools, graduating in the top 10 of her class in 1960. She then studied English at Morris Brown College in Atlanta, worked at her uncle's business school office, and was a cheerleader throughout college.
Betty and Aubrey's vocal talents earned them positions as Principle Members of The Atlanta Community Gospel Choir, where Betty became its inaugural president. Their performances spanned Georgia and reached cities and states nationwide, including a memorable musical showcase highlighting the history of Black Gospel Music.
With more than twenty-three years in education, Betty mostly taught Advanced Placement English and worked with other academically gifted students. She was recognized as one of Who's Who Among America's Teachers and received Teacher of the Year honors, along with several distinguished teaching awards. She also served as the Coach of Forensics (Debate) for Harper High School. Although initially unqualified for this role, aside from helping seniors prepare graduation speeches, she approached it with concern but accepted the challenge wholeheartedly. Lacking prior experience, Betty resolved to do her very best, and this determination propelled her career to remarkable new heights.
Emory University sought to foster collaboration with Atlanta Public Schools in Forensics and Debate, leading Melissa Wade to reach out to principals to select school representatives. Coaches were invited to a summer camp designed to help them acquire necessary skills. Betty began researching the district's involvement and found that only about three of the eleven schools participated. Motivated by this discovery, she encouraged colleagues in various schools to join her in embracing this opportunity.
Betty's coaching led her students to win numerous awards and receive invitations to various Summer Institutes. She worked for several years at institutes in Miami, Vermont, and Iowa. These experiences enhanced everyone's skills, helping some students secure jobs in major states after graduating. When two students were accepted to an institute in Iowa, Betty was invited as well and traveled there to assist with the Coaches Institute. We were all soooo blessed!!!!!!!!!!!!! Because the Director of the Barkley Forum at Emory University was so impressed with one of Betty’s debaters, as she was preparing to retire soon, she stayed long enough for him to complete his college studies and hired him. He accepted that position at Emory with the Barkley Forum’. She was so thankful that Betty Maddox had taken on that challenge for them all!!!
Maddox supported her hometown, Columbus, GA, through her brother Rev. Richard A. Jessie, a community activist focused on local youth, especially junior and senior high school students. Through Emory, she also helped establish both the Atlanta and Columbus Urban Debate Leagues.
Two other aspects of her life are VERY important to her. In fact, it is through their SPECIAL positions in her life that she developed the concerns for those shared herein. Aubrey and Betty have three SPECIAL children: talented and gifted. Just as important- their willingness to share with others. Tazanya was gifted with a SPECIAL voice and SPIRIT. In high school, she was a cheerleader and participated in talent shows and other activities, as often as her health allowed and she was a member of the National Honor Society throughout. She died at eighteen years of age from leukemia. She achieved her five-year goal of becoming Valedictorian and always cared deeply about others. Eric, the oldest, also had a talent for singing and an anointed gift as an artist. He enjoyed working with children. He was the first African American Composite Artist for the Atlanta Police Department and he, too, enjoyed working with children. He was the Principal Founder of VISIONS Ministry at Ben Hill UMC, where he also worked with Boys R.I.S.E. and sang with the C. L. Henderson Male Chorus. Eric was led to birth his own Graphic Arts business as well. Kirk, who also sang with the Male Chorus, loved working with children and was a Elementary School teacher and his school's academic team sponsor. He generously helped those whose families couldn't afford proper clothing or grooming.
All three of the Maddox Children now sing from Heaven's Gates. Aubrey and Betty close out the "We 5 Maddoxes who are also singers. Their spiritual lives and church involvement are SPECIAL to her, too. Active now as Prayer Visionary Chair, with past responsibilities as: Sanctuary and Majestic Choir President of each, Family Ministries Chair (with Husband Aubrey), United Methodist Women President, Associate Lay Leader of Ben Hill UMC, UMW, District Committee, and Girls R.I.S.E. Chairperson. Betty authored two books sharing her family's blessings and challenges: She Graduated Early, from Earth to Glory, chronicling Tazanya's journey through the hills and valleys of leukemia and, Oh, to Be Kept by Jesus, which shares the total family's journey under the protection of God in the name of Christ Jesus.
AUBREY R. MADDOX
Aubrey Refearce Maddox, born June 7, 1941, was recognized early for his talent and wisdom. He graduated from Turner High School in Atlanta at fifteen, attended Morehouse College, then Morris Brown College, before joining the Air Force with his parents' support. His basketball abilities earned him a spot on the Air Force team, leading to travel and media attention, including coverage in his hometown papers.
Upon completion of his military duties, Aubrey again enrolled at Morris Brown College and was recruited by the basketball coach, resulting in his joining Morris Brown's team. Although his skills were still impressive, after his first year at Morris Brown, having met the young lady who would become his wife, he again left Brown, this time for the world of work at the Ford Motor Company in Hapeville, Georgia as an assembly line employee, retiring from Ford in 1998, after thirty-four years of employment. In the early 1990s, he was promoted from the Assembly Line to an office position in Quality Control.
Now in their sixty-first year of marriage, the couple had three children: Eric Maurice, Kirk Jermaine, and Tazanya DeAnn. The family often traveled to Florida and Mississippi beaches—memories that became even more precious after the loss of their daughter Tazanya to leukemia at age 18. Church activities also played a central role, with all family members participating in choir ministries and serving in various leadership positions such as Family Ministries Chairs, Trustee Board, and S.P.R.C. Chairperson.
in New York at Ford's 1997 Anniversary and Car Show, Aubrey sang, "Stand By Me".
Many significant events unfolded in Aubrey Maddox’s life around the time of his promotion at Ford Motor Company. During this period, the passing of a co-worker created an unexpected opportunity: Aubrey was invited to sing at the funeral. His performance revealed his remarkable vocal talent to his supervisors, who were greatly impressed. Recognizing his gifted voice, they selected Aubrey to represent Ford Motor Company at events where musical performances were desired.
This recognition led to a series of notable appearances. Aubrey was invited to join Channel 5 for a segment on "Good Day Atlanta," where he performed “Georgia on My Mind.” His rendition was so well received that he was subsequently asked to sing again at the Atlanta 500 Speedway. In addition, his reputation as a talented vocalist brought him to New York, where he performed “Stand By Me” during Ford’s 1997 Anniversary and Car Show. These experiences not only highlighted Aubrey’s musical abilities but also allowed him to serve as an ambassador for Ford Motor Company through his voice.
After retiring from Ford, Aubrey Maddox applied his math skills as a Tax Preparer, offering affordable services while earning income. The Maddox Family is grateful for the support of Ben Hill United Methodist Church and hopes their contributions—through music and leadership—have been a blessing as well.
HELEN CARITHERS
Helen Carithers, born and raised in Atlanta, Georgia, attended Luther J. Price High School from 1960 to 1962, where she earned a Distinctive Diploma with Honors. Pursuing higher education, she enrolled at Spelman College in Atlanta from 1962 to 1966 and graduated with a Bachelor of Arts degree, majoring in Biology and minoring in Chemistry and Secondary Education. Helen’s academic achievements were recognized through several honors and scholarships, including the $3,000 Merrill Foreign Study award, induction into Who’s Who in American Colleges and Universities for 1965 and 1966, and the J. Louise Fowler Full Tuition Scholarship.
In addition to her academic achievements, Helen Carithers served as Dormitory Counselor, Vice-President for both the Sophomore and Junior Classes, and President of the Biology Club. Her studies continued internationally from 1966 to 1967 at the University of Vienna in Austria, where she participated in the Institute of European Studies and completed 30 hours of Liberal Arts courses. Carithers later earned a Master of Arts in Teaching (MAT) degree from Vanderbilt University in Nashville, TN, from 1969 to 1971. Between 1979 and 1981, Helen pursued additional education courses at Georgia State University in Atlanta, which led to Life Certification in Instructional Supervision (IS-5).
Over the course of a distinguished 35-year career in education, Helen dedicated her professional life to Atlanta Public Schools. Returning to her Alma Mater, Luther J. Price High School, where she taught science from 1967 to 1969. She continued her commitment to teaching and educational leadership at Southwest High School and the Area 1 Office from 1970 to 1981. During this period, Ms. Carithers served as an Independent Studies Advisor and Data Collector, taught Human Physiology, and held the position of Science Department Chairperson.
Helen later in 1976–1977, expanded her expertise as a Curriculum Writer for Science and Engineering at the National Coordinating Center for Curriculum Development (NCCCD), affiliated with the State University of New York, Stony Brook focusing on developing innovative courses for high schools. From 1981 until retirement in June 2003, she served as the Instructional Coordinator for the Benjamin E. Mays Academy of Science and Mathematics at Benjamin E. Mays High School in Atlanta. Her commitment to advancing science education for underrepresented groups led to various roles with the Southeastern Consortium for Minorities in Engineering (SECME). As a Master Teacher at the Georgia Institute of Technology (1982) and the University of Georgia (1984), Carithers helped develop and teach summer technological institutes. She also contributed as a curriculum writer and consultant at the University of Alabama in Huntsville (1985), and as a Master Teacher for SECME's Tools for Teachers program in 1989.
Helen Carithers retired in June 2003, having impacted countless students and educators through her dedication to science, curriculum development, and instructional leadership.
Throughout life, she had the privilege of traveling extensively both internationally and within the United States. Traveling across Europe and the Americas, including visits to Austria, England, Yugoslavia, Belgium, Italy, Hungary, Greece, Germany, France, Czechoslovakia, St. Thomas, Virgin Islands, Mexico, Puerto Rico, Canada, and the Bahamas. In addition, she explored over 30 states across the U.S., enriching her perspective through diverse cultures and experiences.
Throughout her career, Helen was actively involved in numerous professional organizations and educational associations to include the National Science Teachers Association and the Georgia Science Teachers Association. Helen’s commitment to community and advocacy is reflected in her affiliations with the YWCA, NAACP, Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, and the Spelman Alumnae Association. Ms. Carithers served as a National Beta Club Advisor and contributed to Atlanta Minority Women in Science, Inc. In Georgia, she Sponsored the Science and Engineering Fair and the Science and Humanities Symposium and was a member of the Shenandoah Environment and Education Center Advisory Committee.
Helen supports minority opportunities as a member of the Quality Education for Minorities Network Steering Committee and the Spelman College Education Department Advisory Committee. She served as a Governor’s Honors Interviewer for Science and was a part of the National Education Association. Additionally, a member of the Georgia Association of Educators, Atlanta Retired Educators Association, and the Atlanta Association of Educators, where she served as Co-President. Her commitment to civic engagement extends to serving as Co-President of the Red Hat Society and being an active member of Ben Hill United Methodist Church.
Throughout her career, she has received several awards for her dedication to education and leadership, including Southwest High School Teacher of the Year (1976), Distinguished Service in Education (1984), and Distinguished Service in Administration (1985). She presented at National Science Teachers Association conventions in 1990 and 1996 and at NEA conferences from 1990 to 1997. Her commitment to students earned her the Benjamin E. Mays High School Yearbook Dedication in 1988 and 2001. She also served on the NC-TAP Board of Advisors from 1997 to 1998. Helen Carither was listed in Who’s Who Among American High School Teachers for 1995-1996 and recognized as one of the Personalities of the South by the American Biological Institute in 1981.
As an active and dedicated member of Ben Hill United Methodist Church, Ms. Carithers contributed significantly to various ministries and committees throughout the years. Helen’s commitment to spiritual growth and service is evident through her involvement with the Jewels & Partners Ministry and participation in the Coupled With Christ Sunday School. From 2005 to 2008, she served as a member of the SPRC Committee, helping to shape the church's direction and support its leadership. She played a vital role in educational initiatives as a member of the Ben Hill Academy Advisory Board and welcomed congregants as a Morning Greeter during the 1990s. Dedication to nurturing young members was demonstrated through her service as Sunday School Youth Superintendent during the same period.
Furthering Helen’s commitment to youth and education, she contributed to the Carolyn Hine Harris Scholarship Committee and served as Co-Chair for Women’s Day in 2005. As Retreat Coordinator from 2004 to 2018, she facilitated opportunities for spiritual renewal and fellowship within the church community. Helen Carithers continues to support Christian education through the Lunch & Learn Bible Study and have demonstrated leadership as Chair of the Black History Program, promoting cultural awareness and celebration within the congregation.
JIM MILLER
Jim Miller stands as a devoted servant-leader whose life reflects unwavering faith, steadfast commitment, and a profound dedication to community. A proud graduate of Henry McNeal Turner High School, Jim began his academic journey at Clark College—now Clark Atlanta University—where he played football and cultivated the discipline and teamwork that would shape his future endeavors. He later continued his undergraduate studies at Georgia State University, further strengthening the foundation for his professional and civic contributions.
Jim built a distinguished career in Sales and Marketing, later expanding his professional experience through impactful roles in the banking industry and the Atlanta Housing Authority. Throughout his career, he has consistently demonstrated integrity, excellence, and a heart for service.
For thirty-nine years, Jim has been a faithful and active member of Ben Hill United Methodist Church. He has held numerous leadership roles, including Chair of the first annual Church Council Conference; Vice Chair of the Church Council and Staff Parish Relations Committees; Co-Chair of the Building Committee; and member of both the Trustee Board and the Church Council. His commitment extends across ministries, having served with the Servants of Trinity Usher Team, the Men’s Usher Team, Communion Stewards, the C. L. Henderson Golf Classic, Health and Wellness, Brother to Brother, and the Jewels and Partners Ministries. Most recently, Jim played a key role on the United Methodist Men’s committee that secured funding for the church’s newly installed marquee—an achievement that will serve the congregation for years to come.
Jim’s dedication to service reaches beyond the walls of Ben Hill. He has served as president of the Marion Woods Homeowners Association, contributed to the Fulton County Cable Advisory Committee and the Fulton County Planning and Zoning Task Force, and served as campaign manager for a Fulton County Board of Education member who was successfully reelected four times.
Anchored by faith and guided by purpose, Jim has devoted his life to uplifting others and strengthening the communities he touches. He is supported in all things by his wife, Minnie Miller, and together they are the proud parents of a blended family of three daughters: LaTonya Harris, Jamille Miller-Brown, and Minikki Jenkins.
His legacy is one of faith in action, and his contributions continue to inspire all who have the privilege of knowing him.
