The Rev. Cleveland Jones was a quiet man, so quiet that most who knew him were unaware of the decoration he won during World War II, a Bronze Star.
But that was his nature. Most of us knew him as pastor of Mount Zion Missionary Baptist Church for 52 years, a span of faith and service which metaphorically fit the World War II book, From Here to Eternity.
His talents equipped him for national leadership through 35 years as director of Christian Education for the National Baptist Association Inc.
The local community beyond Mount Zion felt his presence as a leader of the Community Enabler Developer, what is now the Department of Human Resources and the Regional Medical Center foundation.
His character, personality and civility were a lubricant that smoothed contact between leaders of both races during a tense time in local race relations. In COUL, the Committee of Unified Leadership, there were fiery advocates and a few who looked out from masks of icy cynicism. The approach of Cleveland Jones made you smile because it always, always portended conviction, yes, but certainty expressed with light and warmth.
He was a quiet warrior.
— H.B.A.
About our editorial page
Address letters to Speak Out, The Anniston Star, P.O. Box 189, Anniston, AL 36202. Please limit letters to 200 words. Letters may be edited for length, libel and taste. All letters are confirmed with the author before publication.
