How old are you? 96
Where were you born? Bloomfield, NJ
When did you move to Montclair? 1935
Why did you move to Montclair? My parents purchased a home.
Are you currently employed? If so, doing what? If you had a career, what was it? A few years after graduating from Montclair High School in 1939, I enlisted in the U.S. Air Force. Served most of my time with B17 Aircraft as a propeller and instrument specialist. I studied watch repair and continued the trade after I was discharged in 1945. I worked for 27 years for Henke’s Jewelry, Wiss Jewelry, Bailey Banks & Biddle, Jeweler’s Bench, Marcus Jewelry, etc. Ending my 60 years’ career at Michael Anthony & Co. in Wayne, NJ. During that time my wife Maurice, sons and grandsons, plus many friends worked at Debnam Caterers. We did many weddings, birthday, gala’s etc. in Essex county for about 60 years. Now I am currently retired alongside with my wife Maurice.
How have you been engaged in the community? Choir member and superintendent of Sunday School at St. Paul’s Baptist Church. Member of the Committee of Management of the Washington St. YMCA. I was the first Black Member and later president of the Montclair Kiwanis Club. I am a member for 53 years of Eureka Lodge #52 of Montclair. My wife and I are lifetime members of the Montclair NAACP. Member of American Legion post 251 Montclair. I have earned plaques on Glenfield Wall of Fame for our catering business. I am one of the Grand Marshalls for 2017 MAAHF (Montclair African American Heritage Foundation) Parade. Member of the Friends of New Jersey and Do-Drop Inn (Glenfield Park). None of this could have been accomplished without my hard working and dedicated wife Maurice.
What are some of the most important lessons you feel you have learned throughout your life? Respect all people. Try to be the best at what you do. Push for education for all young people.
What is your mantra or words you live by? If you can’t say something nice about someone, don’t say anything.
What are your plans for future? How does Montclair fit into these plans? At 96 years old, wife of 93 years old, married 72+ years. The future belongs to God. Pay taxes.