A street sign dedication ceremony honoring Rev. C.J. Carson Jr. was held October 4, 2025, at Hays Creek Missionary Baptist Church, 503 South Union Street.
Rev. Carson, a 1932 graduate of Alcorn A&M College (now Alcorn State University), dedicated his life to education and ministry throughout Mississippi. He taught in the Winona Public School System and served as chaplain for the Alcorn State University Alumni Association and Dean of the Mississippi Baptist Congress of Christian Education.
Throughout his ministry, Rev. Carson pastored several churches including First Baptist Church in Kosciusko, Green Grove Baptist Church in Marks, and Mt. Union Baptist in Eupora. He served as pastor of Hays Creek Missionary Baptist Church in Winona for 35 years and was an officer with the Zion District Association.
The dedication ceremony featured opening remarks by Dr. Thelma Purnell-Bibbs, his granddaughter, with additional tributes from Rev. Hemphill, Mrs. Annie Rodgers, and Rev. J. Sawyer. Great-grandson Carson Bibbs unveiled the memorial sign, and granddaughter Ms. Leveda "Marcia" Purnell offered closing remarks.
The family of Rev. C.J. Carson Jr. expressed gratitude to Mayor Flowers, City Clerk Tracy Holcomb and staff, and the City of Winona for providing the memorial marker.
