MCRAE, SR, ZIN OSMON - Ouachita County, Arkansas | ZIN OSMON MCRAE, SR - Arkansas Gravestone Photos

Zin Osmon MCRAE, SR

Eternal Rest (African American) Cemetery
Ouachita County,
Arkansas

July 7, 1917 - March 21, 2013

A dedicated servant of the Lord with an indomitable spirit and heart of gold, Zin Osmon McRae, Sr. was born on July 7, 1917. He was the first son of Mr. Jessie Clayborn McRae and Mrs. Mamie Morgan McRae. He was united in holy matrimony to Mrs. Flora Dean Gaston McRae on Oct. 5, 1940 and to this union four children were born.

The importance of education was instilled in him by his parents. He graduated from high school in Camden, received his bachelor's degree from AM&N College-now known as the University of Arkansas at Pine bluff. He continued his post graduate studies at several colleges and universities. He was a proud veteran of the United States Army after serving in World War II. Following his father's footsteps as a professor, he begin his career in education serving as the principal ofthe Chidester, Hermitage and Bearden School Districts. He also taught in the Idabel, Oklahoma School District for two years.

His career in education was interrupted when he was offered the position as the director of the Housing Authority of the City of Camden. As the first man of his persuasion to hold a similar position in this community, this platform gave him the opportunity to break down barriers of race and inequality. Because education was his first love, he later returned to the Camden School District until his retirement in 1982. Her served as a educator for the combined total of 37 years. Being a vigorous public servant, he was an elected councilman for more than 10 years. Mr. McRae was also a comissioned deputy sheriff of Ouachita County and a justice of the peace. He was also a member of the Elks Lodge and was recognized as a 32nd Mason.

He was a proud member of Greater St. Paul Baptist Church where he served as a deacon, Sunday school superintendent, Sunday school teacher, and on several committees and boards. He has received many tributes, honors and acknowledgments for his service in all facets of his life. Mr. Zin Osmon McRae Sr. made his transition to be with the Lord on March 21, 2013.

He was preceded in death by his parents; loving wife; son, Zin Osmon McRae, Jr.; brother, Mose Alexander McRae; and a great-granddaughter, Parker Reese Washington.

With pleasant memories to cherish and treasure, he is survived by his devoted daughters, Arvis Ann (Ridgely) McGhee, Zinnette McRae Lamb, and Floretta (Junious) Babbs; eight grandchildren; four great-grandchildren; and a host of loving relatives and a abundant number of friends.

Williams Funeral Home of Camden is in charge of the arrangements.

Funeral services will be held at 11:00 am Thursday, March 28, at Greater St. Paul Baptist Church with Dr. George E. Smith officiating. Burial will be at Eternal Rest Cemetery in Chidester.

Contributed on 5/10/21 by debbraszymanski
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Record #: 1373130

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Submitted: 5/10/21 • Approved: 5/12/21 • Last Updated: 6/29/23 • R1373130-G0-S3

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