Of course, it’s the people that make Savannah what it is – the great, talented, selfless and indescribable. Unfortunately, they are not with us forever. This new column is mean to highlight those who have passed.
By Eric Curl
April 14, 2025 – Unfortunately, the “angel of death has been really busy” in Savannah lately, as Savannah City Council member Linda Wilder-Bryan stated at the end of last week’s meeting, when she and other council members noted some of the community members we recently lost. There was not enough time to give these lives the attention they deserve (the sun sometimes sets too fast), but I thought they warranted at least some mention – with the hope more stories and details will come. When they do, this column will be updated. – Eric Curl
Rosemary Banks, who passed on March 29, 2025, at age 83, was a lifelong advocate for neighborhood preservation, youth opportunity, and civic engagement.
Read an oral history interview when Banks reflects on life in Savannah’s Eastside and Benjamin Van Clark neighborhoods
Early Wayne Bland, who died peacefully in his sleep on April 1 at the age of 83, leaves behind a legacy of compassion and service as co-founder of Recovery Place, an outpatient addiction treatment center that has helped thousands in the region since 1985.
Savannah City Council Kurtis Purtee said during last week’s meeting that Bland was a fellow church member and “force to be reckoned with in the community.”
Charles Leroy Gordon, who passed on March 29 at age 82, was a community builder and founding member of the 100 Black Men of Savannah, an organization rooted in mentorship, service, and empowerment.
In an Instagram post, Antwan Lang described Gordon as a “true pillar of the community”, as well as a devoted husband, loving father, and an unwavering leader.”
“His impact on Savannah is immeasurable, and his legacy of service and leadership will continue to inspire generations,” Lang said.
Rev. Franklin Daniel Blackshear, longtime pastor of Mt. Tabor Baptist Church, passed on March 26 at age 89. A revered preacher, educator, and mentor, Rev. Blackshear led his congregation for over four decades and nurtured countless lives in the community.
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