Lynn R. Washington

The Life of Lynn R. Washington

Lynn Renee (Hamer) Washington was born July 1,1973 to Lean Hamer and Otis White in Sunflower County. She grew up in Ruleville, MS in the home with her loving grandmother, Mary (Moochie) Moore. She accepted Christ at an early age, as a member of New Jerusalem M.B. Church, where she sang in the youth choir. She later united with the Greater New Kingdom M.B. church in Cleveland, MS. 

Lynn was a bright scholar, she graduated from Ruleville Central High in 1991 with Honors. Lynn continued her educational pursuits at Tougaloo College from 1991 to 1993 and was a member of the national guard during that time. She transferred to Delta State University where she graduated in 1999 with her Bachelors of Science in Social Studies. Lynn was passionate about education and began her career in the Sunflower County School District, where she positively impacted the lives of many students for a decade. She went on to train and mentor, both scholars and educators as a GED and drug and alcohol counselor at Parchman Correction Facility, a tutor for Gear-up MS and Delta Rural Systemic Initiative, a Coordinator for Teach for America, and ended her career as the Director of Operations at Rosedale Freedom Project. 

Lynn was a devoted wife, mother, and grandmother. She was united in holy matrimony to Oliver Washington Sr. Together in this union they raised four children Taketta Cannon, Dr. Aurora M. Washington, Oliver Washington Jr, and Omar Washington. Lynn enjoyed spending time with her family, cooking, dancing, and studying her Bible.

Above all, Lynn was a pillar of strength and love for her family. Her unwavering support, gentle guidance, and unconditional love enriched the lives of her children.  She leaves to cherish her loving memories her husband Oliver Washington Sr.; two daughters: Taketta (Nathan) Cannon, and Dr. Aurora M Washington; two sons: Oliver Washington Jr., and Omar Washington. She was blessed with 4 grandchildren: Kailyn Cannon, Nyla Cannon, Makiya Washington, and Kylie Bolden. Lynn is also survived by her mother: Lean Hamer- Black, father: Otis White, siblings: Eternia (Robert) Hunter, Tamara Washington, Niagra White, Fatesia (Michael) Shumpert, Tamiya Pitts, Trevino (Tiesha) Hamer, Patrick (Juanita) Jackson, Otis (Casonya) Whiter Jr., Ezekial White, and Uriah White; and a host of nieces and nephews. 

Lynn was cherished by many, including those who proceeded her in death, her grandmother Mary (Moochie) Moore, and her sisters Priscilla White and Candida White.

Lynn's warmth and generosity extended beyond her family, touching the lives of countless others in her community. Her unselfish spirit and willingness to lend a helping hand endeared her to all who crossed her path. In the words of her great aunt and hometown hero, Mrs. Fannie Lou Hamer 

“Never forget where we came from and always praise the bridges that carried you over.”

This is a sentiment Lynn embodied in her career, community building, advocacy, and relationships. Though Lynn may no longer walk among us, her spirit will continue to live on in the hearts and the memories of those who were fortunate enough to know her.

Thank you to those who took special care of Lynn during her last days her mom Lean (Sister) Hamer, Latanya Calhoun, Jamesia Williams, and Eternia Hamer- Hunter.