ambus arrington
1916-1971
Life Story
A Life of Faith, Service, and Family in the Altare Tradition
Early Life and Family Heritage
Ambus Arrington was born on January 6, 1916, in Newton County, Mississippi, to Henry Arrington (1891–1988) and Isabella Walker Arrington (1895–1961). He was the paternal grandson of Burrell Arrington (1854–?) and Angeline Chapman (1862–?), and the maternal grandson of Emanuel Walker (1850–1926) and Melinda Evans (1866–?)—families whose roots were deeply intertwined with the early development of the Altare community.
Growing up in Altare, Ambus was surrounded by the strong family and church traditions that defined the community. He attended the Altare Colored School, completing the sixth grade, where he cultivated a love for learning despite the limited resources available in segregated rural schools. From an early age, he contributed to the family’s livelihood by working about 18 hours per week as an unpaid farm laborer, helping to maintain the land that had sustained his family for generations.
World War II Service
At twenty-four years old, Ambus registered for the World War II draft, answering the call to serve his country during a time of profound global conflict. On January 7, 1942, he enlisted in the U.S. Army and was stationed at Camp Shelby in Hattiesburg, Mississippi, a major training site for soldiers preparing to serve overseas.
During his service, Ambus underwent rigorous training, developing discipline, leadership, and camaraderie with fellow servicemen. His time in uniform forged enduring bonds and left an indelible mark on his character. After serving honorably, he was discharged on November 1, 1945, returning to Newton County with a renewed sense of purpose and pride. His military experience became a lifelong source of strength and respect among his peers.
Marriage and Family
In the late 1940s, Ambus married Alma Loper (1917–2006), forming a devoted partnership rooted in shared faith and perseverance. From this union, three children were born:
- Pecolia Arrington (1947–?)
- Betty Lue Arrington (1949–?)
- Mary Dean Arrington (1950–1997)
Ambus was also the father of Melvin Evans (1938–1996), born from his earlier relationship with Mattie Mae Norman Evans (1916–2002). Together, these connections wove a rich tapestry of kinship linking the Arrington, Walker, Evans, and Loper families—four of the most historically significant lineages within the Altare community.
Faith and Community Involvement
In 1961, Ambus joined the Church of God in Christ in Newton, where he became an active and faithful member. His involvement reflected a lifelong commitment to spiritual growth and community service. He participated in worship, assisted with church activities, and offered encouragement to others, embodying the values of faith, humility, and perseverance that had guided his ancestors.
As his health declined in later years, Ambus continued to draw strength from his faith. Though he could no longer attend services regularly, he remained in close fellowship with his church family. A proud veteran, he received care at the VA Hospital in Jackson, Mississippi, where staff members recognized him not only for his service but for his gentle spirit and gratitude.
Passing and Legacy
On October 9, 1971, Ambus passed away following a brief illness, closing a life defined by faith, service, and devotion to family. His survivors include his wife, Alma, their three children, and his son Melvin Evans. He was also survived by his siblings: Mrs. Cora Lee Chapman of Newton; Mrs. Mildred Carroll of Flint, Michigan; Mrs. Sadie Rigsby of Chicago, Illinois; Mrs. Mary Lou Towner of Decatur; and brothers Herbert, Purvis, Wardell, and Curtis Arrington, all of Newton; and Charlie Arrington of Dallas, Texas. Two adopted children, Dorothy and James Charles, also carried forward his memory.
Funeral services were held at his church, with interment at Altare Missionary Baptist Church graveyard, where his ancestors and extended family rest. His life stands as a testament to the enduring values of the Altare community—faith, family, and service—woven into the broader fabric of African American history in Newton County.
Sidebar: Altare’s Sons in Service — World War II and the Legacy of Duty
During World War II, many young men from the Altare community answered the nation’s call to service. For families like the Arringtons, Walkers, and Lewises, this was both a moment of pride and sacrifice. Camp Shelby, where Ambus Arrington trained, was a primary site for African American soldiers from Mississippi and neighboring states.
Despite serving in segregated units, these men carried forward a long tradition of patriotism rooted in their community’s faith and resilience. Their service symbolized both the defense of the nation and the pursuit of equality, as they returned home to continue building lives of dignity in the face of persistent racial barriers.
When Ambus was buried at Altare M.B. Church, the flag that once covered his casket represented not only his military service but also the quiet courage of an entire generation of Altare sons who stood tall in the defining conflict of their time.
Resting Place
Altare Missionary Baptist Church Graveyard
Photos/Albums
Sources
- 1920 Federal Census
- 1930 Federal Census
- 1940 Federal Census
- 1950 Federal Census
- The Newton Record, Ambus Arrington Obituary, Wed, Oct 20, 1971 ·Page 15
- The Newton Record, Isabella Arrington Obituary, Wed, Aug 09, 1961 ·Page 11
- Scott County Times, Melvin Evans Obituary, Wed, Mar 27, 1996 ·Page 2
- U.S. WWII Draft Cards Young Men, 1940-1947
- U.S., Department of Veterans Affairs BIRLS Death File, 1850-2010
- U.S., Find a Grave® Index, 1600s-Current
- U.S., Headstone Applications for Military Veterans, 1861-1985
- U.S., Social Security Applications and Claims Index, 1936-2007
- U.S., Social Security Death Index, 1935-2014
- U.S., World War II Army Enlistment Records, 1938-1946
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