van wesley, sr.
1904-1964
Life Story
Early Life and Parentage
Van Wesley was born on October 16, 1904, in Newton County, Mississippi, to Frank Wesley (1878–1953) and Cornelia Evans Wesley (1884–1923). He was raised during a period when farming was central to daily life and survival in the Saint John community.
Education and Occupation
Van Wesley received no formal schooling. At an early age, he began working as a farm hand on the home farm, a role that shaped the course of his life. He remained a farmer throughout his lifetime, contributing steadily to the agricultural economy and self-sufficiency of his family.
Marriage and Family
He married Alma Walker Wesley (1907–1969), and together they built a large family rooted in faith, labor, and community.
Children born from this union include:
- Ardellia Wesley (1928–1991)
- Louella Wesley (1930–?)
- Myrtle Bell Wesley (1933–?)
- Van Wesley, Jr. (1935–1989)
- Elizabeth Wesley (1938–?)
- George Allen Wesley (1939–1992)
- Calvin D. Wesley (1944–?)
- Etta Mae Wesley (1945–2021)
- David Lee Wesley
Later Life
Van Wesley spent his entire life engaged in farming, embodying the work ethic common among Saint John families of his generation. His life reflects the experiences of many African American farmers in Newton County during the first half of the 20th century.
Death and Burial
Van Wesley passed away on November 11, 1964. He is laid to rest at Saint John Missionary Baptist Church Graveyard, among family members and fellow community builders whose lives shaped the church and its surrounding settlement.
Resting Place
Saint John Missionary Baptist Church Graveyard
Photos/Albums
Sources
- U.S., Find a Grave® Index, 1600s-Current
- 1910 Federal Census
- 1920 Federal Census
- 1930 Federal Census
- 1940 Federal Census
- 1950 Federal Census
- U.S., Social Security Applications and Claims Index, 1936-2007
Leave a Reply