Supervisor Doug Anderson laid to rest

JACKSON, MS (Mississippi News Now) - New Horizon Church International filled with people and songs of praise to help Anderson's family push through their grief. Yet, amongst the tears, Saturday's service was a celebration of life for Anderson who lost his battle to ongoing health issues on April 13th.

While the Supervisor spent the majority of his life giving back to his community, those who gave tribute to Anderson spoke frequently about the top priority in his life.

"Family was very important to him, his daughters, his son, his wife everybody here today are people that really loved and care for Mr. Anderson," said Hinds County Board President Robert Graham.

Anderson served 19 years on the Hinds County Board of Supervisors as well as several years in the Mississippi legislature where he helped his cousin Representative Alyce Clarke [(D) District 69] get elected.

"After the election for some reason he seemed almost as happy as I was to have got elected," explained Rep. Clarke.

Education was a passion of Anderson's. JSU's past president Dr. John Peoples remembers Anderson as one of his best math teachers and an advocate for improving opportunities for students at Historically Black Universities.

"As a matter of fact he faced up to the state college board for me who were opposed to these institutions of advancement," said Dr. Peoples.

Anderson's advocacy stretched beyond the professional realm. He's also remembered as a great friend.

Supervisor Graham said the board will discuss a replacement for Anderson next week. Graham said Saturday's focus is all about Anderson's family.

Supervisor Anderson was buried at the Garden Memorial Cemetery in Jackson.