Bessie Mae Peyton Jones
Photo Credit: Richmond Free Press
About Richmond's Honorary Street Name Designations
Honorary street names can be found throughout Richmond, and are intended to memorialize individuals for their civic, cultural, humanitarian, or historically significant contributions to the Richmond Community. These designations typically apply to a portion of a street, such as a city block, and are designated by Richmond City Council via the passing of an Ordinance. Honorary street names do not replace the existing name of a street and do not require an alteration to maps or addresses.
Richard Jones and Bessie Jones
Richard I. Jones, Sr., a World War II veteran and retiree from the U.S. Postal Service, along with his late wife, Bessie Mae Peyton Jones, were influential figures in the Randolph neighborhood of Richmond. The couple were actively involved in various community organizations and initiatives, particularly in efforts to organize voter registration drives. Their contributions to the Richmond Crusade for Voters helped to mobilize African American voting power in their community. After Richard passed away in 2005, Bessie Jones continued her community organizing efforts, gaining a reputation for assembling effective teams to work the polls and boost voter turnout. The couple's involvement also extended to the Randolph Neighborhood Association, National Night Out events, and the West End Civic Association.
Designation Area:
The 1100 block of Eggleston Street has been given the honorary designation of Richard & Bessie Jones Street.
Download the Council Ordinance:
Learn more about this Honorary Street Designation by downloading a copy of the legislation. The Council Ordinance below is in PDF format:
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