Avery Willie Washington

After graduating from Anguilla High School, he attended college at Alcorn State University where he received his Bachelor’s Degree in Science. He continued his education at the University of Illinois- Urbana – Champaign where he received his Master’s Degree in Education.

His bravery during the Korean War earned him a purple heart and bronze medal. He ran many search and rescue missions, saving and helping anyone he could. He retired with honors from the US Army as an officer. While serving in the US Army, he met and married Meredith Lillian Travis in 1959.

After serving in the Army, Mr. Washington taught in the Chicago Public Schools for over thirty seven years. Over the years, his expertise and reputation led him to become Assistant Principal at Richard’s Career Academy. He not only took pride in his teaching, but truly relished the friends he made during his time coaching and mentoring his students.

He was an active member of the Christ Universal Temple.

He was an active member of the American Legion. He enjoyed reading, going to the movies, playing and watching sports. He was actively involved in teaching basketball for many years. Also, Mr. Washington once served as a delegate to the Chicago Teachers Union.

Mr. Washington had such a strong work ethic that during the summer months when school was out he worked distributing telephone books for R.R. Donnelley and Son Company as well as other jobs to support his family and education.

Mr. Washington had remarkable concerns about his community. He worked numerous days with the Beverly Area Planning Association to foster a safe,

friendly, culturally diverse, and family-oriented neighborhood with good

schools, growing businesses, and at the same time raising the values of homes.

On February 23, 2016, surrounded by all those who loved him deeply, Mr. Avery Washington passed away and now rest in the arms of our God.

Mr. Washington’s wife Meredith Washington preceded him in death. Mr. Washington is survived by his two daughters: Casetha Washington, and Mabel Davis (James). His Sister: Augustella Jefferson, Sister-in-laws: Shirley Travis Pollock, Mrs. Mattie Brown and Mrs. Penny Murray, brother-in-laws: Mr. Harris Travis (Georgia), Mr. Ralph Travis (Ann), Mr. Hillard Travis (Verdell), nephews, nieces, a host of relatives and friends.