Rep. Hank Johnson honors 15 “Unsung Heroes” of Georgia’s Fourth Congressional District @ 2024 event

DECATUR – On Sunday, Nov. 17, Congressman Hank Johnson (GA-04) honored 15 residents at his Sixth Annual Unsung Heroes awards program for their positive contributions to the community. 

Johnson said he believes it is important to honor those who give back to the community to be an inspiration, and beacons of light. 

“…When people see others, that serves as a model for them to do the same thing,” Johnson said.  

Since 2019, Johnson has recognized nearly 100 constituents who go above and beyond to volunteer their time in DeKalb, Rockdale, and Newton counties.

The program was held at the Legacy Park facility on South Columbia Drive in Decatur.     

The honorees included:

Diamond of the District: Individuals, entities and/or organizations that serve the district through advocating on behalf of faith-based organizations, schools, municipalities or disadvantaged communities.

• The Rev. Billie Boyd-Cox, pastor of Macedonia Baptist Church in Rockdale 
• Darlene E. Hotchkiss, longtime advocate for public education in Rockdale 
• Esther Maclin, Rockdale County Public Schools executive assistant

Pillar of Power: Individuals who have served in a seat of government, faith-based institutions, or corporate entities. A person who has utilized his/her authority for the betterment of others.

• The Rev. Eric Wendel Lee, Sr., pastor ofSpringfield Baptist Church in Rockdale
• Nancy Schul, former Newton County Commissioner
• Cleveland Stroud, longtime Coach, Educator and former Conyers City Councilmember 

Community Cornerstone: Individuals who have served the district for five years or more, making a direct positive contribution to constituents’ lives.

• Albert Murray, former Georgia Board of Pardon and Paroles Board Member
• Thomas Mitcham “Mitch” Stewart, Small business owner in Rockdale and Newton
• Stanley Williams, founding director of the Rockdale County Juvenile Court’s Evening Reporting Center

Beacon of Light: Professionals, Advocates, and Servant leaders who shine brightly through their efforts with our youth, veterans, and/or seniors.

• Erik Brown, U.S. Army veteran, American Legion Post 77 in Rockdale
• Marketa Killingbeck, Facilities Operation Manager DeKalb County
• Tommy Plummer, bailiff for Rockdale County Magistrate Court

Champion of the 4th: Advocates, Educators and/or Professionals who give of themselves to enhance the lives of others, while building up the district.

• Garrett Crawford, U.S. Army Veteran, Youth Mentor in Rockdale & Newton counties
• Thomas McCrea, U.S. Army Veteran, Advocate Fighting To Prevent Homelessness
• Phontonia Walter, Special Education Teacher at Memorial Middle School in Rockdale
• From left: Nancy Schulz, Darlene Hotchkiss, Pam Dickerson, Albert Murray, Esther Maclin, Thomas “Mitch” Stewart,

  Billie Boyd-Cox, Congressman Hank Johnson, Stan Williams, Garrett Crawford, Phontonia Walter, Erik Brown,

  Marketa Killingbeck, Thomas McCrea, Tommy Plummer. Seated: Cleveland Stroud.