Mrs. Evelyn Lucielle Newton Bush is a lifelong resident of Sabine Parish. She recently celebrated her ninety-nineth birthday with family and friends. Born to Samuel Ferma Newton and Mattie Elma Brewster Newton Bush on January 18, 1925.
She was one of five children, her siblings include brothers, Samuel and Bernard and sisters, Goldie, and Laverne. She speaks fondly of the years living in the yellow house near her present located Washington Street. She lost her mother early in her life because of complications from childbirth. She speaks warmly of the support and love bestowed on her and her siblings by her father and each of her grandmothers who raised and nurtured them through life.
She attended school at Sabine High School in Many, Louisiana where she graduated in 1943. She enjoyed school during those years having and had a special teacher in Home Economics, Ms. Wilhemina Haynes. She recalls her as a lovely person and skilled teacher dedicated to her job enough to commute from her home in Baton Rouge on weekends. In addition to academics, Mrs. Bush excelled in athletics, especially basketball. She played forward which enabled her to do the shooting for the team. Her teams were successful gaining the opportunity to play in Baton Rouge. Taking the opportunity to practice in the gym across town, they were prepared for the competition. Following her graduation in Many, Ms. Bush attended Southern University in Baton Rouge to pursue a Degree in Home Economics Education.
Mrs. Bush began her professional career as a Home Economics teacher at Sabine High School. Following in the footsteps of her favorite teacher, Mrs. Bush instated an inspired the youth of Many in skills of managing the home including budgets cooking, childcare, sewing, etiquette, and planning for social events. Her work extended over many years including 1949 until 1974. She spent many of her years at Many High School before retiring.
She cherishes her marriage to Arthur James Bush that extended to fifty-four years before his death. Mr. Bush was also from Many, Louisiana and served his country in World War II. They raised three children, her stepdaughter Linda, sons, Samuel and Arthur who live and work locally.
Mrs. Bush has volunteered for civic activities over the years include serving on with multiple organizations to initiate services and support through church and community. She helped with the development of the Taylor House as a local haven for victims of potential domestic abuse.
She is a lifetime member of Bethal Baptist Church in Many which is located close to her home. Ms. Bush has taken part of events and originations in the church and supported its success through commitment to her faith and the worship shared at Bethal.
Mrs. Bush admits that she regrets not getting to be out visiting people and being among friends. She finds the time to participate in Sabine Council on Aging activities and events as much as possible. Her cheerful outlook is inspiring to all who are fortunate to know her.
The Sabine Hall of Fame Induction Banquet will be held on Tuesday, March 26th at Cypress Bend Banquet Hall, 2000 Cypress Bend Parkway, Many, Louisiana. Doors open at 6:00 P.M. an program begins at 6:30 P. M. Tickets at $50 person can be purchased at: Pete Abington’s Office, Nichols in Many, Sabine Parish Tourist Commission, Sabine Parish Chamber of Commerce, Robert Gentry’s Office at the radio station and by calling Martha Henderson at 645-9573.