Restored historic cemetery to be rededicated October 24

By Carolyn Vance Smith · Adapted from her September 21, 2026 announcement

“At last, we can read the names and dates on tombstones which have been illegible for so long,” said Debra Blackwell, chairman of the cemetery restoration committee at Christ Church, Church Hill, Mississippi.

The recently restored historic cemetery will be rededicated to the glory of God at a special worship service at 11 a.m. on Saturday, October 24, 2026. The Right Rev. Dr. Dorothy Sanders Wells, Bishop of the Episcopal Diocese of Mississippi, will conduct the service, assisted by the Rev. Samuel B. Godfrey, Christ Church’s permanent supply priest.

“We want everyone to come and help us celebrate this outstanding cemetery restoration,” said Eddie Thompson, warden at Christ Church, Church Hill.

The work has continued for many months. Cemetery Doctor, LLC, of Terry, Mississippi, has restored fallen and broken headstones and reset them where they originally stood. Blackwell expressed gratitude both for the restorers’ skill and for the many supporters whose gifts made the project possible.

“For decades, the cemetery has meant so much to so many,” she said. “We are delighted to have it repaired and beautiful once again.”

After worship, visitors may stroll through the cemetery to see the restored and cleaned stones. An informal luncheon hosted by the church will follow at Church Hill Variety, across the road.

Organized in 1820, Christ Church, Church Hill, is the oldest Episcopal congregation in the Diocese of Mississippi. Its present Gothic Revival building dates to 1857–1858. The cemetery restoration continues the congregation’s care for a place of worship, remembrance, and community.

57 Church Hill Rd., Natchez, MS 39120. The public is invited; all are welcome.

Christ Church thanks Debra and Skipper Blackwell, the restoration committee, the congregation, and all supporters for their care of the cemetery, and Trent Lewis and his crew at Cemetery Doctor for the restoration work.

Bishop Wells will also lead Sunday worship on October 25 at 2 PM Central. All are welcome at both services.

In the news

Read The Natchez Democrat’s coverage of the October 24 cemetery rededication.