OMEGA CHAPTER

Wallace Hall Everett Amos was born July 20, 1939 in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania and departed this life on December 5, 2022.

Wallace was the third child of the late Fletcher Monroe Amos and Mallie Elizabeth White Amos, and is predeceased by brothers Fletcher Monroe Amos, Jr. and Malcom D. Amos.
 Wallace’s family was a fixture in their North Philadelphia neighborhood, where he attended Vaux Junior High and later followed his older brothers, attending Central High School in the Olney section of the city. As a student at Central, Wallace was recognized as a Barnwell Scholar for his high academic achievement. He also excelled on the gridiron as a three-year varsity letter awardee and recipient of the Sarah Rosenberg Memorial trophy as the most outstanding player of the 1956 Central High School Football team. In 1958, Wallace matriculated to Northwestern University in Evanston, Illinois, after receiving the John McKee Merit Scholarship. As a freshman walk-on member of Northwestern's football team, Wallace’s teammates included future NFL players Fred “The Hammer” Williamson, and Irv Cross. Weathered by the harsh Illinois winters, Wallace transferred to Penn State University after his freshman year to continue his studies. At Penn State, Wallace pledged Omega Psi Phi fraternity and served as Dean of Pledges for the Spring ‘61 line. He graduated in 1961 with a Bachelor of Science degree in Electrical Engineering. It was here in State College that he met Thomasennia Sims, his Love and eventual life-long mate, whom he wed in 1961 following graduation. Soon after marrying, Wallace and Thomasennia settled in the West Oak Lane section of Philadelphia and in 1962, they welcomed their first child, Wallace Jr. Their union also produced a second child, Christopher Sims, who was born in 1970. As his family grew, Wallace worked diligently to grow professionally as well. Early on, he worked for Arc Electronics, the Franklin Institute, and General Electric, eventually landing at Burroughs Corporation which later became Unisys. As a recognized expert in the specialized field of electromagnetic compatibility, Wallace chaired and was a technical advisor to several international committees on the subject. In this capacity, Wallace traveled extensively overseas, visiting countries like Switzerland, Germany, France, and Italy. A true Renaissance Man, his business travel developed in him an appreciation for diverse cultures, international cuisine, the fine arts, and world history. Wallace retired from Unisys in 2000, after 40 years with the company. Wallace was a devoted family man with a myriad of interests and hobbies. With family roots in the deep South, he was a rabid Civil War buff, and family vacations often included visits to famous battlefields. He was a sharp poker player, and also enjoyed competitive rounds of board games with his family. Perhaps most prominent among Wallace’s hobbies was handball, a sport he picked up as a child growing up in North Philadelphia. Wallace played weekly at the YMCA in Germantown, PA and ultimately competed on the amateur level, winning or placing in several regional and national tournaments. In addition to feeding his competitive spirit, handball also kept Wallace in great physical shape - something his doctors attributed to him fighting and ultimately winning a battle with advanced lung cancer in 2000.

Wallace was a die-hard fan of his hometown Eagles, Phillies, and Sixers, rooting regularly for them during their respective seasons. Regarded by family, friends, and colleagues as a man of varied experience, vast knowledge and trusted wisdom, he was always willing to offer relevant advice regarding life’s challenges - be they personal, professional, financial, or otherwise.

Left to cherish his memory are his wife of 60 years Thomasennia, two sons Wallace Jr. and Christopher, daughter-in-love Maureen, grandchildren Sydney Lauren and Christopher Jacob,
and a long list of nieces, nephews, former colleagues and friends.

Robert A. "Inch" Anderson, 71, of Uniontown, passed away Saturday, April 16, 2022.

Robert was born March 24, 1951, in Uniontown, by the late James Roy Anderson and Britomarte Ford Anderson.

In addition to his parents, Robert was preceded in death by four brothers: Roy Anderson, Norman Anderson, James Anderson, Vernon Anderson; and sister, Gwendolyn Willis.

Robert graduated from Uniontown High School. He attended Penn State University and was a proud member of Omega Psi Phi Fraternity.

Robert worked as a dealer in Las Vegas, Nevada for 20 years, because of his charismatic personality he made many high-profile friends.

Robert was afflicted with Polio as a child, yet he never allowed his disability to stop him from engaging in activities that brought him joy like swimming, skating, and dancing. As an adult, he enjoyed playing cards and reminiscing while spending time with loved ones. Robert is survived by his brother, William Anderson and wife Shauna; nephews and nieces, Mark Anderson and wife Yolonda, Dennis Willis, Leona Willis, Will Anderson, Bobbi Anderson, James Anderson

Jr., and a host of great-nephews, great-nieces, and cousins.

(8.15.53 - 3.11.17)

Rodney J. Montgomery was born in Philadelphia PA to Billie Doris and the late Robert J. Montgomery, Sr. He is the second of four brothers.  

At an early age Rodney served on the safety patrol, neighborhood drill team and was a member of the Boys Scouts where he earned badges to the level of 2nd Class Scout. He worked as a Newspaper boy, a clerk at the neighborhood pharmacy and as a meat cutter. He is a graduate of Central High School. While at Central he was a member of the Swim Team and Co-Captain of the Tennis Team.  

In 1971 he matriculated at Penn State University where he majored in Social Administration. While at Penn State he joined Omega Psi Phi Fraternity on April 15, 1972. He furthered his education at Temple University in Social Administration. He completed Social Administration graduate studies at Lincoln University and holds a Master of Human Service Degree. Rodney holds postgraduate certification from Boston University School of Allied Sciences as well as Rutgers University School of Social Work.  

His work experience with children began at Southern Homes for Children were he became the Home Life Manager. After receiving his Master's Degree Rodney became the Director of CMCH in Trenton, New Jersey, a mental institution for children. Rodney is a retired Behavioral Consultant, following 30 years of work with children and families. After retiring, Rodney devoted his time as a mentor at Prince Hall School.  

Rodney was baptized at Non-Sectarian Church of God where he worshipped with his wife's family. He later transferred to Mount Zion of Germantown and found his new Christian family at Heart of Worship Restoration Center where he fell in love with his HOW family.  

Rodney is married to the lovely and industrious Marva Linda the Grand Worthy Matron of Deborah Grand Chapter, Order of Eastern Star, Inc Prince Hall Adopted, PA. She is the love of his life, partner and friend for almost 33 years. During their earlier years while Marva was working as a travel agent they were able to arrange many excursions and travel together. As a team they shared their leadership with many organizations.  

During his last couple of years of Rodney resided at Maplewood Manor. There his social and leadership skills went into effect as he formed and lead the Men's Group that met on a monthly basic. Rodney exercised his intelligence and leadership abilities everywhere he was present. He was a mentor and friend to many. If he befriended you he would give you a nickname. His favorite advice was you get more with sugar than vinegar'.  

He is a member of National Association of Child Care Workers, NAACP, Urban League and The Chapel of Four Chaplains. He has won numerous awards and honors, he's especially proud to receive Master Mason of the Year (1992), Junior Warden of the Year (1997), Thrice Illustrious Master of the Year (1998), Extra Large Lodge of the Year (1999), Eminent Commander and Commandery of the Year (2008), Sir Knight of the Year, (2011). He was honored by the   Philadelphia Council of Clergy (2000).  

Masonic Affiliations: 

Past Master, Tuscan Morning Star Lodge # 48 

Past High Priest, Bethel Chapter # 39, Holy Royal Arch Mason 

Past Thrice Illustrious Master, Philadelphia Council # 1, Royal &Select Mason 

Past Eminent Commander, Union Commandery # 1 MKT 

DeMolay Consistory # 1 Grand Inspector General, United Supreme Council 

Past Potentate, Pyramid Temple #1 Award Winning Clown 

Regent Melvin U. Davis No. 7, Knight of Pythagoras 

President/Founder, Winston O. Williams Chapter of the Phylaxis Society 

Past President, First Masonic District 

Past Worthy Patron, Blanche P. Nottingham Chapter No. 84 OES 

Former OES District Lecturer, (4 years) 

Isabella Clarkson Royal Court No. 31, Order of Cyrene 

Past Worthy Joshua, Truth Court No. 35, Heroine of Jericho 

Past Royal Chief Advisor, King Solomon Court No. 15, LOCOP 

Past Royal Grand Chief Advisor, Esther Grand Court, LOCOP  

He is the first in the history of Tuscan Morning Star Lodge # 48 to receive Knights of the Yorkrite Cross of Honor.  

Honorary Memberships: Lodges, Sheba Lodge #7, Corinthian Lodge #18, (Wash. DC), William F. Taylor Lodge # 57, (Maryland)  

O.E.S. Chapters, Martha No. 3, Louisa S. Rumford No. 15, Caroline E. Boardley No. 49, King Solomon No. 60 and Trinity No. 79.  

He leaves to cherish is memory, his wife Marva Linda; his mother Billie Doris; his brothers Robert, Michael, William (Selena), his daughter Aikiya Mignon Price, his son Bruce Raymond Morris, (Jahmeela), his sister in laws Barbara Ford, Charlene and Vanessa Price, his two Godchildren Rashee Chiverton and Tina Watson, his friend for over 54 years and best man Wayne Tucker, nieces, nephews and a host of family and friends. 

Philadelphia Daily News Obituary: December 2, 1987 

Louis A. Potter, a pioneer in the field of special education and teacher in the Philadelphia public schools for 42 years, died Monday. 

He was 89 and lived in Center City. Potter's creative approach to special education seemed unorthodox in 1926, but he later proved to be decades ahead of his time. In later years, a promising teacher in the public school system would be placed at Harrison School at 11th and Thompson streets just to learn by being around Potter. 

 
Though his long tenure at Harrison was a boon to thousands of youngsters, he did not arrive there by any grand design or intuitive placement by school authorities. 

"At that time (1926), being black and having a master's degree in biology would get you a cup of coffee and a trip on the subway if you had the money," said his son, Louis 

 
If Potter was dumped in what was considered a backwater of the system, it didn't deter him from making it a national model that would one day bring the Ford Foundation to his doorstep for guidance and advice.   

The youngsters who confronted Potter in the 1920s ranged in age from 10 to 17 and were generally considered to be retarded. But Potter knew this was not true in many cases. The kids he saw in 1926 and for years afterward were the children of the great black migration north that occurred just after World War I.  

Many of these children had never been in a classroom in the Deep South and had never come close to an academic environment. Once inside the school system, they were immediately labeled "feeble minded" or "slow”.  

Before returning to his native Philadelphia, Potter had taught biology under Dr. George Washington Carver at Tuskegee Institute. He also taught at South Carolina State College at Orangeburg, S.C.  

With this background, Potter melded the "self-help" concepts of Booker T. Washington and the social advocacy of W.E.B. DuBois to write his own program, his son said.  

In one program, described to a reporter in 1954, Potter took his students on 12 trips, which included the port, historic buildings, housing, farms, and industry. 

  
He said the purpose of the program was to "broaden the horizon, rouse the interest and develop understanding" for those who had never been on a farm, seen industry or ridden in a boat or even been inside a one-family dwelling. 

 
He loved taking students, and his own son, on walks through the city. On his father's side, his family had been here since colonial times. He could recite the history of buildings as he passed them and make the past live again in young imaginations.

  
After a field trip, the students would make clay or flour and salt models of what they had seen. He fought against the system's stereotyping of his students by developing ways of teaching all of the academic skills, including mathematics, English and manual arts.  

Potter's son, a former Philadelphia Tribune reporter and WCAU-TV producer and now a television screenwriter and producer in New York, said that many of his father's students went on to finish college.

 
Friendly, but always carrying a reservoir of dignity and decorum, Potter wrote a few articles on his work but probably would not have fared well in the "publish or perish” world of academia today. His son said his father felt his real contribution could be best made in the classroom and in teaching other teachers to teach. If there was little public recognition of his accomplishments, what he had done was known among educators on a national level. 

He was asked to serve as prime consultant to the Ford Foundation's Great Cities Project of the late 1950s and early 1960s. This project resulted in a major re-evaluation of public education in the United States, But Potter was not encouraged by certain trends he saw in education in his later years, said his son. Potter, said young Louis, "felt that it had been a retrograde process, things going back, rather than going forward.' "He also was a strong supporter of the teachers' union, but sometimes despaired that the professional dedication of his generation was no longer the norm. 

 
Potter was a graduate of South Philadelphia High School and received his bachelors of science degree from Pennsylvania State University. He was a member of Omega Psi Phi fraternity and the Philadelphia Schoolman's Club. 

 
Potter's late wife was the former Edna Williams. She died in 1968. In addition to his son, he is survived by a grandson, Niles Stewart, and several nieces and nephews. 

 
Services will be at noon Saturday at the Kirk and Nice Funeral Home, Germantown Avenue and Washington Lane, where friends may call one hour before the service. Burial will be in Eden Cemetery, Springfield Road, Collingdale, Delaware County. 

Arnold Francis Roane was born on October 26, 1937 in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania. He passed away peacefully on October 9, 2020 in Baltimore, Maryland where he lived briefly after being a resident in Denver, Colorado for over 35 years.

Arnold was born in Philadelphia to single mother, Mable who later married a kind man named Howard. Both of his parents worked long hours so Arnold learned to be self-sufficient at an early age. He was smart, liked to study, and he was admitted to the top high school, Central High School. He graduated early and earned a Bachelor of Arts degree at age 16. He then went to Penn State University where he earned a degree in mechanical engineering.

In 1958, Arnold was introduced to Myrtle Louise Bradway by mutual friends and in 1960, they were married. Until her death in January 2019, Myrtle was Arnold’s soulmate and selfless supporter throughout his accomplished career as corporate executive at General Electric and then Lockheed Martin.   

He started his work career at General Electric in the early 60’s. People were not always kind but his intelligence, persistence, and hard work resulted in his assignment to work on General Electric’s contribution to the US space program. Arnold's accomplishments opened the door of opportunity for Blacks at GE.  He was one of the first African Americans to complete GE's esteemed Crotonville program for leaders.  In 1973, Arnold was named General Electric's first participant in the Sloan Fellow's program at MIT. After a year of study and world travel (that included the former Soviet Union, East Germany, and Japan) with 50 other global corporate executives, he was awarded a Masters of Science in Management from MIT. He continued to work for General Electric until 1981, when he accepted an executive position at Lockheed Martin. He retired from Lockheed Martin in 2004.   

Throughout his career, Arnold served on community, corporate and educational boards including: Colorado Commission on Space, Science, and Industry; Rocky Mountain Junior Achievement Inc.; Colorado Episcopal Foundation; Girls Inc.; The QualLife Foundation; and the Denver Botanical Gardens.  

He was an active member and served a term as president of the MIT Sloan Fellows Society Board of Governors, and he served on the MIT Visiting Committee on Sponsored Research. He was also an official interviewer of perspective MIT students.   

Arnold enjoyed traveling with Myrtle. In 1978 their family traveled to England, France, Switzerland, Austria, and Italy. Over the years, Arnold and Myrtle also enjoyed annual trips to Aruba, Palm Dessert, San Diego, and Hilton Head. For several decades, they regularly visited all of their children and grandchildren in Cincinnati, Santa Maria, and Boston.   

Arnold remained very physically fit up until recent years. For 35+ years, he played tennis 2-3 days a week at 6 am.  He was a cross country runner in college and returned to the sport in Colorado completing the Bolder Boulder over ten times.  He also enjoyed playing golf however, he did not like the expense or the country club culture often times associated with golf. At home, he was an excellent handyman and would fix or upgrade plumbing, heating as well as any appliance or car regardless if he knew what he was doing. He maintained the exterior of the house and the property at a very high level of quality. He never hired any help and did all of the work -- grass, trees, shrubs, flowers, leaf and snow removal – all of it! He likes to brag that he painted the entire exterior of the house – when he was 70!!   

Church was a staple for Arnold for his entire life. His grandfather was a Baptist minister (the kind that preached fire and brimstone to rain on all sinners!) and as young boy he spent a lot of time in church. When he married Myrtle, he switched and became a member of the Episcopal Church. He was always a very active church leader. In Denver, he served on the Episcopal Diocese Board and as an advisor on ethics to the regional bishop. Late in life he enjoyed worshipping with his wife and friends at Park Hill United Methodist Church.  

Arnold was a very social (not shy) introvert. He liked his peace more than he liked people. He was goal oriented and self-motivated and did not shy away from hard work. He had quick wit and in spite of his dementia, he could still tell and appreciate jokes.    

Arnold is survived by: his daughters Arlene Roane Rahn and her husband, Henry Rahn of Baltimore, Maryland and Denise Roane Barnes and her husband Rick Barnes of Grafton, Massachusetts; his niece Dr. Reverend Jill Bradway of Brooklyn, NY; his granddaughters Amina Taylor Reilly, and Devon Beebe Wood; and his cousin Richard Smith, Sr. He is preceded in death by his wife Myrtle Louise Roane; his daughter Rochell Roane Beebe; his mother Mabel Brown and father Howard Brown.