HOUSTON – The Harris County Historical Commission (HCHC) has recognized the Rest Lawn Cemetery as a significant part of Texas history by awarding it a Harris County marker. The designation honors the cemetery as an important and educational part of local history.
Rest Lawn Cemetery was established in the 1930s and is one of Acres Homes community’s oldest graveyards. Among the interred there are several veterans and masons. Austin county native, Weldon H. Philip Bonner, aka “Juke Boy Bonner,” (March 22, 1932-June 29, 1978) who was an African-American Blues singer and musician is also interred in the cemetery.
Second Chance Outreach, Inc., a non-profit organization established by Johnnie Tatum has maintained and preserved a marker unveiling and dedication ceremony was held at the cemetery. Rest Lawn in located at 8400 Wheatley Street, Houston, 77088.
Among those present at the ceremony were representatives from the Mayor’s office, Congresswoman Sheila Jackson Lee, State Representative Jarvis Johnson (D-139), representatives from Harris County Precinct 1 and Harris County Historical Commission.
Photo credit: Priscilla Graham Photography
