Deckard Honored after 24 Years of Tyler NAACP Leadership

TYLER — Friends, family, supporters, and colleagues turned out by the dozens Sunday to honor Ernest Deckard, who recently stepped down after 24 years as president of the Tyler NAACP. A service and luncheon for Deckard were held at New Generation Baptist Church. Proclaiming January 18 “Ernest Deckard Day,” Mayor Martin Heines called the 85-year-old Deckard “a man of honor and directness.” Keynote speaker and City Councilman Darryl Bowdre said Deckard “set a standard for leadership of the NAACP,” giving it “stability, tenacity, and purpose” that allowed the group to navigate “turbulent times.” Bowdre added, “One reason we didn’t have a Ferguson (Missouri) was because we had Ernest Deckard.” Other dignitaries on hand included City Councilman Ed Moore, County Commissioner JoAnn Hampton, and Police Chief Gary Swindle.

When his turn came to speak, Deckard thanked everyone and added that he’ll continue his involvement in the association, saying, “I’m not going anywhere.” Deckard has a long list of affiliations, awards, and certifications to go along with his NAACP leadership. Among other things, he’s led the local A. Philip Randolph Institute and the Tyler Organization of Men. Cedrick Granberry was recently sworn in as Deckard’s successor at the NAACP.

Photo courtesy of the Tyler Morning Telegraph