Honoring Those Citizens who Have Made a Difference
in Memphis and the Region Since 1970
Progress in the Mid-South doesn't happen by accident - it is built by outstanding people, impactful organizations, and historic events.
Revival Memphis will regularly honor these change-makers to highlight their lasting positive impact.
George H. Brown, Jr., JD
Throughout his career, George Brown was adept in bringing people of different backgrounds, races, and opinions together for constructive discussions and agreements.Many note how Brown could speak softly while pushing others to be better versions of themselves, even to become long-term friends with former foes. After attending Florida A&M and serving in the US Army, George graduated from the Howard …
Wyeth Chandler
Wyeth Chandler (1930-2004) served the City of Memphis with great honor and success: Member and Chair, Memphis City Council (1968-1971); Mayor (1972-1982); and Circuit Court Judge and mediator. Wyeth was the adopted son of former U.S. Congressman and Mayor of Memphis, Walter Chandler. He grew up loving Memphis and its history. His public service to the City began in 1968. …
John Elkington
John Elkington is honored for his pivotal role in revitalizing the south end of downtown Memphis. Thanks to his vision and leadership, Beale Street has generated millions of dollars in tax revenue, created jobs, and provided enduring entertainment in Memphis, Tennessee. He supported Memphis in a period when few others were willing to invest in its future. After 1968, his …
Dr. Mose Yvonne Hooks
Dr. Hooks was active as an education advocate and administrator long after many people retired. Her full life was filled with many community engagement efforts – whether in education, service to causes, or social, as in her 50 plus years being active in social and civic affairs with her sorority and with the River City (TN) Chapter of The Links, …
Thomas H. Hutton, Jr.
Public service has been a tradition in the Hutton family. Tom is no exception. He has been a devoted member of the Memphis community, having served in leadership positions throughout the community and in the automotive industry. Today Thomas Hays Hutton, Jr. serves on the Revival Memphis board and has been a faithful donor and advisor. Tom worked for many …
Barbara and Pitt Hyde
Barbara and Pitt Hyde stand as two of the most influential Mid-South partners in philanthropy and civic leadership. For decades, they have done far more than build a successful business – they have consistently reinvested in our community to advance (1) a thriving Memphis for all and (2) a more unified, successful city. Revival Memphis is proud to honor this …
Bill Morris
William “Bill” Morris (1932-2025) wore many hats to help Memphis. In addition to serving as Sheriff and Mayor of Shelby County, Bill had a significant impact in reviving the Mid-South economy through transformative developments and civic involvement in the 1970s, ’80s, and ’90s.Morris had obvious empathy for men, women, and children from all walks of life. It started when he …
Fred Smith
Fred Smith was a success in many ways – a businessperson who put Memphis on the map as a headquarters city, a philanthropist (who sometimes gave anonymously), and a lifelong supporter of the city of Memphis. Smith founded Federal Express in Memphis in 1973 after attending Yale and serving two tours in Vietnam. FedEx became the first firm in U.S. …
Fumihiko Togo
During Fumihiko Togo’s tenure as Japan’s ambassador to the U.S. (1976- 1980), he played a pivotal role in fostering economic ties between Japan and the Mid-South. Inspired by the 1977 Memphis in May International Festival (MIM), where Japan was the honored country. Togo recognized the mutual benefits of encouraging Japanese investment in Tennessee and the region. His vision and enthusiasm …