Famous Mississippians

Famous Mississippians
Adcock, David (David Adcock), TV/Radio/Media Personality, born in Ridgeland, Madison County - Long-time Jackson radio DJ; a veteran of WJDX and WZZQ; host of the popular 'Toons Till Two.' (We normally don't indicate that a personality has died, however...) David died in 2001, and will be dearly missed by thousands of friends and fans.
Akin, Susan Diane (Susan Diane Akin), Miss America, born in Meridian, Lauderdale County
Alexander, John (John Alexander), Musician, born in Meridian, Lauderdale County - New York Metropolitan Opera star
Alice, Mary (Mary Alice), Actor, born in Indianola, Sunflower County - Star of NBC's I'll Fly Away
Allison, Mose (Mose Allison), Musician, born in Tippo, Tallahatchie County - Jazz Pianist and composer
Alworth, Lance (Lance Alworth), Sports Figure, born in Brookhaven, Lincoln County - Flanker for San Diego Chargers and Dallas Cowboys; first AFL player to be inducted into the NFL Hall of Fame.
Anderson, Walter (Walter Anderson), Artist, born in Ocean Springs, Jackson County
Andrews, Dana (Carver Dana Andrews), Actor, born in Collins, Covington County - Starred in 69 films
Applebaum, Mark (Mark Applebaum), Musician, born in Starkville, Oktibbeha County - Jazz pianist and composer of electronic music
Azar, Steve (Steve Azar), Musician, born in Greenville, Washington County - Country songwriter, singer and guitarist
Babbitt, Milton (Milton Babbitt), Musician, born in Jackson, Hinds County - Influential composer and music educator
Ballard, Glen (Glen Ballard), Musician, born in Natchez, Adams County, lived in Oxford, Lafayette County - Grammy award winning songwriter/producer/keyboard player; wrote hits for Kiki Dee, Alanis Morissette, George Strait, and has produced albums for a number of artists, including Aretha Franklin, Natalie Cole, Michael Jackson, and Barbra Streisand; a close associate of Quincy Jones
Bandy, Moe (Moe Bandy), Musician, born in Meridian, Lauderdale County - Country singer
Barber, Red (Red Barber), Sports Figure, born in Columbus, Lowndes County - Noted baseball announcer, broadcaster, and humorist. Many will remember his regular Friday guest appearances on National Public Radio
Barksdale, James (James Barksdale), Entrepreneur, born in Jackson, Hinds County - Former CEO of Netscape
Barnes, Booba (Roosevelt Barnes), Musician, born in Longwood, Washington County - Blues harmonica player
Barq, Edward (Edward Barq), Entrepreneur, born in Biloxi, Harrison County - Originator of Barq's Root Beer
Barry, Marion (Marion S. Barry, Jr.), Politician, born in Itta Bena, Leflore County - Former mayor of Washington, D.C.
Barton, Dee (Dee Barton), Musician, born in Houston, Chickasaw County, lived in Starkville, Oktibbeha County - Composer
Baskett, Frank (Frank Baskett), Musician, born in Collins, Covington County - Acoustic guitarist and singer
Bass, Lance (Lance Bass), Musician, born in Laurel, Jones County - Singer and member of 'N SYNC
Blackwood Brothers, ( Blackwood Brothers), Musician, born in Ackerman, Choctaw County - Gospel quartet
Bolton-Holifield, Ruthie (Ruthie Bolton-Holifield), Sports Figure, born in McLain, Greene County - Two time olympian
Bostick, Dr. A. E. (Dr. A. E. Bostick), Medical Professional, born in Iuka, Tishomingo County - "He touched the lives of all who ever knew him in a way that mattered so as to make their world a better and happier place." -- Wanda Bostick Little
Boston, Ralph (Ralph Boston), Sports Figure, born in Laurel, Jones County - Olympic long jumper; medaled in 3 consecutive Olympic long jumps - gold (1960), silver (1964), bronze (1968).
Bramlett, Delaney & Bonnie (Delaney & Bonnie Bramlett), Musician, born in Pontotoc, Pontotoc County - Rock and blues duo; recorded with Eric Clapton.
Brantley, Jeff (Jeff Brantley), Sports Figure, lived in Clinton, Hinds County - Closing pitcher for Pittsburgh
Brasfield, Rod (Rod Brasfield), Comedian, born in Smithville, Monroe County - Starred on the Grand Ole Opry for 14 years
Broonzy, Big Bill (William Lee Conley Broonzy), Musician, born in Scott, Bolivar County - Blues singer, guitarist, songwriter.
Brown, Larry (Larry Brown), Writer, born in Oxford, Lafayette County - Brown, an ex-marine and ex-fireman who hails from Faulkner's hometown of Oxford, Mississippi, brings a somewhat different voice to modern southern writing.
Buffett, Jimmy (Jimmy Buffett), Musician, born in Pascagoula, Jackson County - Singer/songwriter. Most famous resident of Key West, Florida since Ernest Hemingway. Founder of the Coral Reefer Band; famous songs include Come Monday, Margueritaville, and A Pirate Looks at Forty.
Buford, George "Mojo" (George Buford), Musician, born in Hernando, DeSoto County - Blues harmonica player
Burns, Little Eddie Guitar (Eddie Burns), Musician, born in Belzoni, Humphreys County - Blues guitarist, singer and harmonica player
Byrd, James Dotson (James Dotson Byrd), Inventor, born in Clinton, Hinds County - Polymer scientist, holder of seven U.S. patents, who developed the plastic used as a heat shield in the NASA Space Program.
Campbell, Will D. (Will D. Campbell), Activist, born in Liberty, Amite County - Prototype for the character, 'Rev. Will B. Dunn,' in the comic strip, 'Kudzu,' by Doug Marlett
Carr, Sam (Sam Carr), Musician, born in Friars Point, Coahoma County - Blues drummer
Carter, Bo (Armenter Chatmon), Musician, born in Bolton, Hinds County - Renowned blues guitarist and vocalist of the 1930s. Along with brothers, Lonnie and Sam Chatmon, was a member of the Mississippi Sheiks.
Carter, Hodding (Hodding Carter), Journalist, lived in Jackson, Hinds County, lived in Greenville, Washington County - Outspoken editor of the Delta Democrat-Times who advocated racial justice and condemned demagoguery and the militancy of both blacks and whites from the 1940s to the 1960s, a time when such views were extremely unpopular in Mississippi. However, it earned him the Pulitzer Prize twice and the William Allen White citation as the outstanding newspaperman of the year.
Carter, III, Hodding (Hodding Carter, III), Statesman, born in Greenville, Washington County - Writer and statesman, State Department spokesman under President Jimmy Carter
Chabert, Lacey (Lacey Nicole Chabert), Actor, born in Purvis, Lamar County - Party of Five; Lost in Space, The Movie
Chaney, James (James Chaney), Activist, born in Meridian, Lauderdale County, was born or lived in Philadelphia, Neshoba County - Was murdered on June 21, 1964, in Neshoba County, during the 'Freedom Summer' effort to register black voters, along with co-workers, Andrew Goodman and Michael Schwerner.
Chatmon, Lonnie (Lonnie Chatmon), Musician, lived in Bolton, Hinds County - Noted blues fiddler of the early 20th Century; founder of the Mississippi Sheiks, a popular blues band of the 1930s.
Chatmon, Sam (Sam Chatmon), Musician, born in Bolton, Hinds County - Blues singer; also played guitar, banjo, bass, mandolin, and harmonica; along with his two brothers, Lonnie Chatmon and Bo Carter, was a member of the Mississippi Sheiks in the early 1900s.
Childress, Alvin (Alvin Childress), Actor, born in Meridian, Lauderdale County - Played Amos in the Amos and Andy television show
Claiborne, Craig (Craig Claiborne), Writer, born in Indianola, Sunflower County - Food critic for N.Y. Times, and author of many cookbooks.
Cliburn, Van (Van Cliburn), Musician, born in Philadelphia, Neshoba County - Concert pianist
Clower, Jerry (Jerry Clower), Comedian, born in Liberty, Amite County, lived in Yazoo City, Yazoo County - Recorded numerous comedy albums; originated the Ledbetter Family; star of the Grand Ole Opry.
Cochran, Hank (Hank Cochran), Musician, born in Isola, Humphreys County - Country songwriter; winner of 33 BMI awards.
Cole, Harry (Harry A. Cole, Sr.), Inventor, born in Jackson, Hinds County - Inventor of Pine Sol
Conner, Fox (Fox Conner), Military Figure, born in Slate Spring, Calhoun County - World War I General
Cooke, Sam (Sam Cooke), Musician, born in Clarksdale, Coahoma County - Gospel, soul, and R&B singer
Cotton, Eddie (Eddie Cotton), Musician, born in Clinton, Hinds County, lived in Jackson, Hinds County - Blues singer/guitarist; solid guitar work with a vocal style reminiscent of Al Green or George Benson - More Information
Crocker, Johnny (Johnny Crocker), Musician, was born or lived in Jackson, Hinds County - Pop/rock saxophonist
Crudup, Big Boy (Arthur Crudup), Musician, born in Forest, Scott County - Blues Singer/songwriter
Davis, Jefferson (Jefferson Davis), Politician, lived in Biloxi, Harrison County, lived in Unknown, Wilkinson County - West Point graduate; first and only President of the Confederate States of America
Davis, Paul (Paul Davis), Musician, born in Meridian, Lauderdale County
Davis, Tyrone (Tyrone Davis), Musician, born in Greenville, Washington County - Soul, blues, rythym & blues singer
Davis, Walter (Walter Davis), Musician, born in Grenada, Grenada County - Blues singer
Dawkins, Jimmy (Jimmy Dawkins), Musician, born in Tchula, Holmes County - Blues guitarist
Dean, Dizzy (Dizzy Dean), Sports Figure, born in Bond, Stone County - Baseball player and long-time sports broadcaster
Diddley, Bo (Elias McDaniels), Musician, born in Magnolia, Pike County
Dixon, Willie (Willie Dixon), Musician, born in Vicksburg, Warren County - Blues composer, producer, arranger, bass player
Douglas, Ellen (Josephine Ayres Haxton), Writer, born in Jackson, Hinds County
Dye, John (John Dye), Actor, born in Amory, Monroe County - Star of "Touched by An Angel"
Ebbers, Bernie (Bernard J. Ebbers), Entrepreneur, born in Jackson, Hinds County, lived in Brookhaven, Lincoln County - CEO of WorldCom
Ellis, Beverly (Beverly Denise Ellis), Musician, born in Durant, Holmes County - Country singer/songwriter
Elzy, Ruby (Ruby Elzy), Actor, born in Pontotoc, Pontotoc County - First Serena in George Gershwin's play, Porgy and Bess
Evers, Charles (James Charles Evers), Civil Rights Leader, born in Decatur, Newton County, lived in Fayette, Jefferson County, lived in Jackson, Hinds County - Former field director of the NAACP, business owner, disc jockey, and former Mayor of Fayette, Mississippi, the first black elected as a mayor in the state following Reconstruction; brother of slain civil rights leader, Medgar Evers.
Evers, Medgar (Medgar Wiley Evers), Civil Rights Leader, born in Decatur, Newton County, lived in Jackson, Hinds County - NAACP field secretary who was assassinated by Byron de la Beckwith
Evers, Myrlie B. (Myrlie Evers-Williams), Civil Rights Leader, born in Vicksburg, Warren County, lived in Jackson, Hinds County - Widow of slain civil rights leader, Medgar Evers. Later, was President of the NAACP.
Faulkner, William (William Cuthbert Faulkner), Writer, born in New Albany, Union County, lived in Oxford, Lafayette County - One of the 20th Century's greatest novelists; 1950 Nobel Prize winner.
Favre, Brett (Brett Favre), Sports Figure, born in Kiln, Hancock County - Green Bay Packers' quarterback
Ferris, William (William R. Ferris, Jr.), Educator, born in Vicksburg, Warren County, lived in Jackson, Hinds County, lived in Oxford, Lafayette County - Former associate professor at Jackson State University and founder of the Center for the Study of Southern Culture at the University of Mississippi
Foote, Shelby (Shelby Foote), Writer, born in Greenville, Washington County - Writer and famed historian
Forbert, Steve (Steve Forbert), Musician, born in Meridian, Lauderdale County - Singer/songwriter
Ford, Billy (William Ford), Artist, born in Laurel, Jones County - Painter, sculptor
Ford, Richard (Richard Ford), Writer, born in Jackson, Hinds County
Foster, Willie (Willie James Foster), Musician, born in Leland, Washington County, lived in Greenville, Washington County - Blues harmonica; Chicago Blues player. He was known as the "Godfather of The Blues" and was a cohort of Muddy Waters. He said of himself, "I am the blues from the bottom of my foot to the hair on my head. I was born in the blues, raised in the blues and lived the blues."
Fountain, Pete (Pete Fountain), Musician, born in Bay St. Louis, Hancock County - Jazz clarinetist
Fox, Vivica A. (Vivica A. Fox), Actor, born in West Point, Clay County - Debuted in Independence Day, opposite Will Smith
Fraiser, Jim (Jim Fraiser), Writer, born in Greenwood, Leflore County, lived in Jackson, Hinds County - Author and actor; played veterinarian in Willie Morris's My Dog Skip
Freeman, Morgan (Morgan Freeman), Actor, lived in Clarksdale, Coahoma County, lived in Charleston, Tallahatchie County, lived in Greenwood, Leflore County - Famed Broadway and movie actor; among his best known movies are The Shawshank Redemption, Driving Miss Daisy, Amistad, Kiss the Girls, and Deep Impact.
Geary, Cynthia (Cynthia Geary), Actor, born in Jackson, Hinds County - Starred in Northern Exposure
Gentry, Bobbie (Bobbie Gentry), Musician, born in Greenwood, Leflore County - Singer; famed for "Ode to Billy Joe"
Gilchrist, Ellen (Ellen Gilchrist), Writer, born in Vicksburg, Warren County
Gilley, Mickey (Mickey Gilley), Musician, born in Natchez, Adams County - Country singer/songwriter. His nightclub and songs were featured in the John Travolta movie, 'Urban Cowboy.'
Gillum, Jazz (William Gillum), Musician, born in Indianola, Sunflower County - Blues harmonica player
Gorove, Stanley (Stanley Gorove), Scientist, lived in Oxford, Lafayette County - An authority on space law who represented the American Society of International Law before the United Nations Committee on Peaceful Uses in Outer Space.
Graham, Karen Ann (Karen Ann Graham), Model, born in Gulfport, Harrison County
Gray, Mark (Mark Gray), Musician, born in Jackson, Hinds County - Country singer/songwriter
Grisham, John (John Grisham), Writer, lived in Oxford, Lafayette County - Prolific, popular novelist; some of his works made into movies include: The Client, The Firm, The Pelican Brief, The Rainmaker, and A Time To Kill.
Grubbs, Glenda Meadows (Glenda Meadows Grubbs), TV/Radio/Media Personality, born in Richton, Perry County - Former Miss America
Haise, Fred (Fred Haise), Astronaut, born in Biloxi, Harrison County
Hamer, Fannie Lou (Fannie Lou Hamer), Civil Rights Leader, born in Montgomery County - Gave famous speech at the 1964 Democratic National Convention in Chicago, in which she said, "I'm sick and tired of being sick and tired."
Handy, W. C. (W. C. Handy), Musician, born in Clarksdale, Coahoma County - "Father of the Blues"; pianist and composer
Hannah, Barry (Barry Hannah), Writer, born in Oxford, Lafayette County, lived in Clinton, Hinds County
Harris, Thomas (Thomas Harris), Writer, lived in Rich, Coahoma County - Silence of the Lambs
Henley, Beth (Elizabeth Becker Henley), Playwright, born in Jackson, Hinds County - Playwright and screenwriter whose most notable piece was 'Crimes of the Heart,' for both stage and screen.
Henson, Jim (Jim Henson), Entrepreneur, born in Leland, Washington County - Creator of the Muppets
Herrerra, Anthony (Anthony Herrerra), Actor, born in Wiggins, Stone County - Starred in several TV soap operas, including "As The World Turns" (Mark Galloway, James Stenbeck), "The Young and the Restless" (Jack Curtis), and "Search for Tomorrow" (Mike Kaslo). Also starred in several movies.
Herring, Fish (Alvin O. Herring), Musician, born in Hattiesburg, Forrest County - Jazz Trumpeter/composer
Hibbler, Al (Al Hibbler), Musician, born in Tyro, Tate County - A big band singer who sang with Jay McShann and Duke Ellington. During his solo career, he recorded with greats such as Count Basie, Harry Carney, and Gerald Wilson and, later, with Rahsaan Roland Kirk. He was one of the first widely famous blind singers. As a solo artist, Hibbler had a huge hit in 1955 with 'Unchained Melody.' His growling baritone voice was loved by millions.
Hill, Faith (Faith Hill), Musician, born in Star, Rankin County - Country & Western singer
Hinton, Milt (Milt Hinton), Musician, born in Vicksburg, Warren County - Jazz bassist. To jazz afficionados, he is a legend. "The Judge" has played with every major jazz star of his time including Cab Calloway, Dizzy Gillespie, Lionel Hampton, Count Basie, Clark Terry and many, many more.
Hodges, Eddie (Eddie Hodges), Actor, born in Hattiesburg, Forrest County - 1960s movie actor, with guest appearances on many TV shows, including Gunsmoke, Bonanza, Family Affair, The Dick Van Dyke Show, and Law and Order. His most notable role was the title role in the 1960 move, "The Adventures of Huckleberry Finn."
Hooker, Earl (Earl Hooker), Musician, born in Clarksdale, Coahoma County - Slide guitarist
Hooker, John Lee (John Lee Hooker), Musician, born in Clarksdale, Coahoma County - Blues guitarist/singer
Horton, Big Walter 'Shakey' (Walter Horton), Musician, born in Horn Lake, DeSoto County - Chicago blues harmonica player
House, Son (Eddie James, Jr.), Musician, born in Riverton, Coahoma County - Blues guitarist; noted as teacher of Robert Johnson
Hovis, Guy (Guy Hovis), Musician, born in Tupelo, Lee County - Singer on Lawrence Welk Show
Hull, Kent (Kent Hull), Sports Figure, lived in Greenwood, Leflore County - Starting Center for the Buffalo Bills - (4) trips to the super bowl, Centered for Jim Kelly, Doug Flute at the New Jersey Generals
Hurt, Mississippi John (John Hurt), Musician, born in Avalon or Teoc, Carroll County - Blues and folk singer/guitarist
James, Elmore (Elmore James), Musician, born in Canton, Madison County - Blues guitarist/singer
James, Neill (Neill James), Writer, born in Meridian, Lauderdale County
James, Skip (Nehemiah James), Musician, born in Bentonia, Yazoo County - Early blues guitarist who served as inspiration to both Robert Johnson and Eric Clapton.
Johanson, Jai Johanny (John Lee Johnson), Musician, born in Ocean Springs, Jackson County - AKA Jaimoe, was a drummer for the bands, Sea Level and The Allman Brothers Band.
Johnson, James 'Super Chicken' (James Johnson), Musician, born in Clarksdale, Coahoma County - Blues singer/guitarist
Johnson, Robert (Robert Spencer), Musician, born in Hazelhurst, Copiah County, lived in Greenwood, Leflore County - One of the most famous blues guitarists of all time. All blues guitar players eventually study his style. Allegedly sold his soul to the Devil in return for his unquestioned skill on guitar. The location, according to legend, was at a crossroads near Clarksdale, in Coahoma County. Died in Greenwood, when a jealous husband poisoned him.
Johnson, Stevie (Stevie Johnson), Sports Figure, was born or lived in Unknown, Perry County - Iowa State football player
Jones, James Earl (James Earl Jones), Actor, born in Arkabutla, Tate County - Shakespearean and movie actor; the "voice" of Darth Vader
Jones, Laurence C. (Laurence C. Jones), Educator, lived in Unknown, Simpson County - Founded Piney Woods Country Life School
Khali, Simbi (Simbi Khali), Actor, lived in Jackson, Hinds County
King, Albert (Albert King), Musician, born in Indianola, Sunflower County - Blues singer, guitarist, songwriter.
King, B.B. (Riley B. King), Musician, born in Indianola, Sunflower County - Blues singer, guitarist, songwriter; named his guitar Lucille.
Knobloch, Fred (Fred Knobloch), Musician, born in Jackson, Hinds County - Country singer/guitarist/songwriter
Ladd, Dianne (Dianne Ladd), Actor, born in Meridian, Lauderdale County - Starred in Charlie's Angels
Lamar, L.Q.C. (Lucius Quintus Cincinnatus Lamar), Statesman, lived in Oxford, Lafayette County - Early planter, congressman, writer, and statesman.
LaSalle, Denise (Denise LaSalle), Musician, born in Belzoni, Humphreys County - Soul & blues singer/songwriter
LeFlore, Greenwood (Greenwood LeFlore), Government Official, born in LeFleurs Bluff, Hinds County, lived in Malmaison, Carroll County - A wealthy planter of French and Choctaw ancestry, is known as "The last chief of the Choctaws East of the Mississippi" who negotiated the Treaty of Dancing Rabbit Creek, ceding the Choctaw lands to the United States
Lester, Tom (Tom Lester), Actor, born in Laurel, Jones County - Played Eb on Green Acres
Little Milton, (Milton Campbell, Jr.), Musician, born in Inverness, Sunflower County - Blues singer/guitarist
Lowe, Mundell (Mundell Lowe), Musician, born in Laurel, Jones County - Jazz guitarist
Malone, Bones (Tom Malone), Musician, born in Runnelstown, Perry County - Jazz/blues trombonist; sideman for the Blues Brothers; plays with Paul Shaffer's band on David Letterman Show.
Manning, Archie (Archie Manning), Sports Figure, born in Drew, Sunflower County - Famed quarterback and all-time leading rusher for Ole Miss and later for the New Orleans Saints. Watch for his record to fall to Deuce McAllister this fall.
McAllister, Deuce (Dulymus Jenod McAllister), Sports Figure, born in Morton, Scott County - Running back for Ole Miss; 2000 Heisman Trophy candidate and 2000 Doak Walker Award candidate. 2001 1st Round NFL draft pick for the New Orleans Saints.
McAnally, Mac (Mac McAnally), Musician, lived in Belmont, Tishomingo County - A hit songwriter, solo recording artist, much sought-after session player and top-tier producer
McClinton, O.B. (Obie Burnett McClinton), Musician, born in Senatobia, Tate County - Country singer; "Don't Let the Green Grass Fool You"
McDowell, Mississippi Fred (Mississippi Fred McDowell), Musician, born in Como, Panola County - Blues guitarist/singer
McPhail, Pam (Pam McPhail), Writer, born in Slate Spring, Calhoun County
McRaney, Gerald (Gerald McRaney), Actor, lived in Collins, Covington County - Simon & Simon, Major Dad, Promised Land
Meredith, James (James Meredith), Civil Rights Leader, born in Kosciusko, Attala County - First African American to attend the University of Mississippi
Mobley, Mary Ann (Mary Ann Mobley), Miss America, born in Brandon, Rankin County - Actress
Moore, Dorothy (Dorothy Moore), Musician, born in Jackson, Hinds County - Singer
Morris, Willie (William Morris), Writer, born in Jackson, Hinds County, lived in Yazoo City, Yazoo County - Prolific novelist, editor of the Texas Observer and Harper's Magazine, and a Rhodes Scholar. Three of his novels have been made into movies, including My Dog Skip, Ghosts of Mississippi, and The River Pirates.
Murphy, Matt "Guitar" (Matt Murphy), Musician, born in Sunflower, Sunflower County - Blues guitarist; original member of the Blues Brothers
Musselwhite, Charlie (Charles Douglas Musselwhite), Musician, born in Kosciusko, Attala County - Blues guitarist, singer
Myers, Sam (Sam Myers), Musician, born in Laurel, Jones County - Blues singer, harmonica player, and drummer
Nelson, Harry (Harry Nelson), Entrepreneur, born in Hattiesburg, Forrest County, lived in Jackson, Hinds County - Former DJ and Program Director at WRBC in Jackson. Now owns a national multi-media consulting company in Saco, Maine. Employed Bob Pittman during his tenure at WRBC.
Nelson, Sonny Boy (Eugene Powell), Musician, born in Utica, Hinds County, lived in Greenville, Washington County - Blues guitarist known for adding extra strings to his guitars, which produced a unique, and much-sought-after, style. He traveled for a time with the Mississippi Sheiks.
Newman, Steve (Steve Newman), Musician, lived in Jackson, Hinds County - Guitarist; venerable sideman for numerous pop, rock, country and blues bands, including The Bluz Boys and The Nick Parker Band
Norwood, Brandy (Brandy Norwood), Musician, born in McComb, Pike County - R&B and soul singer; also an actress, starring in her own TV show, Moesha.
Overstreet, Paul (Paul Overstreet), Musician, born in Newton, Newton County, lived in Vancleave, Jackson County - Singer/songwriter; wrote hits for Randy Travis, Tanya Tucker, Travis Tritt and others.
Paige, Rod (Rod Paige), Government Official, born in Monticello, Lawrence County - Appointed by President George W. Bush as Secretary of Education
Payton, Walter (Walter Payton), Sports Figure, born in Columbia, Marion County - Chicago Bears running back, NFL's all-time leading rusher and Hall of Famer; known to friends and fans as "Sweetness"
Peavey, Hartley (Hartley Peavey), Entrepreneur, born in Meridian, Lauderdale County - Founder of Peavey Electronics, now the largest supplier of musical instruments and amplifiers in the world.
Percy, Walker (Walker Percy), Writer, lived in Greenville, Washington County
Percy, William Alexander (William Alexander Percy), Poet, born in Greenville, Washington County
Perkins, Pinetop (Joe Willie Perkins), Musician, born in Belzoni, Humphreys County - Blues pianist
Perkins, Rev. John M. (Rev. John M. Perkins), Civil Rights Leader, lived in New Hebron, Lawrence County - Founder of Voice of Calvary Ministries
Peters, Ben (Ben Peters), Musician, born in Greenville, Washington County - Country songwriter
Pitchford, Lonnie (Lonnie Pitchford), Musician, born in Lexington, Holmes County - Blues guitarist and singer
Pittman, Bob (Robert Pittman), Entrepreneur, born in Brookhaven, Lincoln County, lived in Jackson, Hinds County - Creator of MTV and current president of America Online. Former DJ at WRBC in Jackson.
Presley, Elvis (Elvis Aaron Presley), Musician, born in Tupelo, Lee County - "King of Rock 'n Roll"
Price, Leontyne (Leontyne Price), Musician, born in Laurel, Jones County - Opera Singer
Pride, Charlie (Charlie Pride), Musician, born in Sledge, Quitman County - Country singer
Raspberry, William (William Raspberry), Writer, born in Okalona, Chickasaw County - Syndicated columnist
Revels, Hiram (Hiram Revels), Statesman, lived in Lorman, Jefferson County - First African American Senator and first president of Alcorn University, now Alcorn State University
Rice, Jerry (Jerry Rice), Sports Figure, born in Crawford, Lowndes County - Legendary wide receiver for the San Francisco 49ers
Richards, Beah (Beah Richards), Actor, born in Vicksburg, Warren County
Rimes, Leann (Margaret Rimes), Musician, born in Jackson, Hinds County - Country music singer
Roberts, Eric (Eric Roberts), Actor, born in Biloxi, Harrison County
Roberts, Robin (Robin Roberts), TV/Radio/Media Personality, born in Pass Christian, Harrison County - Sports announcer for ABC and ESPN.
Rodgers, Jimmie (James Rodgers), Musician, born in Meridian, Lauderdale County - Singer, guitarist, songwriter; known variously as "The Father of Country Music," "The Singing Brakeman," and "The Blue Yodeler."
Rodney, Thomas (Thomas Rodney), Government Official, was born or lived in Unknown, Jefferson County - Revolutionary War veteran and early territorial judge. Town of Rodney was named after him.
Russell, Johnny (Johnny Russell), Musician, born in Moorhead, Sunflower County - Singer and songwriter
Salem, Cheryl Prewitt (Cheryl Prewitt Salem), Miss America, born in Ackerman, Choctaw County
Shea, Lynda Lee Mead (Lynda Lee Mead Shea), Miss America, born in Natchez, Adams County
Smith, Frederick W. (Frederick W. Smith), Entrepreneur, born in Marks, Quitman County - Founder and co-chairman of Fed-Ex Corporation
Spears, Britney (Britney Spears), Musician, lived in McComb, Pike County - Singer
Stevens, Stella (Stella Stevens), Actor, born in Hot Coffee, Covington County
Stewart, Lisa (Lisa Stewart), Musician, born in Louisville, Winston County - Singer
Still, William Grant (William Grant Still), Musician, born in Eden, Yazoo County - Composer
Street, James (James Street), Writer, born in Lumberton, Lamar County
Stuart, Marty (Marty Stuart), Musician, born in Philadelphia, Neshoba County - Country singer, songwriter, and guitarist
Sunnyland Slim, (Albert Laundrew), Musician, born in Vance, Quitman County - Blues singer
Tartt, Donna (Donna Tartt), Writer, born in Greenwood, Leflore County
Taylor, Fingers (Greg Taylor), Musician, born in Jackson, Hinds County - Singer and harmonica player; famed as one of Jimmy Buffett's Coral Reefer Band
Taylor, Johnnie (Johnnie Taylor), Musician, lived in Jackson, Hinds County - Versatile singer, who sang blues, pop, doo wopp, gospel, Memphis Soul and disco; originally from Arkansas, he signed with Malaco Records later in his career.
Taylor, Mildred D. (Mildred D. Taylor), Writer, born in Jackson, Hinds County - 1977 Newberry Award Winner
Thibodeaux, Keith (Keith Thibodeaux), Actor, lived in Laurel, Jones County, lived in Jackson, Hinds County - Played Little Ricky on I Love Lucy. Long-time drummer for Laurel rock & gospel band, David and the Giants, recording 12 albums with them.
Thomas, Son (James Thomas), Musician, born in Eden, Yazoo County - Blues guitarist/singer
Truly, Richard (Richard Truly), Astronaut, born in Meridian, Lauderdale County - NASA Administrator
Tupelo Slim, ( Tupelo Slim), Musician, born in Tupelo, Lee County - Blues piano player
Turner, Ike (Ike Turner), Musician, born in Clarksdale, Coahoma County - R&B singer, half of famed duo, Ike and Tina Turner
Twitty, Conway (Harold Lloyd Jenkins), Musician, born in Friars Point, Coahoma County - Country singer
Vinson, Walter (Walter Vinson), Musician, born in Bolton, Hinds County - Accomplished blues guitarist and member of the 1930s band, the Mississippi Sheiks, along with the Chatmon brothers, Sam, Lonnie, and Bo.
Walker, Margaret (Margaret Walker Alexander), Poet, lived in Jackson, Hinds County
Walston, Ray (Ray Walston), Actor, born in Laurel, Jones County - Star of TV's My Favorite Martian
Ward, Sela (Sela Ward), Actor, born in Meridian, Lauderdale County - Star of TV shows, "Sisters" and ABC's "Once and Again"; high-flying pitchman for Sprint
Waters, Muddy (McKinley Morganfield), Musician, born in Rolling Fork, Sharkey County - Blues singer, guitarist, songwriter, bottleneck slide guitar, harmonica, Electric Chicago Blues, early influence on Rock 'n Roll
Wells, Ida B. (Ida B. Wells-Barnett), Civil Rights Leader, born in Holly Springs, Marshall County - A Memphis newspaper editor and writer. Later, in Chicago, formed the 'Women's Era Club,' which was renamed the Ida B. Wells Club, in her honor. Was an early member of the Committee of 40, the forerunner of the NAACP, the oldest Civil Rights organization in America.
Welty, Eudora (Eudora Welty), Writer, born in Jackson, Hinds County - Writer, photographer, PR agent for the WPA, 1973 winner of Pulitzer Prize
White, Willye B. (Willye B. White), Sports Figure, born in Money, Leflore County - Olympic long jumper, winner of two Olympic Silver Medals, and the first woman to compete in five different Olympiads
Williams, Tennessee (Thomas Lanier Williams), Playwright, born in Columbus, Lowndes County - Regarded as America's greatest playwright; won the 1948 Pulitzer Prize for A Streetcar Named Desire
Williamson II, Sonny Boy (Aleck Rice Miller), Musician, born in Glendora, Tallahatchie County - Blues harmonica player
Wilson, Cassandra (Cassandra Wilson), Musician, born in Jackson, Hinds County - Jazz singer
Wilson, Mary (Mary Wilson), Musician, born in Greenwood, Leflore County - Soul and pop singer; original member of the Supremes
Winfrey, Oprah (Oprah Winfrey), TV/Radio/Media Personality, born in Kosciusco, Attala County - Oprah Winfrey Show
Winter, Johnny (Johnny Winter), Musician, born in Leland, Washington County - Blues and rock singer and guitarist
Wiseman, Craig (Craig Wiseman), Musician, born in Hattiesburg, Forrest County - Country songwriter and drummer
Wolf, Howlin' (Chester A. Burnett), Musician, born in White Station, Clay County - Blues singer, guitarist, songwriter, Electric Chicago Blues
Workman, Nannette (Nannette Workman), Musician, was born or lived in Jackson, Hinds County - Popular Canadian singing star
Worsham, Charlie (Charlie Worsham), Musician, born in Jackson, Hinds County - Plays fiddle, banjo and piano, appeared on the Grand Ole Opry at age 14.
Wright, Richard (Richard Wright), Writer, born in Natchez, Adams County, lived in Jackson, Hinds County - One of the 20th Century's best-known novelists
Wright, Unita Blackwell (Unita Blackwell Wright), Politician, born in Lula, Coahoma County, lived in Mayersville, Issaquena County - Mississippi's first black female mayor, elected in 1977 to serve the town of Mayersville
Wynette, Tammy (Virginia Wynette Pugh), Musician, lived in Tremont, Itawamba County - First Lady of Country Music; sources differ on whether Ms. Wynette was born in Fulton, Tremont, or in Red Bay, Alabama.
Young, Johnny (Johnny Young), Musician, born in Vicksburg, Warren County - Blues mandolin/singer; Chicago Blues player.
Young, Stark (Stark Young), Writer, born in Como, Panola County, lived in Oxford, Lafayette County - Novelist, poet, painter, essayist, editor, playwright, and critic.
Ziglar, Zig (Zig Ziglar), Motivational Speaker, born in Yazoo City, Yazoo County