04/23/2026
Today was such a meaningful day in Elizabeth, LA.
Today, we celebrated and , as we gathered for our "Planted in Love" memorial.
We didn't just put roots in the ground today; we took a quiet step back in time to say 'thank you' to those who dedicated more than a decade of their lives to public service. By honoring them, we are nurturing the seeds of progress they planted for the community we are so proud to call home today. 🌳✨
At Town Hall:
We planted Satsuma, and Plum trees 🍊🍑.
To me, these fruit trees represent the "harvest" we enjoy today. They stand in honor of those who gave more than a decade of their lives to Elizabeth, LA—their long-term service is the reason our community continues to bear fruit.
At Finke Park:
We planted a Red Oak and a Magnolia—symbols of the enduring strength and beauty of our history.
(The Red Oak):
The Red Oak at Finke Park is dedicated to two individuals who made history here in Elizabeth, LA. 
•Mr. Henry Carston (1977–1994): Our first Black Councilman, who gave 17 years of his life to open doors for all who would follow.
•Mrs. Shirley Faye Smith (2003–2018): As our first Black Councilwoman, Mrs. Shirley Faye Smith did not just make history—she became a defining light for her family and the community. For 16 years, her unwavering leadership remains a testament to what is possible when dedication meets deep love for one’s community.
Just as the oak stands firm through the seasons, their years of commitment provide a lasting foundation for the future of Elizabeth, LA.
A Promise Kept (The Magnolia):
The new Magnolia at Finke Park is more than just a tree; it is a promise. For many years, our community was cared for by Dr. Osborn, whose kindness left a mark on so many people’s lives. Years ago, a memorial planted in his honor was lost. His wife, Mrs. Osborn, carried a wish in her heart to see that tribute restored. Though she has since gone to join him, today we made sure her wish was fulfilled. We planted this Magnolia not just for the Doctor, but for both of them—returning their legacy of care to the very park Mrs. Osborn loved so much.
Honoring Decades of Sacrifice:
While I am so thankful for everyone who has stepped up to serve for even for a few years, these fruit-bearing trees at Town Hall are a personal "thank you" to those who made Elizabeth their life’s work.
As we remember the rare endurance:
•Mayor Robert "Bobby" Crafton
(20 years, 1998–2018)
•Mayor Warren Clark
(17 years, 1981–1998)
•Town Clerk Marie Beeson
(19 years, 1985–2004)
•Councilman Clifford Fontenot
(12 years, 1964–1976)
•Councilman Louis Jeans
(13 years, 1967–1980)
•Councilman L.C. Gill
(13 years, 1965–1978)
•Councilman Lawrence Crawford
(11 years 1965-1969, 1986 - 1993)
Please Note:
Going through old records to find these names and dates was a true labor of love. If we missed someone due to gaps in our history, please know it wasn't intentional.
Send us a Facebook message to correct the unintentional oversight- We value everyone who serves our community.
As Mayor, I carry the spirit of every person who served our community in my heart.
I would also like to say a huge THANK YOU to the families who shared these wonderful people with us for so many years.
Sincerely,
Mayor Mandy L. Green
