Merrehope

Still Blooming at 90 🌸
Barbara Sue Williams’ “Still Blooming at 90” birthday celebration was every bit as joyful, beautiful, and full of warmth as the dear lady being honored. We were absolutely thrilled that her family chose historic Merrehope to celebrate this very special milestone.
From the moment guests arrived, it was clear that no detail had been overlooked. The home was beautifully decorated with lovely floral touches, charming details, and thoughtful accents, all carefully chosen to honor Barbara Sue. The festive setting made Merrehope the perfect place to gather, reminisce, laugh, and make even more memories.
And the food was every bit as special! The beautifully presented tables were a feast for the eyes as well as the palate, with specially chosen treats beautifully arranged. And, of course, Barbara Sue added one of her own special touches by making her famous tea cakes—a sweet tradition and a heartfelt gift from the birthday girl herself.
A hand-painted banner welcomed you and hand-painted pottery crosses and hearts made especially for this celebration went home with you. It truly was a celebration filled with love, friendship, family, laughter, and so many special memories. What a joy to celebrate a remarkable woman who continues to bloom beautifully at 90!
Thank you for choosing Merrehope. 🌸

A Family Story Comes Full Circle at Merrehope
In 1859, Richard McLemore, one of the first settlers of Meridian, deeded 160 of his 700 acres to his daughter, Juriah, as a wedding gift. That same year, Juriah and her husband, William H. Jackson, built a charming Greek Revival cottage—the original portion of what we know today as Merrehope. Parts of that historic cottage still stand today!
Recently, Gulf Breeze, Florida residents Richard and Vickie McLemore visited Merrehope for the very first time—and they brought something truly special with them: a family tree tracing their lineage all the way back to 1663.
What a wonderful opportunity to connect the past with the present! Exploring family trees can uncover fascinating connections, namesakes, and stories that help bring history to life. We were delighted to welcome Richard and Vickie and learn more about their family’s connection to Merrehope.
Come discover your own connection to history. Visit Merrehope and step back in time!
Pictured with Merrehope Hostess Tiffney Spence.

Kindness, respect for others, and proper table manners were the focus of “Manners Matter,” presented by Merrehope with etiquette instructor Lindley Davis Brawner.
Fifth, sixth, and seventh grade students participated in two sold-out, hands-on sessions where they learned and practiced valuable life skills. We commend each student for their enthusiasm, participation, and willingness to engage throughout the program.
We also extend our sincere thanks to the parents for investing in your children’s personal growth and character development.
When planning this program, Merrehope sought a presenter with a versatile approach that could be tailored to different age groups. Lindley was the perfect choice, and we look forward to partnering with her again for future Manners Matter events.
Although we were unable to accommodate everyone who wanted to attend, we hope to offer additional sessions in the future. If you or someone you know—of any age—is interested in participating in future Manners Matter programs, please contact us at 601-484-8439 or [email protected].
A special thank you goes to our local media for helping spread the word and to our incredible Friends of Merrehope volunteers. Your dedication and support make these programs possible.
You make it happen! ❤️

We are looking forward to day two of Manners Matter. Merrehope welcomed students and our talented instructor Lindley Davis Brawner.

What an overwhelming response!! Both sessions of Manners Matter are FULL!!

Looking to schedule more in the future -
What age group(s) would you like to suggest??

UPDATE: BOOKED FULL Wednesday & Thursday
Thank you to everyone for the incredible response to Manners Matter Presented by Merrehope! We are so grateful for your enthusiasm and support.
Wednesday’s session is now FULL!
There are only a few spots remaining for the Thursday, July 30 session, so don’t wait to reserve your child’s place!
Students entering 5th through 7th grade will build confidence and learn valuable life skills in this fun, interactive etiquette class taught by popular instructor Lindley Davis Brawner of Corinth. Participants will learn everyday manners, respectful communication, dining etiquette, and social skills in an engaging environment.
• Thursday, July 30
• 11:00 a.m.–1:00 p.m.
• $65 registration fee (includes a three-course meal)
Advance registration is required. To register, call 601-483-8439 or email [email protected]. Payment reserves your child’s space.
We can’t wait to welcome our next group of students to historic Merrehope!

UPDATE: BOOKED FULL Wednesday & Thursday
Thank you to everyone for the incredible response to Manners Matter Presented by Merrehope! We are so grateful for your enthusiasm and support.
Wednesday’s session is now FULL!
There are only a few spots remaining for the Thursday, July 30 session, so don’t wait to reserve your child’s place!
Students entering 5th through 7th grade will build confidence and learn valuable life skills in this fun, interactive etiquette class taught by popular instructor Lindley Davis Brawner of Corinth. Participants will learn everyday manners, respectful communication, dining etiquette, and social skills in an engaging environment.
• Thursday, July 30
• 11:00 a.m.–1:00 p.m.
• $65 registration fee (includes a three-course meal)
Advance registration is required. To register, call 601-483-8439 or email [email protected]. Payment reserves your child’s space.
We can’t wait to welcome our next group of students to historic Merrehope!

Helping "MAKE IT HAPPEN" at Merrehope
A sincere thank you to Dusty Pledges Elizabeth Rose Pollard and Makenzie Sweatt for helping "MAKE IT HAPPEN" at Merrehope!
As part of their service hours, these lovely young ladies volunteered over two days cleaning bay windows and helping replace the curtain sheers upstairs in the Bride's Room and Periwinkle Room. They completed every task with willing hearts, positive attitudes, and smiles on their faces. It was a pleasure to have them with us, and we are grateful for their hard work.
You can "MAKE IT HAPPEN" at Merrehope, too! We welcome volunteers year-round for a variety of projects. Send us a message here, call 601-483-8439, email [email protected] or stop by 905 MLK Jr. Dr. to learn how you can get involved.

ATTENTION: Parents Register your child.
Manners Matter Presented By Merrehope
•Wednesday, July 29, 2026
4 pm to 6 pm
•Thursday, July 30, 2026
11 am to 1 pm
• Merrehope, 905 MLK Jr. Dr., Meridian, MS 39301
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Students entering 5th through 7th grade are invited to build confidence and learn valuable life skills at Manners Matter, presented by Merrehope. Taught by popular etiquette instructor Lindley Davis Brawner of Corinth, this interactive class covers everyday manners, respectful communication, dining etiquette, and social skills in a fun, engaging environment. Participants may choose from two sessions being held at historic Merrehope: Wednesday, July 29, from 4–6 p.m., or Thursday, July 30, from 11 a.m.–1 p.m. The $65 registration fee includes a 3 course meal. Advance registration is required by calling 601-483-8439 or emailing [email protected]. Payment reserves your child’s space.