2026 Honorees
John Marshal Latimore
Johnathan Marshal Latimore entered into rest on August 1, 2025, in Atlanta, GA. He is cherished by family, friends and connections and leaves behind a legacy of passion and creativity that touched countless lives.
John—known to many as John Marshal and affectionately as Buddy Road by his dad—was a vibrant force in radio, entertainment, and beyond. He began his education at Romar Academy in East Point, GA, where he thrived—excelling academically, making lasting friendships, and finding ‘his voice’. He later attended The Heiskell School and graduated from Campbell High School. Afterwards, John studied at Morehouse College, Georgia Perimeter College/Georgia State University to further explore his passion for media and entertainment. For several years, John worked with one of his college professors at Georgia Perimeter/Georgia State University during a five-week summer course at Harvard as a Creative Director in the Division of Continuing Education. He earned this position beating over 1500 candidates and worked with such brands as: BMW, Netflix, Amazon, Dunkin, Campbell Soup, American Express, Harley Davidson, and Nike. He was posthumously recognized in 2025 for his contributions to the global community by the Division of Continuing Education at Harvard.
With a strong desire to be a part of the radio industry, in 2008, John walked several miles each way to his local radio station just to demonstrate how much he wanted to work there. His pursuit of radio excellence led to an elevated level of recognition as a Hip Hop radio announcer in the Columbus and Atlanta markets. He was quickly recognized as the 2017 Full-Time Radio Personality of the Year in Columbus, GA. Later in Atlanta, John became a Traffic Reporter for Total Traffic & Weather Network, followed by News Anchor for the Black Information Network. While reporting for BIN, his deep, resonant voice was heard in over 40 radio markets nationwide. Whether introducing a new urban artist, delivering the news, giving a traffic update, or doing voice-over for a local business, his voice was instantly recognizable.
Never one to stand still, even during COVID, John entered the fast-paced world of gaming, co-founding Give Up The Sticks, or GUTS G-League, a registered trademark esports league. Aside from the gaming tournaments the company created, he and his business partner developed programming to teach children aging out of the foster care system in Florida how to earn income through gaming. This fulfilled his passion for the industry and desire to help the next generation. He never lost his love for the video game industry and further lent his expertise to Immersive Gamebox, an interactive group gaming company. As General Manager of one of the approximate 30 USA outlets of Immersive Gamebox, he built a passionate team and, within a year, turned his location into one of the most successful in the country. In addition, John returned to his Hip Hop roots as a radio personality for Streetz 94.5. At the same time, he was laying the groundwork for his own media and entertainment company. Just days before his transition, John launched his website, a digital hub for all things John Marshal, including details of his first late night talk show, Kickin’ It With John Marshal, which was set to launch September 1, 2025. He relentlessly pursued his dream with vision and determination.
John’s greatest joy was his family. He had unconditional and eternal love for his children, Jadyn Elijah, and Nova Jeanelle. He also cherished the opportunities he had to work with other children—especially through ‘I Wanna Be on the Radio! – A Career Day with John Marshal’. This was a day long program he created at iHeart for middle schoolers to explore all things radio. His kindness, patience, and ability to make children feel valued left a lasting mark on the young lives he touched, and they in turn did the same for him. When John interviewed Georgia leaders at St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital for his podcast, he was inspired by the work being done and shared that one day he wanted to support their cause.
John will be remembered not only for his talent and ambition, but also for his deep love of family. He proudly emceed the July 2025 McLaughlin Family Reunion—a gathering many said was the best yet. That was John, the one who made everyone feel seen, heard, and valued.
Though his time with us was far too short, John’s impact will be felt for years to come. His voice, vision, and spirit live on in all of us who were blessed to know him.
Annie Lee Banks
Annie Lee Banks, better known as "Nanny" was born on January 28, 1932 in Waynesboro, Mississippi to the late Charlie and Clara McLaughlin. Raised in modest home, Annie embraced the principles of diligence and empathy from a young age. Despite lacking formal education, her sharp mind and entrepreneurial spirit led her to operate Banks Grocery for 50 plus years, a community cornerstone where she was affectionately known for her "Nanny Burgers." More than just a store, it was a haven where everyone was treated like family.
Annie was a beacon of compassion and support, embodying her mantra of "serving people and loving everyone." She often extended credit to those in need, ensuring no one left her store empty handed. Her selflessness transformed the grocery into a symbol of hope and community solidarity.
Her faith was the cornerstone of her life. An active church member, she served as President of the Pastor's Aid Club. She organized colorama events and festive occasions that brought the community together and raised funds for church activities.
In addition to being a business owner, Annie was the first black supervisor at Solomon Brothers Manufacturing in Needham, AL. She was a nurturing wife, dedicated mother, affectionate grandmother, proud great-grandmother, and great-great grandmother. Her family was her world, just as she was theirs.
Claudia Banks
Our Beloved McLaughlin Matriarch.
Bio is forthcoming.