Tag Archives: Earlean Isaac

Countywide program honors retired Probate Judge Earlean Isaac for lifetime of services

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Shown L to R: Sons, Johnny Jr, and Jamaine, Judge Earlean Isaac, husband, former Sheriff  Johnny L. Isaac and daughter Janetha Isaac

On Sunday, February 11, 2024, the Greene County Commission and the Greene County Historical Society jointly honored retired Probate Judge, Earlean Isaac, with a celebratory program for a half century of service to Greene County and its residents. There was a standing room only crowd of more than 200 people who filled the courtroom.
Judge Isaac with the Greene County Commission unveiled a portrait of the judge to be hung in the Courthouse corridor leading to the Probate Judge’s office.
The Greene County Historical Society unveiled a brass historical plaque to be displayed on the Courthouse Square to honor Judge Isaac.
Judge Isaac came from a large family in the Forkland area of Greene County. She served for 17 years as assistant and chief clerk for Judge William M. Branch, the first Black Probate Judge of Greene County and then 30 years as the elected Probate Judge. Judge Isaac was the first Black female Probate Judge and second Black Probate Judge in the nation.
The program included greetings and comments from the current Probate Judge, Rolanda Wedgeworth, who was represented by Mia Jordan, her chief clerk. Former Probate Judge Judy Spree also spoke. Three prior Circuit Clerks – Johnnie Knott, Etta Edwards and Mattie Atkins added greetings.
Sheriff Jonathan Benison and former Sheriff Johnny L. Isaac, who is Judge Earlean’s husband, also added greetings. Commissioners Cockrell, Spencer and Turner helped unveil the portrait. Spiver W. Gordon, speaking on behalf of the Civil Rights Movement urged everyone present, Black and White, to “work together to move everything that was wrong to everything right.”
Lloyd Dawe of the Greene County Historical Society unveiled the bronze plaque honoring Isaac.
In her closing remarks, Judge Isaac acknowledged God, her family, and friends for their support and assistance over the years. She also indicated that the day of the program was her 74th birthday, which made it extra special to her.