We regretfully announce the passing of Mr. Cleveland Bedgood Jr., age 92 of Newnan, Ga. on Thursday, May 1, 2025 at Piedmont Newnan Hospital.

Funeral Services will be held at 11:00 AM on Wednesday, May 7, 2025, St. Paul CME Church located at 463 Sewell Road in Grantville, Georgia 30220.
Rev. Montavious Brinson, Pastor and Pastor James Clements Jr.,( Shy Temple CME Church, Atlanta, Georgia), Eulogist.

Interment will follow in the Elmwood Cemetery located at 600 Martin Luther King Jr. Drive, Birmingham, Alabama 35211.

Public viewing will be held on Tuesday from 11:00 AM to 7:00 PM at the Funeral Home.

IN LIEU OF FLOWERS PLEASE MAKE DONATIONS TO ST. PAUL CME CHURCH

Cleveland Bedgood, Jr., a native of Birmingham, Alabama, passed away
suddenly and peacefully on May 1, 2025. Born to the late Cleveland Bedgood, Sr.,
and Beatrice Bennett Bedgood, he was one of five children in a family that valued
education, faith, and community service.

Cleveland’s journey began in the Birmingham Public School System, where he
graduated from the renowned A.H. Parker High School. His academic pursuits
led him to Jarvis Christian College in Hawkins, Texas, under the guidance of his
uncle, William Walter Bennett, Sr. While at Jarvis, Cleveland not only excelled in
his studies, earning a Bachelor of Science degree in Biology, but also showcased his
athletic talents on the football field.

Following his graduation, Cleveland was drafted into the U.S. Army, where he served
for two years before being honorably discharged. Upon returning to Birmingham, he
embarked on a career as a mail carrier, a role that reflected his dedication to serving
his community.

Cleveland was united in Holy Matrimony to the late Betty Ann Phillips. Their union
was blessed with three children, and together, Cleveland and Betty pursued careers in
education. Their commitment to teaching led them to the Meriwether County School
System in Georgia, where they made a lasting impact on countless students.

The Bedgood family settled in the Lone Oak and St. Mark communities, where
Cleveland’s influence continued to grow. He taught Biology at Greenville Consolidated
High School and Greenville High School before advancing to administrative roles
as Assistant Principal at Woodbury High School and Hogansville High School. His
career culminated in his role as Principal of Luthersville Elementary School, where
he left an indelible mark on the school and its students.

Cleveland’s dedication to education was matched by his commitment to lifelong
learning. He earned Master’s degrees from Atlanta University and West Georgia
College, continually seeking to expand his knowledge and skills. His passion for
service extended beyond the classroom, as he became an active member of numerous
organizations. Cleveland was a Life Member of Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity,
Incorporated, and a member of 100 Black Men of West Georgia. He also contributed
to the Meriwether County Democratic Party, the Meriwether County Lions Club, and
the Meriwether County Zoning Commission.

A man of deep faith, Cleveland’s spiritual journey began at Trinity Baptist Church
in Birmingham. He later joined St. Paul C.M.E. Church in Lone Oak, where he was
a dedicated member of the Male Chorus and served on both the Steward Board and
the Trustee Board.

Cleveland Bedgood, Jr., leaves behind a legacy of love, dedication, and service. He is
survived by his three children: Terri Lynne Bedgood, Candace Anita Bedgood Stiles
(Raymond), and Richard Rene Bedgood (Michele); six grandchildren, Annelise Stiles,
Marissa Stiles (David), Suzanne Stiles, Rachel Stiles, Richard (Quade) Bedgood IV,
and Peyton Bedgood; and one great-grandchild, Elara Bette Stiles. He also leaves a
host of beloved nieces, nephews, cousins, fraternity brothers, and friends who will
cherish his memory.
Cleveland’s life was a testament to the power of education, the importance of
community, and the strength of faith. His legacy will continue to inspire all who
knew him.

Arrangements entrusted to Thrash and Sons Funeral Home.