Howard Zebulun Plummer

Background

His father, William H. Plummer, joined the Church of God and Saints of Christ soon after Howard’s birth, and the Plummer family became intimately involved in its doctrine and work.

Career

Crowdy observed that throughout the blessing, Howard looked directly at him and reportedly said, "Plummer, this boy is looking down my throat and taking in every word I say. Someday, he is going to be a great preacher."

Following his ordination, he became affectionately known as "Elder Howard" to all of his friends and the membership. Also in 1917, his father appointed him General Superintendent of the Sabbath Schools.

Plummer led this congregation for over 43 years, ending his tenure in 1975.

Rabbi Plummer"s religious life embraced contact with many of the country"s leading ministers and educators and collaboration with them in numerous activities. Rabbi Howard Z. Plummer was noted for his humanitarian efforts, including

Grand Master, Grand Lodge of Virginia, Public Housing Administration

Member Phi Beta Sigma fraternity (initiated at Alpha Alpha, Wilberforce University)

Member, Board of Directors Norfolk State College Foundation (This board financially assisted in the formulation of Norfolk State University, Norfolk, Virginia)

Past President, Interracial Interdenominational Hampton Ministers Conference, 1954.

lieutenant was during his administration that Doctor Gardner Taylor and Doctor Martin Luther King, Junior. made one of their memorable appearances as Conference Preachers.

Achievements

• In August, 1900, Howard"s parents brought him to be blessed by the Church’s founder, prophet William S. Crowdy. His earnest and productive accomplishments resulted in his being awarded the Doctor of Divinity Degree by Wilberforce University, Wilberforce, Ohio, in 1944.