Honor Herbert Neil D'Anjou's Legacy

Honoring the Legacy of Herbert Neil D'Anjou

Herbert Neil D'Anjou, affectionately known as "Herb," passed away peacefully at the age of 93 on July 8, 2024, in Jackson, Mississippi. Born on May 1, 1931, in Georgetown, Guyana, Herb was the beloved son of Alfred and Ruth D'Anjou and the younger brother of George D'Anjou.

From a young age, Herb displayed a passion for learning and community involvement. As a child, he enjoyed playing soccer, croquet, and participating in church activities with his father, a preacher. By the age of 14, he had already become an electrician. In his 20s, he relocated to the United States, staying with his beloved “Cousin Dolly” D’Anjou. Herb pursued higher education with determination, earning a degree in Electrical Engineering from Kentucky State University and a Master's Degree in Education from Wayne State University.

In the late 1970s, Herb made a significant impact on the Alcorn community, working as an Instructor and Head of Buildings and Grounds at Alcorn State University. He also managed the family business, "Patton's Grocery Since 1880," in Lorman, Mississippi. Under his visionary leadership, the business expanded into a mega center, including an auto parts and repair division, a game room, an event center for students, a community daycare, two restaurants, a convenience store, and a gas station. He later developed a student housing complex nearby and purchased land and a gas station in Vicksburg, Mississippi, where the current casino now sits. Additionally, he acquired the "3 Way Grocery" store in Vicksburg, Mississippi.

Herb was not only a community leader but also a visionary who wanted the very best for his family and community. He was a strict disciplinarian, an ardent educator, and an avid supporter of Alcorn State University. In 1987, he founded H&M Contractors, serving the Jackson, Mississippi area for nearly 30 years. He mentored many young men in apprenticeships, teaching them skills in heating and air, electrical work, and basic home and commercial repair, helping them start their own businesses.

Herb stressed the importance of education and loved discussing philosophy and politics. He was a big fan of the New Orleans Saints and Alcorn State football and enjoyed swimming, bowling, and ping pong. He loved traveling the world and often visited his native Guyana to support his family, bringing several family members to the United States, including his mother.

Herb was wise, highly educated, charismatic, charming, and courageous. He left an incredible legacy through his six sons, who have become good men with kind hearts. Although not perfect, they embody the values and principles Herb instilled in them.

Finally, Herb was a preacher, his father was a preacher, and he married a former nun. He believed in God and respected anyone who also respected God and His plan for their life. With God backing your plan, Herb would simply say, “Plan your work, and work your plan.”

We invite you to honor Herb's memory and legacy by contributing to the Herbert Neil D'Anjou Memorial Fund. Your support will help continue his mission of education, community development, and mentorship, ensuring his values and vision live on.

Thank you for your generosity and for helping us celebrate the remarkable life of Herb D'Anjou.