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CAMILLA, Ga. (WALB) - Funeral arrangements have been announced for former Camilla Mayor Mary Jo Haywood, who died Friday.

Haywood died Friday, April 24, at Willson Hospice House, according to Robert Jester Mortuary, Inc.

Haywood served as Camilla mayor from 2008 to 2012. She was the first woman and first African American to serve as mayor of the city.

In February 2024, the City of Camilla renamed its Executive Meeting Chamber and Main Lobby in City Hall in her honor. The commissioners and meetings are now housed in the “Honorable Mary Jo Haywood Council Chambers.”

At the dedication ceremony Feb. 29, 2024, then-Mayor Kevin Owens presented a proclamation to Haywood. Her daughter Dr. Chanta Haywood accepted on her behalf.

Haywood said at the time, “It means that the Plans of God are working. I am overcome with joy that I have lived long enough to see the fulfillment of so many of God’s plans for Our people.”

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