On February 18th, McCabe United Methodist Church hosted its seventh annual James B. Sanderlin Black History Award Ceremony, honoring individuals who have made significant contributions to the community. This year, the prestigious award was posthumously bestowed upon Dr. Reginald Ligon, a beloved figure known for his dedication to his family and tireless efforts in bettering the St. Petersburg community.
Dr. Ligon’s journey began in Terre Haute, Indiana, where he was born on October 3, 1950, to Margaret and Julius Ligon Sr. From a young age, he excelled academically and athletically, distinguishing himself as a gifted student and talented athlete. His passion for sports, particularly football, basketball, fishing, and marksmanship, shaped his character and instilled in him a strong sense of discipline and determination.
After completing his dental school prerequisites at Indiana State University, Dr. Ligon pursued his dental education at Meharry Medical College School of Dentistry, specializing in dental implantology. Following in the footsteps of his brother, Julius Ligon Jr., Dr. Ligon relocated to Florida, where he established a successful dental practice alongside his wife, Mendee.
Dr. Ligon’s impact extended far beyond the realm of dentistry. Immersing himself in the St. Petersburg community, he became actively involved in various civic and social organizations, including Leadership St. Pete and the St. Petersburg Suncoasters, where he eventually served as president. His commitment to community service was unparalleled, as evidenced by his role as the founding trustee of Freedom Bank of America and his involvement in organizations such as the St. Petersburg Community Alliance and the American Cancer Society Relay for Life Campaign.
Throughout his life, Dr. Ligon remained dedicated to serving others, particularly those in underserved communities. He volunteered his time and expertise, offering dental services to individuals without insurance and supporting initiatives aimed at improving access to healthcare for marginalized populations. His altruistic spirit and unwavering dedication to philanthropy earned him widespread admiration and respect.
In addition to his civic contributions, Dr. Ligon was an active member of McCabe United Methodist Church, where he served in various leadership roles, including finance chairperson. He was also a proud member of Alpha Phi Alpha, Inc. Fraternity, where he played a pivotal role in implementing youth programs and fostering community engagement.
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As the McCabe United Methodist Church honors Dr. Reginald Ligon’s legacy, his impact on the St. Petersburg community serves as a testament to the power of compassion, service, and leadership. His memory will continue to inspire future generations to make a positive difference in the lives of others and uphold the values of community and fellowship.