Livingstone College typically chooses an alumnus who has made significant contributions to the college and society to serve as grand marshal of its annual homecoming parade.
This year, the school chose three for that honor.
On Oct. 18, Richella Tillery Walker, Fannie Tillery Butler and Althea Tillery Becton ó the Tillery sisters ó surveyed the parade from a horse-drawn carriage.
In addition to being grand marshals, the sisters celebrated their status as Livingstone Golden Graduates, a category the college says is not enjoyed by many families with more than one graduate from the 129-year-old college.
The Tillery sisters grew up in a large family in eastern North Carolina. Their parents insisted they all get an education and contribute to society.
All the Tillery sisters retired after teaching careers, 10 years apart from each other.
Butler still lives in Salisbury, Walker lives in Morehead City and Becton lives in Havelock. Each has two children and a host of grandchildren and great-grandchildren.
This year marked the first time Livingstone selected a family of graduates to lead the homecoming parade.
The Tillery sisters also remain active in the Livingstone College Alumni Association, the A.M.E. Zion Church and organizations in their communities.