July 29, 2014 - Sept. 8, 2014 Born July 29, 1953 to Gloria Dean McGhee and Randis Chatman, his birth added an "extra bright light of illumination" to this world! Right from the start, he knew what he wanted to do in life. When all of the other children were asked, "What do you want to be when you grow up?" Julian would proudly answer, "I want to be a "funeral home" man"! Growing up under conditions that were not always favorable, he found a way to constantly "be happy" and to make others smile. Young and old alike, loved him! He made and left a "Booming" impact in every place that he went and "on every life" that he touched…. Thus earning him the nickname of "Boomie", as he is so "affectionately" called by many. He was born "Energetic", inquisitive and curious. He loved learning, helping people and "eating" good foods. Growing up during the 60's, he was a "household commodity" for the entire neighborhood. Usually, after eating at home, he could be found at any of the neighbors' houses eating dinner with them, too (especially with Mrs. Annie Mae Harris and Mrs. Jimmie Hooks). His second home away from home became "Muh's" house, as he so fondly called Mrs. Hooks. He loved "Muh Hooks" and she loved him. Mrs. Rosa (Pipe) Boykin was a True "neighborhood watch" mother! She kept Boomie straight because he was a True "neighborhood", high-spirited character! Boomie's Christian training began in the home of his grandmother, Bertha Mae "Big Mama" McGhee, with whom most of the grandchildren resided (in Riley Station). She had Church in her living room. Never did any of the children go to bed at night, without kneeling on their knees, in "old fashioned" family prayer, around "Big Mama's" bed. In later years, Boomie confessed Christ at an early age under the auspices of Elder McKinley Lockett (Church of God In Christ in Grasselli Heights). As a child, he attended Riley and Shields Elementary Schools. During the integration of schools, Boomie was among the first African American students to attend "Phillips High School", in the ninth grade. Even though his primary employment was at Davenport Harris Funeral Home under the superb supervision of Mr. Marion Sterling, many other directors summoned his professional services. He thought the world of Mr. Paul Gardner, and frequently articulated his integrity. He esteemed each one of his co-workers. Boomie knew "the one thing" that caused him to be "God's Great Light" in the funeral industry, in the community, and in every day life itself! He knew that it took more than just being gifted and talented. He identified and exhibited the need for unrequited Love, enduring Patience, and a Compassionate heart! These attributes were demonstrated and felt among his peers, routinely! It was impossible for anyone with a heart, Not To Love Boomie! His persona never changed! Even if he experienced "frustration", he did not know how to hold a grudge. He forgave freely and easily! He never forgot a face or a name. He was never a respecter of persons. He never met a "stranger"! And, No One Was Ever "Too Dirty"! As a humanitarian, He simply loved People! "Birmingham, how do we Really say "Good-Bye" to Our Boomie? Boomie leaves to "Celebrate his life", two (2) Loving stepchildren, Chicko Copeland and Tabitha Copeland; twelve (12) grandchildren; and two (2) great grandchildren. Also rejoicing is his stepfather, Bannister Young of Birmingham, Al; One great aunt: Elnora Whitfield of Markham Illinois; One aunt: Laura Caldwell (Charles) of Jamaica, New York; Three sisters and two brothers: Pastor Carmen Jean (kitty) McCain; Marcus Lakeith Young (Tishamdo); Fredrick Cornelius Young; Sarah Faith Young; and Cathereal Patrice Conwell (all of Birmingham, Al.); Ten nieces: Angel, Lashunna, Vontessa, Rakeshia, Jowanna, Markeithia, Jasmine, Jonae, Danielle, and Elizabeth; Twelve nephews: George, Chanliss, William Jr., Christopher, Anthony, Marcus Jr., Kenneth Jr., Aaron, Harold Jr., Kendall, Kendarius and JaMarcus; Two cousins raised as his sisters: Arnita (nita) Cade and Theresa Johnson (Melvin); One very special "paternal cousin", Sister Annie Ruth Johnson and a host of other cousins, relatives, friends, co-workers, neighbors and peers that will dearly Love and Miss him forever. Julian Bernard "Boomie" Chatman can be visited at Davenport & Harris Funeral Home all day Wednesday, Sept. 17th at 301 Martin Luther King, Jr. Drive, SW, Birmingham, AL 35211. Funeral Services are to be held at Hopewell Missionary Baptist Church - Hillman Station, Thurs., September 18, 2014 at 11:00 a.m., 4817 Jefferson Ave S.W., Birmingham, Alabama 35221. Interment will follow in Elmwood Cemetery. Davenport & Harris Directing.

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