Annie Lee Bumpus was a pillar in the Fort Greene community, known for her unwavering generosity, hospitality, and commitment to the development of her neighborhood and the people in it. Born in 1928, Annie Lee Bumpus was a long-term resident at Walt Whitman Houses in Fort Greene until her passing in 1998. She was highly respected and a familiar presence in Walt Whitman Houses, and everyone knew and trusted her. Her official role in her community was for the Tenant Patrol as a building captain. She helped keep the building safe and organized by signing people in and watching who came in and out. But her impact went far beyond these responsibilities.
Annie Lee Bumpus was known to always have her door open. People were welcome to stop by anytime: kids, neighbors, or people in need. She would always have large meals prepared and was able to feed others even while raising ten kids, and she did this guided by the belief that “you never know who might be hungry.” She was always willing to help people, whether it was teens from the neighborhood, struggling neighbors, or homeless people. She was never judgmental about whatever situation they were going through and treated everyone with dignity and respect. She was known for her kindness and patience, and people deeply respected her. She took the time to listen to others, offered advice when needed, and kept their trust.
