Our Roots

RAWTOP stands for Ro(d)gers, Adams, Watson, Taylor, Outten, and Perkins—six families connected by love, legacy, and togetherness. It all began in 1977 in Canton, Mississippi, when Erma Adams Davis visited her brother T.A. Adams. After a somber family funeral, T.A. suggested, “Let’s come together for joyful moments, not just sorrow.” That idea inspired T.A.'s children, Edwin and Angie, to send out surveys—and the RAWTOP Family Reunion was born.

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Our first reunion took place in 1979 at the Hilton Hotel in Jackson, MS, where we chose Black & Gold as our official colors and elected Hector Outten as our first National President.   They decided to reunite every odd-numbered year on the third weekend in July, leaving even years for local gatherings.  Later Hector appointed Eric Outten, to continue the presidency tradition which he led for many years. As our family grew, so did our leadership style. We transitioned from a single president to an executive committee, including:

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• Cecelia Mullens (Rogers) – President

• Stephanie Bennet Walker (Outten) – Vice President

• Cheryl Bennett (Outten) – Secretary

• Donald Perkins – Sergeant at Arms

 

Together, they are trying to ensure that every generation has a voice and a role in preserving our rich history.  Since 1979, we've celebrated across the U.S.—from Chicago, Los Angeles, Buffalo, Charlotte to Atlanta. Though we paused in 2021 due to COVID, we bounced back strong in 2022.  Each city holds treasured memories—laughter, music, games, and most importantly, family love that spans generations.