Dr. John Talmadge Givens
Calvary Cemetery
Section 21, Lot 79, Space E CTR
(1889-1977)
Dr. Givens was born to Isaac and Willie Gilmartin Givens in Aiken, South Carolina. In 1912, he graduated from Meharry Medical School, and embarked on a 55 year medical career in Norfolk. He was a member of the Surgical Staff at Norfolk Community Hospital. In addition, he maintained and office on the 1100 block of Church Street, and later on 2400 block of Corprew Avenue. For 33 years, he served as executive secretary of the National Medical Association, the largest and oldest association representing African-American physicians.
Dr. Givens was also an active member of the Norfolk Community. For many years, he wrote a popular column for Norfolk’s African-American newspaper, the Journal and Guide, titled “How to Live to be 100-And enjoy it”. In 1949, this paper named him “Man of the Year” among Norfolk professionals. He was married to Alma Givens (1902-1958). They had a daughter, Alma W. Givens, and a son, Dr John D. Givens. He is interred with his wife. Other family members interred at Calvary include Willie (1880-1952), Dewey (1900-1933), John (1889-1977), Lillian (1889-1950), and Sarah Grammar (died 1946).
Dr. J. T. Givens Retires From Active Practice
New Journal and Guide (1921-2003); Jan 15, 1972;
ProQuest Historical Newspapers Norfolk Journal and Guide (1921-2003)
pg. 10
Final Rites Held For Dr. Givens
New Journal and Guide (1916-2003); Mar 5, 1977;
ProQuest Historical Newspapers Norfolk Journal and Guide (1921-2003)
pg. 2
HOW TO LIVE To Be 100--AND ENJOY IT
JOHN GIVENS
New Journal and Guide (1916-2003); Aug 8, 1970;
ProQuest Historical Newspapers Norfolk Journal and Guide (1921-2003)
pg. 6
Biographical information provided by Norfolk Bureau of Cemeteries.
Visitor Information
Visitor Hours: Sunrise to Sunset
Office hours: Monday to Friday 9:00 AM to 4:30 PM
Saturday 9:00 AM to 2:00 PM
Free parking inside cemetery.
Admission Cost: Free
Address: 1600 St. Julian Ave., Norfolk, VA 23504
Official web site for more information: www.norfolk.gov/cemeteries
Norfolk Society for Cemetery Conservation Web Site: