The amount of famous people from small towns in Mississippi is pretty impressive. As if there’s something magical in the soil, the state has produced some of the world’s most legendary musicians, writers, actors, activists, artists, politicians, and athletes. With so many famous faces hailing from the Magnolia State, it can be easy to overlook a few. That’s certainly the case with Robert Earl Jones, who many don’t realize is among the famous people from small towns in Mississippi.

Considered one of the most prominent film stars of his time, Robert Earl Jones was a successful actor whose career spanned decades.
Carl Van Vechten/Wikimedia
Throughout his lengthy career, Jones garnered dozens of credits. He is best known for his roles in Lying Lips (1939), Trading Places (1983), and Witness (1985). Acting wasn’t Jones’ only talent, though. He was also a professional boxer.
Robert Earl Jones, who is sometimes credited as Earl Jones, was born in Senatobia, a small town in the northern part of the state.
tatecountyms.com
Present-day Senatobia was settled in the 1800s – long before Jones’ birth in 1910.
loc.gov

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The small town is steeped in history, and it shows, especially in the downtown historic district.
tatecountyms.com
Added to the National Register of Historic Places in 1994, the downtown area features an array of historic buildings and tons of old-fashioned charm.
Of course, Senatobia has more than history going for it.
City of Senatobia MS-Government/Facebook
Residents of the town enjoy a superb quality of life with great schools, affordable homes, recreational opportunities, and a low cost of living.
Senatobia isn’t the only small town in the state Robert Earl Jones has ties to, though. His equally as famous son, James Earl Jones, was born in nearby Arkabutla.
Theo Wargo / Staff/Getty Images Entertainment via Getty Images
Though dilapidated, the younger Jones’ boyhood home still stands. It’s nestled at the end of James Earl Jones Road.
Just like his father, James Earl Jones has racked up an array of film, TV, and theater credits throughout his career.
Dimitrios Kambouris / Staff/Getty Images Entertainment via Getty Images
Because of his varied resume, he’s often touted as one of the nation’s "most distinguished and versatile actors."

 

Well, what do you think? Want to learn more about this charming small town? Check out the City of Senatobia website.

So, did you know Robert Earl Jones and James Earl Jones hailed from rural Mississippi towns? Do you know of any other fanius people from Mississippi? Ever visited Senatobia or Arkabutla? If so, what’d you think? Tell us.

Robert Earl Jones and James Earl Jones are definitely among the most famous people from small towns in Mississippi, but they’re not the only famous people from the Magnolia State. In fact, you might not even realize all the celebrities who have ties to Mississippi. And just to prove it, here are some famous Mississippians that you might not realize are from Mississippi.

Want to spend some time in Senatobia? Take a look at the vacation rental options from our friends at Vrbo!

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Senatobia, MS 38668, USA