2005 HALL OF FAME INDUCTEE

John P. "Top" Greene

Throughout Raleigh, especially Southeast Raleigh, John P. "Top" Greene’s name is synonymous with community service. For more than 30 years, Greene worked diligently with elected officials and community groups to shape Raleigh’s growth and make it a better city for all. He promoted the preservation and development of Raleigh’s South Park Neighborhood, one of the nation’s oldest historically black communities.

Born in 1920, Greene was a lifelong resident of South Park. A veteran of both World War II and the Korean War, he returned to Raleigh and immersed himself in community projects. He was an active member of the Central Citizens Advisory Council for 20 years, serving as its chairman from 1980 until 1996. Greene also served as chairman of the Eastside Neighborhood Task Force for 11 years. He organized his neighbors into a volunteer force that strived to maintain the dignity and preservation of the area they called home.

Known for his diligence and perseverance, Greene earned the highest respect from his community and the city, serving many city councils through special appointments to represent the citizen constituency. Championing the cause of a better community for all, Greene unselfishly convened community meetings, sought to understand the needs of the citizens, and, with fortitude, delivered the message through the appropriate channels.

Greene’s accomplishments include ordinances to improve and maintain the appearance of Raleigh, improvements to the infrastructure of the city through the development of roadways that connect and provide access to all communities, support of affordable and accessible housing for more residents, the placement of a police substation in Southeast Raleigh, the construction of a community center for the residents of South Park, and the expansion and renovation of Chavis Park.

Greene received accolades for his leadership and service from Governors James B. Hunt, Jr. and James G. Martin, and also was honored numerous times by the Raleigh City Council, community service and professional organizations, and his church, St. Paul A.M.E. Greene died in May 2004.

Recognized by community leaders as a "Good Citizen," John P. "Top" Greene was committed to responsible growth and advocacy for Southeast Raleigh. His calm yet decisive way of working with people achieved results that are enjoyed by the city to this day.
 

. . .

For more information, please write:

Raleigh Hall of Fame
PO Box 6128, Raleigh, NC 27628-6128

Or email information@raleighhalloffame.org or call (919) 787-9617.