Dr. Oliver Littlejohn

Dr. Oliver Marsilius Littlejohn entered the kingdom of heaven on April 8, 2015 at the age of 90. He was a loving, caring, compassionate man who was always concerned about the welfare of others. He is survived by Beverly Seastrunk Littlejohn, his wife of 66 years, son Dann Littlejohn, daughter Susan Percy, her husband Lee and their children Caroline and Grant. In addition he is survived by loving in-laws, nieces, nephews, and their children.

Born in Cowpens, South Carolina September 29, 1924, he came from a long line of military veterans. At the age of 18 he enlisted in the US Army where served valiantly during World War II in the European Theater. Despite enduring gunshot wounds and debilitating frostbite suffered he considered it his honor to serve his country. He fought in several battles, including the Battle of the Bulge. He rose to the rank of Staff Sargent in the rifle company of the 75th Infantry Division. He was the proud recipient of several medals including a Purple Heart and a Bronze Star.

In 2010 the French Government recognized his heroic efforts during WW II in leading an infantry charge to liberate the town of Wolfgantzen from German occupation. He was awarded the French National Order of the Legion of Honor which is an award originated by Napoleon and the highest military medal bestowed upon a non-French citizens.

After graduating from Spartanburg Methodist Junior College he attended the University of South Carolina where he received BS degrees in Chemistry and Pharmacy. He earned his MS and PhD degrees in pharmacy from the University of Florida.

Dr. Littlejohn was also the recipient of 3 honorary degrees:

He was a devout Christian and a Deacon in the Southern Baptist Church. Along with his wife Beverly he established a ministry to spread the Gospel and bring aid to the people of Jamaica.

Dr. Littlejohn was Dean of Mercer University Southern School of Pharmacy for 27 years and Vice President of Mercer University for 2 years. He is credited with saving the professional school from closing during the 1950s and '60s and bringing the school into national prominence. He was named Dean Emeritus and Emeritus Professor of Pharmacy, an honor that has been reserved for an elite few. One of his proudest accomplishments during his tenure was successfully leading the battle to integrate Mercer University's Southern School of Pharmacy.

He was an avid fan of the Atlanta Braves and loved his “real” Coca-Cola.

A private family burial was held at Arlington Memorial Park. A memorial service to celebrate his life and accomplishments will be held at 2:00 PM April 25th in chapel at Northside United Methodist Church.

In lieu of flowers, contributions may be made to Northside United Methodist Church, 2799 Northside Drive, NW, Atlanta, Georgia 30305.