Estelle Witherspoon
Founding Member and Board President
Freedom Quilting Bee
Estelle Witherspoon helped transform economic reality for Black women artisans and their families in Wilcox County, Alabama. As founding member and Board President of the Freedom Quilting Bee (FQB), she oversaw its markets and sales for over 20 years until her retirement. Under her leadership, FQB was one of the 22 initial signatories and founding members of the Federation of Southern Cooperatives.
Congratulatory Listings

The Federation of Southern Cooperatives extends its heartfelt congratulations to the late Mrs. Estelle Witherspoon on her posthumous induction into the 2025 Cooperative Hall of Fame. A distinguished visionary and pioneering leader, Mrs. Witherspoon made profound contributions to community empowerment through the Freedom Quilting Bee, a founding cooperative member of the Federation of Southern Cooperatives. Her steadfast commitment to the Federation and her embodiment of the cooperative principles —marked by creativity, courage, and an enduring legacy — continue to inspire and uplift future generations.

TruStage proudly celebrates Estelle Witherspoon’s induction into the Cooperative Hall of Fame, honoring her visionary leadership and lifelong dedication to economic justice. Her work with the Freedom Quilting Bee empowered Black women artisans and uplifted entire communities. Her legacy reflects TruStage’s commitment to building a more inclusive financial system and ensuring brighter financial futures for all.
We thank the following for their contributions and support for the Cooperative Hall of Fame's Unsung Hero award.
Alice Paris
Ajowa Ifateyo
Carol Zippert
Cornelius Blanding
Eboni Thomas
Jessica Gordon-Nembhard Ph.D.
John Holdsclaw IV
John Zippert
Margaret Lund
Honoring and Planning Committee
Jessica Gordon-Nembhard, Ph.D.
Margaret Lund
Nominated by:
Jessica Gordon-Nembhard, Ph.D. and
Margaret Lund







