Aulton B. Cryer Sr

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The Washington Parish Watermelon Festival   announced that Mr. Aulton B. Cryer Sr. has been selected as the 2025 Parade Marshal. A revered figure in Washington Parish and beyond, Mr. Cryer embodies the values of community service, entrepreneurship, and agricultural advocacy that lie at the heart of our festival’s mission.

Born on December 10, 1939, in Mount Hermon, Louisiana, Mr. Cryer’s life has been a testament to hard work, leadership, and service. He graduated from Vernon High School in 1959 and pursued his passion for barbering at Tyler Barber College in Little Rock, Arkansas, where he earned his Master Barber certification in 1960. His journey then led him west to Los Angeles, California, where he launched Cryer’s Sound Center in 1970. This thriving business, specializing in car alarms and stereo installations, marked the beginning of his entrepreneurial journey. He later expanded into music retail, selling records and tapes across the city.

In 1980, Mr. Cryer transitioned to a new chapter with Hughes Aircraft, where his dedication and leadership earned him a supervisory role. His professional path also included roles in Houston, Texas, with Glacier Water Company and Enterprise Car Rental before he ultimately returned to his roots in Mount Hermon in 2005.

Upon his return, Mr. Cryer embraced the agricultural legacy of his family, becoming an active supporter of local farming. He obtained a peddler’s license in Franklinton and partnered with local farmer Henry Harrison to help establish the Franklinton Farmers Market. He currently serves as Vice President of the market and represents the Mount Hermon Council on Aging on the Washington Parish Committee.

Mr. Cryer’s lifelong commitment to service and development is reflected in the achievements of his children. His son, Aulton Jr., oversees farmers markets throughout Louisiana and Mississippi, while his daughter, Tonya, has recently opened a roadside produce stand on the family farm along Thomas Cryer Road.

As this year’s Parade Marshal, Mr. Cryer will lead the 2025 Washington Parish Watermelon Festival Parade, which takes place on Saturday, July 12, 2025, at 9:00 A.M., beginning at the Industrial Park. We invite the entire community to join us in celebrating Mr. Cryer’s remarkable legacy and honoring his contributions to Washington Parish.

Congratulations to Mr. Aulton B. Cryer Sr., our 2025 Parade Marshal! Your leadership, generosity, and tireless dedication to community and agriculture make you a true symbol of the Washington Parish spirit. Let’s make this year’s parade a celebration to remember!