A Chaplain's Mission on Tennessee's Death Row
In the summer of 1955, the stark reality of death row at the Tennessee State Penitentiary weighed heavily on inmates like Charlie Sullins and Harry Kirkendoll. Convicted for their roles in a fatal armed robbery in Lebanon, Tennessee, on March 3, 1953, both men faced execution by electrocution on August 1, 1955. Sullins, though not the one who fired the fatal shot that killed 63-year-old Ed Collier, was deemed equally culpable as an accessory by a jury, reflecting the harsh justice of the era.
Amidst this grim setting, a figure of solace emerged in the form of a prison chaplain, whose mission was to offer spiritual guidance to those facing their final moments. According to historical accounts, chaplains like Marshall Roberson, who served during this period, walked the so-called 'Green Mile' with inmates, providing comfort as they approached the electric chair known as 'Old Smokey.' Roberson's son later shared that his father sought to help these men find peace, even in their darkest hour.
The Case of Sullins and Kirkendoll: A Tragic Outcome
The legal journey for Charlie Sullins and Harry Kirkendoll was marked by desperation and inevitability. Kirkendoll had pulled the trigger during the gas station robbery, but under Tennessee law at the time, Sullins' involvement as an accomplice carried the same weight. As documented in court records from the Tennessee Supreme Court decision on May 6, 1955, their appeals were denied despite vigorous efforts by their legal counsel, who were praised for their dedication and masterful representation.
By the time their execution date arrived, both men had exhausted all avenues for reprieve. Strapped into 'Old Smokey,' they faced the end with the chaplain by their side, offering prayers and words of comfort. The presence of a spiritual guide during such moments was not just a formality but a profound act of humanity, aiming to ease the transition for those condemned by the state.
The Lasting Impact of Spiritual Support in Prisons
The role of chaplains like Marshall Roberson extends beyond individual cases like those of Sullins and Kirkendoll. Their work highlights a critical aspect of the criminal justice system—addressing the spiritual needs of inmates, especially those on death row. Roberson's commitment, as recalled by his son, was to reach out to society's outcasts, ensuring they did not face death alone or without hope.
Seventy years after the executions of 1955, the story of these chaplains continues to resonate. It serves as a reminder of the complex interplay between justice, punishment, and compassion within the American penal system. While the methods of execution and legal standards have evolved, the need for spiritual support remains a poignant element of life—and death—behind bars.