By Jamal Thomas
August 24, 2020
Hayneville, AL– Today was a special day for Lowndes County. The Lowndes County Courthouse was renamed the John “Big John” Williams Courthouse after the late Sheriff. The Renaming/Dedication Ceremony took place at 10AM at the steps of the courthouse.
Williams served as Sheriff from 2010-2019 and has served Lowndes County since 1978. He lost his life in the line of duty on November 23, 2019.
Over 200 people to include family and friends of Williams, law enforcement officers, elected officials, and community leaders came out to witness the occasion.
City of Hayneville Mayor David Daniel expressed how Williams left a legacy of love. “He always demonstrated love. Love for his family and love for his community.”
Several presentations were made to the Williams family. The Honorable Louis Franklin, U.S. Attorney for the Middle District of Alabama, read a letter from the U.S. Attorney General’s Office and The Prattville Police Department gave a handcrafted wooden plaque. “This plague was handcrafted out of love by our Chief Mark Thompson” Assistant Chief Diane Thomas said.
In addition, Mrs. Arlean Allen and Mr. Arnold McRae presented the family with an oil painting of the slain sheriff.
Attendees were graced and inspired with musical selections by Mary Fleeton and Pastor Linda Dunn.
Other program participants included Lowndes County Commission Chairman Carnell McAlpine, Hayneville Baptist Church Pastor Rev. Andy Hepburn, and Rev. Christopher Blake of Betzell Springs AME Zion Church in Hope Hull.
In his closing remarks, Lowndes County Sheriff Christopher S. West expressed his gratitude and acknowledged the Williams family. “We will continue to honor our slain brother as we move along. We are stronger together.”
The Lowndes County Commission voted to rename the courthouse in December of last year.
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