On Wednesday, Gov. Kay Ivey requested that flags flown in Marshall County be lowered to half staff on Saturday to honor the memory of County Commissioner Ronny Shumate, who died late Monday night at the age of 69.
"A native of Arab, Alabama, Ronny Shumate has been described as a dedicated public servant with a heart of gold who loved his community. Without a doubt, his career and life epitomized service before self," Ivey said in a statement.
The Governor also highlighted Shumate's career in public service, first as an officer with the Huntsville Police Department and later with Huntsville City Schools as a D.A.R.E. officer and school resource officer.
"If his sacrifice wasn't already abundant, when his community called him to public office, Ronny Shumate again answered resolutely," Ivey said. "First, he took the mantle of Arab City Councilman, a position he held for 16 years, including eight years as Mayor Pro Tem."
Shumate was elected to the County Commission, District One, in 2018 and served for seven years, winning reelection in 2022.
Ivey continued, "And it cannot be forgotten the expert role Ronny Shumate performed for more than two decades as a well-known color analyst for the Arab High School Knights Football program heard over WAFN radio. Commissioner Ronny Shumate personified making a difference and serving others. He will be forever loved by his family, friends and community."
At the request of commission chairman John Young, Ivey authorized lowering flags on Saturday to coincide with Shumate's funeral services and interment.
Shumate's passing follows two other recent deaths on the county commission, including former chairman James Hutcheson, who died on May 3, and David Reed, who died June 19, a week after being sworn in.
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