
East-West Parkway Renamed to Honor Richard A. Shirley, Beloved Former Anderson County Clerk of Court
Unveiling the legacy behind Anderson's newest landmark and the man it celebrates
Anderson County officials have renamed East-West Parkway to honor a man who devoted his life to serving the people of Anderson County. The roadway will now be known as Richard A. Shirley Parkway, commemorating the beloved former Anderson County Clerk of Court.
The official naming ceremony and unveiling of the new roadway sign was held Saturday morning at the corner of Hobson Road and East-West Parkway, drawing community members, local officials, and friends of Shirley who gathered to celebrate his legacy.
A Lifetime of ServiceRichard Shirley's career in public service spanned more than four decades, touching nearly every level of local government in Anderson.
He began his public career in 1978 as a member of the Anderson City Council, where he served the community for two decades before becoming mayor of the city of Anderson from 1998 to 2006.
In 2010, Shirley was elected Anderson County Clerk of Court, a position he held with distinction until his passing on December 8, 2022. During his tenure, he was known for treating everyone with respect and dedicating his career to making the community a better place.
Community Remembers a Leader"From his years on City Council and as Mayor to his service as Clerk of Court, Richard Shirley served with honor, treated everyone with respect, and dedicated his career to making our community a better place," said Councilman Chris Sullivan, District 1. "Renaming the Parkway in his honor ensures that future generations will remember a man whose leadership and devotion helped shape Anderson County for the better."
The designation serves as a lasting tribute to a man whose leadership and service helped shape the Anderson County community for generations. The newly named Richard A. Shirley Parkway will stand as a daily reminder of his commitment to public service and the people of Anderson County.
About the Clerk of CourtThe Anderson County Clerk of Court plays a vital role in the local judicial system, managing court records, processing legal documents, and supporting the efficient operation of the county's courts. Shirley's 12-year tenure in this position was marked by professionalism and dedication to serving the public.
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Kind of weird calling it anything but East-West now but I get why they did it.
Always seemed like a good man. Hope the sign reminds people what service looks like.
He truly did so much for us here. Glad to see his name honored like this.