A lasting tribute now stands in Colbert County to honor Emmitt Edward Jimmar Jr, a man who spent his life fighting for fairness and opportunity. Jimmar, remembered as a bold leader and passionate educator, was the first Black person elected to the Colbert County Commission. This week, a plaque was unveiled to celebrate his legacy and contributions to the Shoals community.
Colbert County Unveils Plaque Honoring Emmitt Jimmar
Local leaders, family members, and community residents gathered to remember Jimmar’s incredible life. The plaque, placed in a public ceremony, stands as a symbol of progress in Colbert County.
Tori Bailey, a current county commissioner, helped unveil the memorial alongside La’Kiska Jimmar. The event drew praise from community members who recalled how Jimmar spent nearly three decades as a voice for fairness and justice in public service.
A Leader Who Opened Doors in Education and Politics
Before joining the county commission, Emmitt Jimmar made history as the first Black teacher at Coffee High School. At a time when schools in the area remained divided by race, his appointment marked a major shift.
He also played a key role in bringing Black and white educators together. Jimmar joined the white teachers’ association to help merge it with the Black teachers’ group, promoting equality within Alabama’s education system.
Friends Remember a Mentor, Advocate, and Friend
Dr. Roderick Sheppard, a close friend of Jimmar for over 25 years, shared how deeply Jimmar impacted his life. “He was passionate about education and about people being treated fairly, no matter what,” Sheppard said.
The longtime educator and commissioner was more than a public figure. To many, he was a mentor and a brother, offering wisdom and advice rooted in dignity and compassion. “He impressed upon me how to carry myself and how to be a man,” Sheppard recalled.
A Life of Firsts That Inspired a Community
Throughout his life, Jimmar achieved several historic milestones. Not only was he the first Black elected official on the Colbert County Commission, but he also championed initiatives that improved schools and strengthened communities.
His leadership helped shape the Alabama Association of Education, breaking down color lines and uniting teachers from different backgrounds. That spirit of unity and courage defined his work, leaving a lasting mark on the Shoals area.
Honoring a Shoals Legend’s Legacy
Emmitt Jimmar passed away at 82 after a battle with vascular Parkinson’s disease. Though he’s gone, his memory remains a guiding light for the county he served. The new plaque ensures future generations will remember the sacrifices he made and the doors he opened.
“I truly loved Emmitt Jimmar,” Sheppard said, reflecting on his friend’s passing. “His memory is something I’ll never forget.”
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