BOBBY JOE SEALES RETIREMENT

Bobby Joe Seales served as President of the Shelby County Historical Society, Inc. and as Director of the Shelby County Museum & Archives. Sunday, November 1, 2015 was declared by proclamation from Columbiana Mayor Stancil Handley to be "Bobby Joe Seales Day" in the City of Columbiana.

Seales was honored by the Society with a celebratory day of remembrance and reception for his 15 years of service when he retired from both positions. CLICK HERE for the 280 Living News by Sydney Cromwell about Bobby Joe Seales "Writing Shelby County's history" and his retirement on November 1, 2015.

Bobby Joe and Diane Seales donated a reproduction of a famous oil painting of Isaac Shelby by Matthew Harris Jouett at his retirement celebration. Isaac Shelby (1750-1826) was a beloved hero of the Revolutionary War, two-time (1st and 5th) Governor of Kentucky, a Major General in the War of 1812 and a founding father of American patriotism. Shelby was so admired by his countrymen that the County of Shelby in Alabama was named in his honor on February 7, 1818.

The Foyer of the Shelby County Museum & Archives was named "Seales Room" in honor of Bobby Joe and Diane Seales. Bobby Joe and Diane Seales were given "Honorary Membership" to the Shelby County Historical Society, Inc. Special proclamations and certificates of appreciation and recognition were given to Seales from many State, County and Local government and organizations. A "Key to the City of Alabaster" and a "Key to the City of Columbiana" were also presented to Seales. Bobby Joe Seales was often referred to as "Mr. Shelby County."

In his Farwell Address, Seales outlined his productive 15 years with the Society and Museum & Archives and thanked his many friends and supporters. "Always love, respect and protect your heritage and history," said Seales.

"History Never Written Is Soon Forgotten. Thank you and God bless each and every one of you."