Booneville Park Renamed for Coach Willie T. Jackson

Booneville aldermen have voted unanimously to rename Sunflower Community Park as Coach Willie T. Jackson Community Park, honoring a longtime educator and coach who has spent decades working with young people in Booneville and Prentiss County.

The Booneville park renamed in his honor was approved at a recent Tuesday meeting of the Board of Aldermen, according to the Booneville Banner.

A 44-Year Career in Education and Coaching

Jackson came to Booneville in August 1954 to begin what the Banner described as an extraordinary 44-year career in education and coaching. His path through local schools included:

• Teaching and coaching at Prentiss County Colored High School, which was renamed Wick Anderson High School in 1957
• Coaching at Booneville High School, where he was named Teacher of the Year for five consecutive years
• Moving to Thrasher High School, where he was named Teacher of the Year for three consecutive years and started the school’s football program

He was also recently named to the inaugural class of the Booneville Hall of Fame. The article describes his service as extending beyond the classroom and athletic field, including service to his country.

Other Business Before the Board

The same meeting included routine city business. Aldermen approved seeking applications for a Public Works Utility Manager to oversee the city’s Gas and Water Department, approved a promotion within the fire department, and approved hiring two full-time firefighters. The board also accepted the lowest bid for a new control and data system for the city’s water system.

For more recent Booneville council news, see our report on Booneville aldermen approving promotions.

Residents with questions about the park or city meetings can contact Booneville City Hall.

Source: Booneville Banner / Daily Corinthian