Twiggs Co. schools honor Shirley Stokes for serving 20 years on BOE

Twiggs County bid farewell to longtime Board of Education member Shirley Stokes during a Monday evening meeting, celebrating her two decades of service to the district. Representing District 4, Stokes was praised as a veteran advocate for public schools and the children of Twiggs County.

District 2 Board Member Teresa Blackshear recognized Stokes’ commitment to excellence.

“You know this job is never done, it’s never easy,” Blackshear said. “You will be missed from that seat, making decisions that’s best for our children. We thank you for your wisdom, for your laughter, and for being an advocate for our public schools.”

Throughout her tenure, her colleagues said Stokes was known for her thoughtful approach, asking tough questions to ensure every decision benefited students. Her consistent attendance at board meetings, trainings, and school events reflected her deep care for the district, they added.

“You’ve always had steadfast and committed attendance at all of our regular and called meetings, to all of the [Georgia School Boards Association] trainings that we had to drive to, in-town and out-of-town. You were always there.” Superintendent Mack H. Bullard said. 

Bullard also thanked her for the care she always showed him, his family, the students and the staff. 

Stokes’ impact was echoed by others who worked with her over the years. Former Superintendent Elgin Dixon, who preceded Bullard, sent video remarks. 

“Shirley was one of the best board members that I could have ever worked with,” Dixon said. “We had so much fun. Shirley, I want to say, take care of yourself, enjoy your retirement from Twiggs County Board of Education. You have served well.”

In honor of her service, Stokes was presented with a plaque, gifts, and tributes from colleagues past and present.

Stokes will be succeeded by Chesney “Chachi” Butler, who ran as an uncontested Republican for the District 4 seat. 

Butler is a member of the Twiggs County High School class of 2001 and has been a resident of the county for most of his life. He is the marketer for a private home care business, Angels of Mercy, and co-owner of Freedom Fireworks. He was also a youth pastor for 10 years and has helped coordinate youth food drives and Christmas toy drives.

“This journey is all about learning and growing, and I feel honored to be part of it,” he shared on his Facebook profile ahead of his board member orientation. “The kids in my community mean the world to me, and I’m deeply committed to serving them.”