HONOREES (LEFT – RIGHT) Kenneth Anderson; former City of Huntsville’s Director of the Office of Diversity, Equity & Inclusion, formerly known as Multicultural Affairs William D. Smothers, publisher, Speakin’ Out News; Jerry Mitchell, Executive Director, North Alabama African-American Chamber of Commerce
HONOREES (LEFT – RIGHT) Pastor Rev. Dion Watkins, Progressive Union M.B. Church; Pastor Rev. Willie Hinton, Sr., West Mastin Lake M.B. Church; William Hampton, HC Blake Art and History Center and Facebook page and museum creator of ‘Huntsville Revisited; and Dr. George Grayson accepting an award for Jacob Savage in his absence.
HUNTSVILLE, Ala. — On April 5, 2025, the Madison County community came together to honor the life and legacy of a trailblazer whose impact spanned decades and touched countless lives. The inaugural Beulah Ballard Toney Day was a commemorative celebration honoring the remarkable contributions of the late Mrs. Beulah Ballard Toney—a civil rights pioneer, community leader, and tireless advocate for education and civic engagement.
Held in Huntsville, the celebration featured a stirring program that reflected Mrs. Toney’s unwavering commitment to justice, youth empowerment, and social progress. From being among the first Black registered voters in Madison County to becoming the first Black woman to serve as Chairperson of the Madison County Board of Registrars, Mrs. Toney’s work carved new paths and shattered barriers for future generations.
“The Legend, The Legacy”—a central theme of the event—was brought to life through powerful reflections by civic leaders, friends, and family. The program was masterfully led by Judge Everett Wess, President of the Alabama New South Coalition, and included warm greetings from Councilwoman Michelle Watkins and Madison County Commissioner Violet Edwards.
Among the highlights of the day was the keynote address delivered by Mr. Orlando Pitts, a Madison native and serial entrepreneur, whose life story of resilience and service echoed the values Mrs. Toney stood for. Pitts, known for his work in high-end real estate and his generous community giving, inspired attendees with his message of perseverance and purpose.
The event also celebrated men who embody excellence in leadership under the theme: “Honoring the Legacy of Leadership: Men Who Inspire Excellence.” This year’s honorees included Kenneth Anderson, William Hampton, Pastor Willie Hinton Sr., Jerry Mitchell, Jacob Savage, William D. Smothers, and Reverend Dion Watkins—all recognized for their contributions to uplifting the North Alabama community.
Another powerful moment came during the presentation of the Beulah Ballard Toney Scholarship, awarded to Miss Allison Villimil, a standout scholar from Buckhorn High School. With a GPA of 3.896 and plans to pursue a career in medicine, Villimil exemplifies the potential Mrs. Toney sought to nurture through education and mentorship. The scholarship fund, founded in 2016, continues to empower North Huntsville youth to pursue higher education and community leadership.
Musical selections by Izzy & The Jazz Addicts added a soulful touch to the brunch portion of the celebration, while tributes and reflections from the Fun Set Social and Charity Club underscored the lasting bonds Mrs. Toney formed through service and sisterhood.
As Madison County officially designates April 5th as Beulah Ballard Toney Day, the community not only remembers a remarkable woman but also commits to carrying forward her legacy of equity, excellence, and empowerment.
