The City of Statesboro hosted a street renaming ceremony on Saturday, January 13, to commemorate the renaming of Brown Street to Loretta’s Way.
The ceremony took place at 23 W. Grady Street Extension in the City of Statesboro. Statesboro Mayor Jonathan McCollar, District 2 City Councilmember Paulette Chavers, and friends and family of Loretta Johnson Williams offered remarks before the official unveiling of the new street sign.
"Loretta did what she didn’t have to do. How much better is this world because she chose to do what was right?" Mayor McCollar said.
Brown Street, on the city's west side, was renamed to Loretta's Way to honor the memory of Loretta Johnson Williams, who worked many years for Pineland Behavioral Health and the Bulloch County Sheriff's Department, in addition to serving in many other civic roles.
"My sister worked hard to get the drugs and drug dealers out of this community. This community has become a better community because of my sister," Loretta's sister, Donna Humphries, shared at the event.
For more information on the life of Loretta J. Williams, click HERE.
Quotes from family, friends, and public officials
Members of Williams's family as well as others who knew her spoke to the crowd.
"For my family, this street renaming means everything. And for me personally, it's something that I never thought would happen," son Jamie Prince said. "Growing up, I didn't see the effect and impact of my mom's community work until I got older. To see her name on the street sign is surreal to me."
Their sentiments made evident the impact she had on our community and gave attendees a glimpse into what she was like as a person and as a civic leader.
"Our mother was the kindest strongest human being there was. And without her we wouldn’t be who we are today. There is no way that we can ever measure the importance she held in our lives or in the lives of others," said daughter Celentria Prince.
Barbara Howard added, "Loretta just loved people. If she could do anything for anyone, she would. She was a selfless, Christian woman. If we could be a part of what Loretta was, the world would be a better place."
Family members also spoke to her strong personality and drive to make our community a better place.
"It was either gonna be Loretta’s way or no way; that’s why I named the street that name. I will never be able to fill her shoes, but I will do my best to continue her legacy," community activist and family member Tralayia Prince said.
Daughter Sherry Prince agreed, and promised to continue Loretta's legacy going forward.
"The naming of the street 'Loretta's Way' was so fitting because when we were growing up, it was her way or no way. She was a strong community presence and loved people immensely. This is our family legacy that we are proud to keep going," she said.
