VALDOSTA— On Saturday, the Valdosta community celebrated a milestone in the life of a beloved and prominent figure, Ruth Council, as she turned 90 years old.
The parade, organized by Ruth’s daughter, Lynette, took place from 3 to 5 p.m. Starting at Ruth Council Drive, the procession made its way to her home. The event drew a significant crowd, all eager to honor the woman who has made substantial contributions to the community over the decades. During the parade, the organizers served the community more than 150 plates of food.
Ruth Council’s legacy in Valdosta is profound and multifaceted. As the first Black woman to serve as a city councilwoman, she broke barriers and paved the way for future generations of leaders. Her dedication to education is equally remarkable, having been named Teacher of the Year in the Valdosta City School system and later serving as a principal and overseer of the Valdosta curriculum.
Ruth’s daughter, Yvette Council-Waters, provided insights into Ruth’s past and mindset throughout her years of service to Valdosta and Lowndes.
Inspired by her mother to pursue a career in education and public service, Ruth moved to Atlanta for college to further her education and became interested in community service.
Ruth’s passion for community service is perhaps best exemplified by her role in co-founding the MLK program. Ruth always believed in celebrating Martin Luther King Jr.’s life and memory, Yvette said. The holiday was important in her household, where the family would listen to his speeches and read his stories. The MLK program began as a small gathering at Saint Paul A.M.E. Church and expanded into a positive force impacting the community for the past 40 years.
Ruth’s role as an educator was equally impactful. She was a very hands-on teacher, inviting children to study and expand their education at her home, her daughter said. Many parade attendees reminisced about being “Ruth’s favorite” because of how special she made them feel. Yvette said her mother’s motivation was to ensure that every child felt loved.
Ruth Council lived by mottos that reflected her dedication to others: “Yes, others, Lord, yes, others, Let this my motto be; Help me to live for others, That I may live like Thee” and “Give to the world the best that you have and the best will come back to you.”
Yvette believes her mother’s advice to anyone trying to follow in her footsteps would be that “Your mission is more important than problems, and to never give up” and, of course, “Always remember others.”