On Tuesday March 18th, during the City’s most recent council meeting, Laurel Mayor Johnny Magee and Ward 6 Councilwoman Grace Amos honored Ms. Lula Cooley for her many years of service to the community.
Both thanked her for her service and vision and congratulated her on her retirement.
Mayor Magee presented her with a proclamation to mark the occasion and to proclaim the day as “Mrs. Lula Cooley Day” in the City of Laurel.
The proclamation read as follows:
WHEREAS, the City of Laurel wishes to celebrate and honor Mrs. Lula Cooley upon her retirement from the City of Laurel, where she has, in various capacities, served the community with unwavering dedication and grace since 1985 when she was elected as the first black female city council member, serving two terms in Ward 6; and
WHEREAS, Mrs. Lula Cooley additionally has served the City of Laurel as the Community Development Director in 2005, Planning Development Clerk in 2009, Retirement City Program Clerk in 2010, and retiring as the Hometown Mississippi Living Director since 2011, overseeing the operations of the B.E Murph Center for Seniors in Daphne Park; and
WHEREAS, Mrs. Lula Cooley’s trailblazing spirit and exemplary leadership have paved the way for future generations, inspiring many to pursue public service, and
WHEREAS, Mrs. Lula Cooley has tirelessly worked in these capacities fostering growth and unity within our beloved city, initiating programs that have enriched our neighborhoods, and
WHEREAS, Mrs. Lula Cooley’s leadership as the Retirement City Program Director has brought profound joy, care, and opportunities for engagement to our senior citizens, ensuring their golden years are filled with dignity and joy, and
WHEREAS, Mrs. Lula Cooley’s role as the Hometown Mississippi Living Director has celebrated the rich heritage and vibrant culture of our state, bringing pride and recognition to our community, and
WHEREAS, Mrs. Lula Cooley’s commitment to the betterment of our city has been steadfast, and her visionary approach has left an indelible mark on the lives of countless individuals, and
WHEREAS, Mrs. Lula Cooley has been a beacon of hope, a champion for equality, and a relentless advocate for progress, consistently going above and beyond in her service to the community
NOW, THEREFORE, be it proclaimed that I, Johnny Magee, Mayor of the City of Laurel, Mississippi, along with Grace Amos, Ward Six Councilwoman, and we, the Laurel City Council, do hereby proclaim MARCH 18th, 2025, as MRS. LULA COOLEY DAY In the City of Laurel, and we, the citizens of Laurel, do hereby honor and commend Mrs. Lula Cooley for her remarkable service and contributions. Her legacy of excellence, compassion, and unwavering commitment to the betterment of our community will forever be cherished and remembered. May her retirement be as fulfilling and inspiring as her years of service. May she find continued joy, peace, and success in all her future endeavors.
WITNESS our signatures and the seal of the City of Laurel, Mississippi, this the 18th day of MARCH, A.D. 2024.
