Serving Barnwell County and it's neighbors since 1852
A local attorney was recognized for decades of service to two municipalities.
The City of Barnwell and Town of Williston united on June 23 for a celebration of Tom Boulware at the Barnwell County Museum. Also known as “Uncle Buddy”, Boulware has served as municipal attorney for the City of Barnwell for over 50 years and for the Town of Williston for over 40 years.
“I view my years of service to Barnwell and Williston as probably the highpoint in my legal career. It’s provided me an opportunity to serve the public,” said Boulware.
Family, friends and colleagues gathered to recognize Boulware. After remarks by dignitaries and Boulware himself, two identical portraits of Boulware were unveiled that were painted by Barnwell resident Kell Anderson. They will be displayed in each of the town halls.
No, Boulware is not retiring. Instead, the celebration was a way for the towns to thank Boulware for his “dedicated service, devotion and commitment,” as stated on a plaque presented to him.
“We celebrate you. We thank you for what you’ve done for the City of Barnwell, the Town of Williston, the people of this county and all communities of this county. It’s a better place because of you,” said magistrate judge and former Williston mayor Jason Stapleton.
Though Boulware was a great friend of Stapleton’s grandparents, Stapleton didn’t know Boulware when he was growing up. However, Stapleton got to know Boulware well when he became mayor.
“I came to realize the knowledge and wisdom he has for law, particularly for us with municipal law; guiding us through ordinances and resolutions, keeping us out of trouble,” said Stapleton.
The two spoke multiple times a week when Stapleton was mayor. Boulware became a mentor and role model for Stapleton.
“He is a true southern gentleman – polite and well dressed. He holds fast to tradition. He is a trusted colleague and an even better friend. He’s a strong family man. He puts the interests of others ahead of his own. He has a servant’s heart,” said Stapleton.
“Jason, that’s not my obituary, is it?” joked Boulware in response to the kind words.
Barnwell Mayor Ron Still echoed many of Stapleton’s sentiments.
“He’s a sharp-witted person. You’ve got to be on your game to get something by him. I thought this could be a surprise, but Lynn and Jason said that would never happen,” said Still of how they couldn’t keep the event a surprise.
Mayor Still has known Boulware for many years because his wife Melissa worked for Boulware’s law firm for 12 years. He’s gotten to know Boulware better after first being elected to Barnwell City Council and then as mayor. The two see each other or talk almost every day about city business or just people Boulware loves – many of whom were in attendance.
“You are such an inspiration to me, giving me guidance and information. Thank you for your love and dedication to our city. I wish you many more years of service to our great city,” said Still.
Williston Mayor Brett Williams said he is “forever grateful” to Boulware for his guidance and leadership, especially when they had to fill in as town administrator for a time.
Former Barnwell Mayor Edward Lemon was unable to attend, but sent a letter that was read by city administrator Lynn McEwen. “I’m truly sorry I cannot be there today, however, knowing Tommy Boulware, I’ll bet he wishes he wasn’t there either. Never seeking limelight, he’d rather be in the background working for the betterment of Barnwell,” said Lemon, citing water treatment facilities, parks, ballfields, and buildings that Boulware helped provide the city with his legal counsel.
Reflecting on his years of service to the towns, Boulware said he’s enjoyed most of his time as a municipal lawyer. However, one of the worst jobs was having to help Williston get 60 easements quickly certified for a loan through the Federal Housing Administration to build a new sewer plant.
Boulware thanked the mayors, council members, administrators, and others he’s worked with over the years. This includes former Barnwell Mayor Rodman Lemon and former Williston Mayor Bebo Flynn who asked him to help guide their towns legally.
He also thanks his staff at the law firm, including Melissa Still, Roz Dyches, and Emily Salley. “I could not have done it without them. They are the wind beneath my wings,” said Boulware, who also acknowledged his family for their love and support.
Boulware looks forward to continuing to serve Barnwell and Williston with the same dedicated service, devotion and commitment he’s provided for over five decades.
