Edward Shirley to lead Brownsville Christmas Parade

BROWNSVILLE TN (Monday, November 20, 2017): Each year the Brownsville Haywood County Rescue Squad recognizes a local resident as Grand Marshal of the community’s Christmas Parade. The individual is chosen for their unwavering support and contributions to the community. With this in mind, the Squad is proud to announce this year’s parade Grand Marshal is Edward “Bubba” Shirley. As Grand Marshal, Shirley’s duties include lighting of the Community Christmas Tree at 5 p.m., Saturday, December 2, on the courthouse lawn and then lead the parade at 6 p.m.

Shirley was born and raised in Haywood County , Tenn., and is father to eight children and a whole host of grandchildren. He has been married to Ruby for 25 years and is a lifelong member of Farmer’s Chapel Church where he sings in the choir. He enjoys singing, mowing lawns and model trains. He’s been known to share his love of trains with area children at Christmastime and at other community events over the years.

The 80 year old has spent more than 36 years in the grocery industry. Working first for Brownsville’s Big Star Grocery and remaining at the store when it became E. W. James and most recently when it changed to Food Giant.

He is most proud of his work serving seniors in the community. Shirley has been delivering Meals on Wheels for more than 20 years and drives 80 miles a day to make these deliveries. Most recently he was awarded Advisory Council Board Member of the Year by the Southwest Tennessee Development District Council on Aging and Disabilities. He has served on the Jackson TN based board for 20 years while advocating for seniors in Haywood County.

This year’s parade theme is “Storybook Christmas.” Parade entry forms can be obtained at City Hall, 111 North Washington. Deadline for parade entries is extended until Tuesday, Nov. 28. There is no charge to enter the parade.

Other Christmas activities planned for Dec. 2, include a Children’s Parade at 2 p.m. at the courthouse. Santa will lead the children who are invited to dress in festive clothing and bring your bikes, tricycles, scooters, wagons and more to ride or push in the parade. Santa will then remain on the square for pictures and visits until tree lighting time at 5:00.

Mrs. Claus will be here for Story Time at 3 p.m., at the courthouse. She will be reading classics and other well known books to the children. Dress warmly and bring lawn chairs as you gather to hear these holiday tales and live Christmas music presented by area choirs and groups on the courthouse lawn. The Community Christmas Tree lighting will be at 5 p.m., followed by more music and the parade start at 6.

Everyone is invited to this free event. For more information, contact Squad Captain Don Dinkins or any squad member.