The 2024 August 8th Emancipation Parade Grand Marshal is Phillip West. Mr. West is a dedicated servant to this community. He is a 1969 graduate of Russellville High School. He worked tirelessly for 43 years at Berry Plastics and has since retired. He is currently serving in his 34t year on the Russellville School Board. During his tenure Mr. West has fought three battles with cancer and has beaten every one of them. Mr. West stated he does not take his position lightly nor for granted. Mr. West said he and the other members of the board understand that they have a job to do and they work together to make the best decisions for the whole school system.
Phillip West is married to Teretha West, They have three children—Phillip Jr., Nichole and Connie—along with six grandchildren and two great-grandchildren. He serves as a deacon at First Baptist Church, Fifth & Spring streets, Russellville.
The selection committee says, “Mr. West has selflessly kept this community in his heart. He is an encourager, a supporter, a father figure, a role model and the perfect friend. Everyone is invited to the August 8th Emancipation Day Parade Saturday, Aug. 3, at 10:30.”
The parade will begin at East Sixth and Spring street, following the 10 a.m. Flag Ceremony.