Clanton, Alabama Mayor Billy Joe Driver has died after a battle with COVID-19, according to the Clanton Fire Department.
On Thursday, July 9, the department announced the news in a social media post where they also acknowledged Mayor Driver as a “pillar member of the Fire Department,” which he was a part of before becoming mayor.
We are deeply saddened to announce the passing of our beloved Mayor. He was looking forward to his retirement later this year. At this year’s annual department dinner, Mayor Driver shared an emotional story about his time with the fire department until present and challenged the upcoming generations to continue the progress. His love for our city runs deep and he will be greatly missed by many! We ask that you continue to remember our Mayor in your thoughts and prayers.
The Jemison Police Department also released a statement on the passing of Mayor Driver.
The City of Clanton, Chilton County, and the State of Alabama has lost a true public servant today with the passing of Clanton Mayor Billy Joe Driver. Our hearts are heavy for the Driver family and we send our thoughts and prayers.
Governor Kay Ivey issued the following statement Thursday afternoon.
Today, the state of Alabama lost a valued public servant of many years, Mayor Billy Joe Driver. After his battle with COVID-19, Mayor Driver passed on to his eternal home. He will truly be missed in his home of Clanton, but also by many of us across the state. I offer my heartfelt prayers to his loved ones, friends and the city of Clanton in their tremendous time of loss.
Governor Ivey also authorized the city of Clanton to fly flags at half-staff on the day of interment. The governor’s flag directive will be sent at a later time
ABC 33/40’s Andrew Donley reports Mayor Pro-Tem Bobby Cook will take the place of Driver as mayor.
