Remembering Alabama's Political Giants: A Fond Farewell

As has been my tradition for over two decades, let's take a moment to honor some remarkable Alabama political figures we lost this past year. They left an undeniable mark on our state.

George McMillan: A True Gentleman

Former State Senator and Lt. Governor George McMillan of Birmingham passed away at 81. George was the kind of guy who lit up a room – a true people person. It seemed like everyone who met George instantly liked him. He blazed onto the political scene, winning a State Senate seat in '74 and becoming Lt. Governor in '78. Remember that nail-biter of a race against George Wallace for Governor in '82? Many thought McMillan would usher in a "New South" era for Alabama.

Mac Gipson: Tire King and Public Servant

Former State Representative and ABC Administrator Mac Gipson passed in July at 89. Mac represented Autauga and Elmore Counties for 16 years. Governor Robert Bentley tapped him to lead the Alabama Beverage Control Board, where he stayed until retirement in 2022 under Governors Bentley and Ivey. Before his public service, Mac founded Gipson’s Tire stores – a true entrepreneur. He was a good man and a reliable friend in the legislature.

Ralph Burke: Educator and Advocate

Another legislative friend, Ralph Burke, passed away in July way too soon at only 65. Ralph represented DeKalb County in the House from '83 to '98. An educator by trade, he was a proud Jacksonville State alum and lifelong supporter.

Bill Drinkard: A Versatile Leader

William “Bill” Drinkard passed away in July at 79. Bill served Etowah and St. Clair Counties in both the House and Senate from '78 to '90. He was a jack-of-all-trades, with experience as a store owner, hospital administrator, and real estate developer. A truly diligent legislator.

Julian McPhillips: Champion of Justice

Julian McPhillips, a renowned lawyer and Democratic leader for over four decades, passed in Montgomery at 78. Born into a family with deep Alabama roots, he graduated from Princeton and Columbia Law School before returning to Alabama to work for Attorney General Bill Baxley. A progressive voice in Montgomery, always fighting for justice.

Tom Walker: The Visionary Behind American Village

Tom Walker, Founder and President Emeritus of the American Village in Montevallo, passed away in September. Tom had a vision to preserve American History, and was a good man! The American Village stands as his remarkable legacy.

Bill Cabaniss: Republican Pioneer

Former Jefferson County State Senator Bill Cabaniss passed away at 86. A Republican long before it was trendy, Bill was a pioneer of the modern Republican Party in Alabama. President George H.W. Bush appointed him ambassador to the Czech Republic.

Dr. Annette Shelby: Educator and Partner

Dr. Annette Shelby, wife of retired Senator Richard Shelby, passed away in July at 86. A distinguished educator and tenured professor, she was also an integral part of Senator Shelby’s career.

Ann Bedsole: Trailblazing Legislator

Ann Bedsole passed on December 1 at 95 in Mobile. Bedsole was the first Republican woman elected to both the Alabama House and Senate. A true trailblazer and a woman of her word.

We lost some truly great Alabamians this year. They will be missed.