MADISON – An outstanding group of senior adults, including residents of Madison County, was honored recently with induction into the Alabama Senior Citizens Hall of Fame at a ceremony in Prattville.

Since 1983, the Alabama Senior Citizens Hall of Fame has honored and recognized Alabamians who are 60 years old or older for their outstanding contribution to the lives of older members in their local communities. The Hall of Fame also recognizes Alabama seniors who are 100 years old or older and couples who have been married 65 years or more.

“This is the one major event in Alabama each year where individuals are formally honored and recognized for their selfless advocacy and dedication to serving older adults in their community,” Jean Brown said. Brown is Commissioner of Alabama Department of Senior Services.

“We are proud to celebrate the achievements of the Alabamians selected for the Senior Citizens Hall of Fame awards,” Brown said.

“I am excited that our nominee Mrs. Dorothy Harris was recognized by the Alabama Department of Senior Services,” Levoneia Ayers said. Ayers works as Director of Madison Senior Center. At the Prattville ceremony, Harris received a lapel pin acknowledging her 100 years of life.

Howard Polin of Madison County also was recognized as a centenarian.

“Madison County was one of 21 counties that participated this year,” Ayers said. “This is our first year participating, to my knowledge, but will definitely not be our last.” Ayers said the awards event was well attended with standing room only.

The 2024 Senior Citizens Hall of Fame inductees include Michael C. Gillespie of Huntsville. Gillespie served a lengthy career as a commissioner with the Madison County Commission. In his career, he served in positions that allowed him to help the senior community in his area. As the chair of the Madison County Commission, he found funding for the county to provide increases for its retired employees.

The Alabama Department of Senior Services also acknowledges couples who have been married for 65 years or more. Madison County residents who reached this milestone are Jesse and Ella Johnson Jr., Thomas and Margaret Leavell, and Howard and Diana Polin.