Osborne Bell Justice Complex dedication and opening

Christy Owens, executive director of Holly Springs Main Street Chamber, greeted family members, elected officials and county employees Friday morning for the dedication and opening of the new Marshall County Osborne Bell Justice Court Complex, 819 West Street, Holly Springs.

The late Osborne Bell was the first African-American elected as sheriff of Marshall County in 1979. He was gunned down by Bart Mease, 22, on Highway 309 on May 7, 1986, during a traffic stop.

Family members traveled from several states to attend the dedication of the new justice complex in honor of their legendary father, brother, uncle, and grandfather, who is known in Marshall County for his commitment and love for the community.

Tim Powell, county administrator, welcomed everyone and asked Rev. Joe T. Lester to say a prayer before the ribbon cutting.

“It’s a blessing, honor and privilege to share this moment with family and friends,” District 1 supervisor and board president Charles Terry said. “But I come here with a heavy heart to start this process because we have lost another community servant, District 2 supervisor Eddie Dixon.” Terry asked for a moment of silence for Dixon.

“This board stood in solidarity. It was unanimously voted on by the board, (July 2, 2018), before the ground was broken,” Terry said. “This is a grand dedication to honor Osborne Bell.”

Sheriff Kenny Dickerson said he and Bell were longtime friends

“He was honest, loyal, and hardworking,” Dickerson said. “I had the assigned task to bring the killer to justice.”

Dickerson said he developed a close friendly relationship with the family. “Osborne was dedicated, fair, devoted to God and the citizens of Marshall County. He was always available when people needed him.”

Dickerson said he could tell many Bell’s stories.

“I’m just thankful for his friendship and family,” he said.

Dickerson thanked the board of supervisors for naming the building in Bell's honor.

“Because I don’t know anything we need more. Unfortunately we need them, (courtrooms) because of the crime today.”

Charles Terry read the resolution passed by the board of supervisors and gave the copy to Bell’s oldest daughter, Toni Bell.

“This building honors Daddy,” she said.

Another daughter, Gail Bell Fleming, said it was a wonderful surprise.

“I wish Daddy were here,” she said.

Bell served the citizens of Marshall county as coroner from 1967-1979 and served as sheriff seven years before his death.