Duss Street to become "Jimmy Harrell Way" on April 27.

Written by Kristen Schmutz

Belden Communications News

New Smyrna Beach’s Historic Westside neighborhood's Duss Street, home to the renowned Mary S. Harrell Black Heritage Museum and Lydia Pettis Park, will be granted the honorary title of "Jimmy Harrell Way" in recognition of the late Mr. Harrell's contributions to the community during a dedication ceremony on Thursday, April 27, at 10 a.m. in front of the museum at 314 N. Duss Street.

Two public meetings, held at the Alonzo "Babe" James Community Center in New Smyrna Beach focused on finding a way to pay tribute to Mr. Harrell, who passed away on April 3, 2022, at 91. The community members decided to rename Duss Street to "Jimmy Harrell Way," recognizing Mr. Harrell's contributions to the community.

Mr. Harrell was a former educator with Volusia County Schools and was awarded the Citizen of the Year award in 2020 by Mayor Russ Owen. He was a frequent guest at Black History Month proclamations coordinated through the City Clerk's Office. Alongside his wife, Mary S. Harrell, he volunteered to collect and share African American history and played an instrumental role in making the museum that bears her name a reality.

For more information on the Mary S. Harrell Black Heritage Museum, visit their website at www.blackheritage.org.