NEW SMYRNA BEACH, Fla. - The City of New Smyrna Beach announced Tuesday that they'd be enshrining a local street with an honorary name, celebrating a late educator and community member. Duss Street, located in the historic westside neighborhood, will be given the honorary name 'Jimmy Harrell Way' later this month.
Harrell was an educator within Volusia Schools for years, but his legend within the community far exceeded his career. Having volunteered alongside his wife teaching African American history, Harrell helped bring historical literacy to his community.
He was recognized several times by the city during Black History Month, and the Mary S. Harrell Black Heritage Museum was opened in honor of he and his wife's efforts. In 2020, then-New Smyrna Beach Mayor Russ Owen named Harrell Citizen of the Year. He passed away on April 3rd, 2022, at 91 years old.
It will be at the museum where the honorary dedication of Jimmy Harrell Way will be completed. The public is invited to attend the event, taking place on Thursday, April 27th at 10:00am. The Mary S. Harrell Black Heritage Museum is located at 314 N. Duss Street, and is free to the public from 10:00am to 1:00pm, Tuesday through Saturday every week.
