Former school board
member passes away
Published Friday, April 19
By L.A. Story Houry
Staff writer

BIGGERSVILLE -- Former Alcorn County School Board member and longtime educator, Wilson Busby, 67, passed away at his residence Friday.

The school board had officially accepted Busby's letter of resignation just a few short weeks ago -- near the end of last month -- in which he cited serious health problems as his reason for leaving.

Busby was appointed to the third district seat on the school board on Feb. 9, 2004, to complete the term of the late Bettie Ketcham.

Later that year, he won a special election to serve the two remaining years of Ketcham's term. He was elected to his first full term on the board in the 2006 general election.

Busby's career in education has been a long and enduring one -- spanning 29 years. He was the Biggersville High School principal for 21 years until 1993.

At the time of Busby's recent resignation from the School Board, School Board President Jan Haley said: "His number one priority in every decision he made was the children. It was a joy to work with Wilson."

Busby's consistency in making students a priority was a sentiment Alcorn County School Superintendent Stacy Suggs echoed: "I consider Mr. Busby to be a champion of education. He cared about the kids and he always had their best interest at heart. He was a hard worker with good morals and I really enjoyed the time I spent working with him."

Board members now have to appoint someone to fill the vacant seat. According to the Mississippi code, the board must appoint someone residing in the district. A special election will be held for the seat in conjunction with the regular November general election. The winner of the special election will take office in January 2009.

Funeral services for Wilson Busby have been set for 2 p.m. Sunday at Magnolia Funeral Home Chapel in Corinth. Visitation will be held from 5 p.m. - 9 p.m. today and from 12:30 p.m. until service time Sunday.

Return home