By NEAL WAGNER / City Editor

Dozens of friends, family members and city officials packed the Alabaster Senior Center on Sept. 21 to celebrate a city’s icon’s 80^th birthday.

Jimmy Gould, who carries the nickname “Mr. Alabaster” because of his extensive involvement with the city for decades, held an ice cream social at the Senior Center, complete with a red and white color scheme to match his allegiance to the Alabama Crimson Tide.

Gould was born in Mobile on Sept. 20, 1933, and later moved to Alabaster. He opened the PT Super Saver store in Alabaster in 1956 – only three years after the city was incorporated – and served on the Alabaster Water Board from 1959-1972, helping to lay the foundation for the city’s future growth.

In 1964, Gould was elected to the City Council and served until 1976, acting as the mayor pro temp from 1972-1976.

After serving on the City Council, Gould became the Alabaster city administrator until his retirement in 2005. Gould is still involved with the city, as he serves on the Alabaster Planning and Zoning Board and regularly attends each City Council meeting.

Over the years, Gould also has served as president of the Civitan Club, president of the Rotary Club, trustee of the First United Methodist Church, trustee of the former Thompson Elementary School. He also served with the Alabaster Suburban League and was the city’s first personnel director.

A road in Alabaster’s Propst Promenade shopping center is named in Gould’s honor.

“We are truly grateful for the many years of service and leadership Jimmy has given to our city,” said Ward 1 City Councilwoman Sophie Martin. “He has truly had a positive impact on Alabaster, and continues to make a wonderful difference in so many different capacities.”