'A friend to all who knew him and an enemy to none'

Alleyway named after late judge Hunter Howard Sr.

Simpsonville, S.C. — In honor of the late former judge S. Hunter Howard Sr. (1925 - 2005), the City of Simpsonville has officially named the alleyway on South Main Street "Hunter's Alley."

The decision to name the alleyway after Mr. Howard was based on his contributions to the City of Simpsonville and Greenville County as a true servant leader. As the plaque notes, Mr. Howard was a judge, civic leader, entreprenuer and "a friend to all who knew him and an enemy to none." 

The alleyway was dedicated to Mr. Howard for "his dedication to justice, honesty and equality for all," according to the plaque, which also states that Mr. Howard was known for "his progressive and visionary leadership in the development of downtown Simpsonville."

At a business meeting in October, Simpsonville City Council voted 7-0 to name the alleyway after Mr. Howard. Mayor Paul Shewmaker said at the time that naming the alleyway after Mr. Howard, who was a summary court judge for 20 years, is a "fitting thing to do" to honor the Howard family.

"I especially like the idea of calling it 'Hunter's Alley' because not only does that honor their family, but it really provides even more of a sense of place," Mayor Shewmaker said. "It's something that you can say, and people will understand what you mean. As soon as we put a name on it, it will quickly be adopted as something people recognize who live here in town. I personally support this very much."

Hunter Howard Jr., Judge Howard's son, permitted the City to construct the alleyway last year on his property and install two murals on the ends of his property this year. Howard Jr. said at the time of the vote that the Howard family is "truly honored" by the City's decision to name the alley after his father.

"It is located in the middle of the property that he redeveloped in the 80s and surrounds the building that was his courthouse," Howard Jr. said. "Although he was a very humble person, I know that this would have meant a lot to him. Our family is touched and very appreciative of this tribute."

The City of Simpsonville is forever simply grateful to Mr. Howard Sr., Mr. Howard Jr. and the Howard family.