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On Tuesday, June 23, 2026, the City of Magee held a reception in honor of Jimmy Zila, who steps down from managing the Parks and Recreation Department at the end of this month.
Zila was joined by members of his family and by friends and other members of the community.
Mayor Mark Grubbs presented Zila with a plaque commemorating the occasion.
Former Mayor Jimmy Clyde took a moment to share some of his memories of working with Zila over the years and to express his gratitude and appreciation for Zila and his family.
Belinda Berry, who now serves as the minister of education and member care at First Baptist Church of Magee, reminisced about Zila’s help with the church’s annual community Easter egg hunt at the Jimmy Clyde Sportsplex.
Allie Knotts and her daughter Cit shared a message for Zila as well.
Zila’s grandchildren had a special message for him, too.
Diane McPhail said she met Zila when he played football at Mississippi College with her son-in-law Wally Henry. She shared memories of getting to know him through the years as well.
Coach Terrell Luckey shared his appreciation for Zila and best wishes for the future.
