Alabama lawmakers and Gov. Kay Ivey honored former U.S. Sen. Richard Shelby at the state Capitol today, saluting Alabama’s longest serving senator for his contributions to the economy, education, and future of his home state.

Shelby retired this year after 36 years in the Senate, where he built relationships and influence that enabled him to steer extraordinary amounts of federal dollars and projects to his home state.

Gov. Kay Ivey said Shelby’s contributions to Alabama rivaled and most likely eclipsed other legendary politicians, such as Sens. Lister Hill, John Sparkman, and Jim Allen. “His wisdom will benefit Alabama for many decades to come,” Ivey said.

Lt. Gov. Will Ainsworth noted that Shelby has been recognized as a politician and statesman but said a different description fits best. “He should be forever known as Alabama’s greatest builder,” Ainsworth said. “Because of Richard Shelby’s efforts in the board rooms, committee rooms, and chambers of the U.S. Capitol, Alabama has built roads and bridges, buildings and libraries, military bases and command headquarters. His work has built world-class research programs and state of the art labs at Alabama’s four-year colleges and universities.”

Ainsworth said he could list more projects but summarized by saying the most important thing Shelby built during more than a half-century in public office was a legacy. “A legacy to provide jobs, hope, and opportunity,” Ainsworth said. “To our children, our grandchildren, and their children after them for decades to come.”

Shelby announced his retirement two years ago and used his influence to help propel Katie Britt, his former chief of staff, to succeed him and become the first woman elected to the Senate from Alabama. Shelby, a native of west Birmingham and a graduate of Hueytown High School and the University of Alabama, served 51 years in office, including time in the Alabama Legislature and four terms in the U.S. House.

Sen. Jabo Waggoner, R-Vestavia Hills, who served with Shelby in the Alabama Legislature in the 1970s, told stories about his longtime friend and said he deserved the recognition that came today. “When the history book of Alabama politicians is written, my friend, you will be at the top,” Waggoner said.

Senate President Pro Tem Greg Reed, R-Jasper, told Shelby the example he set has inspired others to apply their talents to try to make Alabama a better place.

“Senator, I want to thank you for a hundred reasons,” Reed said. “But the most important thing I want to thank you for is the personal encouragement that you have given to me and so many others to follow in your footsteps to be a servant of the people.”

Shelby was the last to speak during the half-hour program and expressed his thanks for the appreciation. “It’s not about me,” Shelby said. “It’s about our state, our people, and the future of our state.”

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