February 6, 2015 – Shirley Newby announced her retirement as Clerk of Court at Edgefield County Council’s Tuesday night meeting, Feb. 3. Her retirement is effective Friday, Feb. 6. In her statement to Council, Newby said it was “with sadness” she made her announcement but said her leaving will afford her time with her family. She went on to thank her staff, several of whom were present at the announcement, the citizens of the county, and her husband. Newby has served in the Clerk’s office for 20 years and has served the County as Clerk of Court for ten.

Governor Nikki Haley will now be charged with naming a replacement for Newby. However, before her departure, Newby did recommend to Governor Haley, Sonny Reel, who is currently employed as a deputy with the Edgefield County Sheriff’s Office, as her replacement. The Advertiser has contacted the Governor’s office to see if she will be following this recommendation, but we have received no confirmation at this time. However, a source outside of the Governor’s office did tell us that a decision on Newby’s replacement can be expected sometime next week. Should Governor Haley not name a replacement before Monday, Feb. 9, Probate Judge Bobby Peeler will take over as Clerk of Court until a replacement is named.

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Tiffani Ireland