Long-Time Gaffney Mayor Henry Jolly Receives Honorary Doctoral Degree from Limestone University

Limestone University awarded an honorary Doctor of Public Service degree to Henry Levi Jolly, Sr., during a commencement ceremony on Saturday, Dec. 14, held inside Fullerton Auditorium.

An alumnus of Limestone’s Class of 1961, Jolly served as the mayor of Gaffney for 20 years, from 2000 to 2020, leading the city through five consecutive terms.

He was recognized at Limestone on Saturday for his unwavering commitment to community service, advocacy, and leadership that has left an indelible mark on his hometown and alma mater.

“Mayor Jolly’s dedication reflects a profound pride in Limestone and a passion for ensuring its continued excellence,” said Limestone University President Dr. Nathan Copeland. “This honorary degree is a testament to his vision, compassion, and tireless efforts.”

Prior to being elected as the mayor of Gaffney, Jolly served four terms in the South Carolina House of Representatives. He also served for 10 years as the South Carolina Real Estate Commissioner before retiring in 1994 to operate Jolly Place, a local bed and breakfast.

His tenure as mayor was marked by significant accomplishments, including the restoration of historic landmarks, the construction of new city facilities, and the establishment of several parks and public spaces.

Among his achievements, Jolly spearheaded the restoration of Gaffney’s historic Post Office building, now serving as the city’s Visitors Center and Art Museum. Under his leadership, Gaffney also constructed a new City Hall, restored the historic City Hall Park fountain, and added three fire stations, a fire training center, and multiple recreational parks. He initiated negotiations for the restoration of Gaffney’s T-Bridge, which reopened earlier this year, and helped secure the former Carnegie Library, now being transformed into an interactive Revolutionary War experience.

Mayor Jolly played a vital role in the City purchasing the former Broad River Baptist Association building in order to convert it into a much-needed conference center. He also began the City of Gaffney’s downtown Christmas Celebration that includes the official lighting of the City’s Christmas tree. Also, during his tenure as mayor, the City assisted in the restoration of the former cabin of Gaffney’s founder, Michael Gaffney, and had it transported to its current display location downtown.

In 2019, City Council unanimously voted to name Gaffney’s new park along Railroad Avenue “Jolly Park” in honor of the Mayor. During a dedication ceremony for the park in December of 2022, Jolly was presented with a proclamation to recognize him as City of Gaffney Mayor Emeritus.

Limestone University noted Jolly’s enduring support for his alma mater, which spans over seven decades. His dedication, philanthropy, and active involvement have advanced the University’s mission and helped create opportunities for students.

His son Dr. Henry L. Jolly, Jr., has served in the past on Limestone’s Board of Trustees, along with his daughter in law, Dr. Michelle Bedell Jolly.

With his wife Mary Mason, the Jollys are also the parents of two daughters, Mary Christian Jolly and the late Sarah Lisa Jolly Dodson. They have four grandchildren, Matt Hartzog, Elizabeth Hartzog, Mason Jolly, and Jack Jolly.

Jolly – who was a member of the inaugural pledge class of the Lambda Mu Sigma fraternity at Limestone in 1957 – now serves on the Appalachian Council of Government’s six-member Regional Board of Directors. A real estate broker by profession, Jolly’s career began humbly at age 11 as a grocery delivery boy before earning his degree from Limestone College and launching a lifetime of public service.

“Mayor Jolly has inspired us all through his vision and compassion,” Copeland noted. “His remarkable legacy serves as an example of the impact one person can have on a community and beyond.”