Tom Strange: Field is testament to councilman’s dedication

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PROGRESS 2023: What’s In A Name

In addition to Hal Kirby Jr. Park and the John Blackwell Sports Complex, one other Russellville ballfield that carries a “name” is the Tom Strange Field. It is located between Leisure Creations and the Ralph Bishop Community Center. Tom Strange served as a councilman in the 1980s.

“Mayor Bishop assigned him to be with the Parks and Rec Department, so he was my liaison between the mayor and the council,” explained Jackie Bradford, who was Parks and Rec director at the time.

“That field – we had already got some grants to build it, but he was the one who said ‘Hurry up. Get it done,’” Bradford added with a laugh. “He just wanted the field where they could start using it.”

Bradford said following Strange’s death, the city named the field for him.

“He was a city councilman and a well-known figure throughout the county,” Bradford said. “He was a good friend of mine. I hated to lose him. I think about him all the time – especially when I see his name on that field.”

Current Parks & Rec director Donnie Flanagan said having multiple ballfields is key to youth sports programming for Russellville. The city offers both baseball and softball, as well as T-ball, serving ages 3-12.