06/09/2026
Ware Shoals Schools Hall of Fame Committee proudly announces the Class of 2026 inductees.
Richard “Babo” Boyter – A 1972 graduate of Ware Shoals High School, Mr. Boyter was a multi-sport athlete, Student Council member, and Senior Class President. For nearly 20 years, he volunteered as a coach in Ware Shoals Parks and Recreation football, basketball, and baseball programs, mentoring countless young people and ensuring children had the resources needed to participate and succeed.
His community service includes leadership roles as President of the Ware Shoals Band Booster Club, first President of the Ware Shoals Youth Athletic Association, and active member of the Ware Shoals Athletic Association. During a nearly 30-year career as a master plumber at Lander University, he also founded Piedmont Fire Extinguishers, providing employment opportunities for local graduates. His leadership, generosity, and commitment to service exemplify the spirit of Ware Shoals.
Eric Cox (Posthumous) – Mr. Cox dedicated his life to serving both his country and community. He retired as a First Sergeant after 25 years with the South Carolina Highway Patrol and as a Master Sergeant after 23 years in the South Carolina National Guard.
Throughout his career, he led numerous school and community safety initiatives, prevention programs, and training efforts, including collaborations with SLED. In recognition of his impact, he was named the 2019–2020 National Life Changer of the Year. His legacy of service, leadership, and commitment to protecting others continues to inspire the Ware Shoals community.
Tom Martin – Following his service as a commissioned officer and Judge Advocate General (JAG) attorney, Mr. Martin spent nearly 40 years practicing law in South Carolina, specializing in local government and economic development.
A devoted supporter of Ware Shoals Schools, he maintained an extensive alumni communication network and helped secure support for improvements at Lou Brissie Field. He also played a critical role in establishing the Ware Shoals Hall of Fame by drafting the legal documents necessary to create its 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization. His dedication has helped preserve and strengthen the legacy of his alma mater.
Bill Maxwell – A 1986 Ware Shoals High School graduate, Mr. Maxwell excelled academically and athletically, earning selection to the Shrine Bowl of the Carolinas. After attending East Carolina University and graduate school at the University of Kansas, he served as an assistant strength coach under legendary basketball coach Roy Williams.
Mr. Maxwell spent 27 years at the University of Iowa as Director of Athletic Performance, overseeing strength and conditioning programs for 23 sports and contributing to numerous conference and national championship teams. In 2009, he earned the prestigious Master Strength and Conditioning Coach designation. Mr. Maxwell has worked with elite athletes, including Olympic gold meadlists, NCAA National Playlers of the Year and countless others who have played at the professional levels. Despite his national success, he remained committed to Ware Shoals, helping secure strength and conditioning equipment for local student-athletes.
Jewell McCullough – A 1979 Ware Shoals High School graduate, Command Sergeant Major (Ret.) Jewell McCullough served more than 36 years in the South Carolina Army National Guard. In 2012, she became the first female and first African American Commandant of the Noncommissioned Officers Academy, 218th Regiment (Leadership). Later, as State G1 Sergeant Major, she oversaw personnel operations affecting more than 9,000 soldiers.
She was inducted into the South Carolina Army National Guard Hall of Fame in 2021 in recognition of her distinguished military career and exceptional leadership. Following retirement, she returned to Ware Shoals and continued serving her community as a member of the Ware Shoals School District Board of Trustees and as a basketball referee. Her commitment to leadership, service, and mentoring others reflects the very best of Ware Shoals.
