From the program honoring H. B. Rhame Jr.

Service Above Self is the motto that has driven Bee Rhame’s lifelong commitment to education and community.

The Columbia native graduated from USC in 1950 and began teaching at Hand Jr. High School. He left his profession for a short time to serve his country in the US Air Force. He returned from his military service and re–entered the teaching profession for an additional year at Eau Claire High School. He quickly moved into school administration, serving as assistant principal at Heyward Gibbes Jr. High School and Withers Elementary School.

He was named principal of St. Andrews Elementary School in 1959 and served in that leadership role until his retirement in 1983. During his 24–year tenure he had the opportunity to move into other leadership roles but chose to remain at St. Andrews Elementary School. His influence was felt throughout the entire community. Upon his retirement the name of the school was changed from St. Andrews Elementary to H.B. Rhame Elementary.

While building his career in public education, Rhame earned an M.Ed. degree. He was an athlete and believed the life of a community is enriched by offering a wide array of athletic programs, especially for its youth. He made his philosophy a reality by organizing and serving as vice president of the St. Andrews Little League Baseball program; organizing and serving as president of St. Andrews Girls’ Softball program; and organizing and serving as president of St. Andrews Church Girls’ Baseball League. He also organized a group that purchased a bus for the community.

Rhame’s leadership and dedication to the school and whole community has been recognized and appreciated. In 1971, the St. Andrews community hosted a birthday party for their leader and presented him with a new station wagon. He was honored with the St. Andrews Ruritan Award for Community Service; Sertoma Service to Mankind Award; Lion’s Club Award for Community Service; Dutch Fork Optimist Club Award for Community Service; SC Cares for Children Award; and the Jefferson Award for Community Service.

Bee Rhame has been a servant leader at Westminster Presbyterian Church where he has served as Sunday School teacher for 35 years. He has offered leadership as youth director and ruling elder of the church. He received the Celtic Cross Award from the National Association of Presbyterian Scouts in 2004.

He and his wife, Libby, have three grown children.