Only a handful of men and women ever give up one year of their life to serve their community.

Even fewer give up 15 years.

His service to the City of Natchez alone is enough to make us thankful we knew former alderman George “Shake” Harden. But it’s not just his service that is worth remembering.

Those following city government from 1985-2000 remember just how Harden served.

A man of passion, Harden knew what he believed in and stuck to his guns. He tried to do the right thing for the people he represented, and he wasn’t afraid to voice an opinion or hear a different one.

Harden, 66, died Friday.

It’s easy to criticize elected officials — they almost ask for it when they sign up for the job as criticism comes with the territory — but it’s also important to thank the men and women who make the tough, and sometimes unpopular, decisions.

The part-time job of alderman requires full-time attention, we know. As an elected official, Harden gave up family time to answer questions in the grocery store, attend community events and answer his phone when a constituent called.

For his service, his determination and his love of Natchez, we all say thank you.

To his family, thank you for sharing him.