Celebrating Billy Keyserling: A Beaufort Legacy Honored
Colleagues, family and members of the city of Beaufort staff and City Council pose with former Mayor Billy Keyserling after he received the Order of the Palmetto award during a June 10 City Council meeting. Issued by Gov. Henry McMaster, the state’s highest civilian honor was presented by state Sen. Shannon Erickson, right. Karl Puckett kapuckett@islandpacket.com
At Charter One Realty, we’re incredibly proud to work alongside people who don’t just sell homes—they help shape communities. That’s why we’re taking a moment to celebrate one of our own: Billy Keyserling, who was recently awarded the Order of the Palmetto, South Carolina’s highest civilian honor.
And if you know Billy, you know this honor is well-earned.
Beaufort’s Mayor, Mentor, and Lifelong Advocate
Billy has always seen Beaufort as more than a dot on the map—it’s been his life’s work. As mayor for three terms, a city council member, and former state legislator, he’s poured his heart into the Lowcountry. Roads, green spaces, public projects, preservation—you name it, Billy’s fingerprints are all over it.
But what really sets him apart? He leads with humility, humor, and heart.
At the award ceremony, he joked about needing hearing aids to keep up with council meetings, then paused to reflect on what truly mattered: “This city has been the love of my life.” Classic Billy—charmingly self-deprecating, deeply sincere, and always thinking about others.
A Community-First Mindset
Billy’s legacy goes far beyond policy. He’s shown up for generations of locals, from visiting second-grade classrooms to launching the Young Leaders of Beaufort program. He’s always believed that leadership doesn’t require a title—it requires action.
Whether it was starting the Sea Level Rise Task Force or mentoring students, Billy’s impact is grounded in one thing: connection.
Why It Matters to Us
At Charter One Realty, we believe great real estate is about more than buying or selling—it’s about investing in people, places, and purpose. Billy brings that spirit to everything he does. His love for Beaufort isn’t a tagline—it’s how he lives.
And when you work with Billy, you’re not just getting a seasoned expert. You’re gaining a guide who knows the stories behind every street, the history behind every home, and the vision for what Beaufort can become.
Here’s to You, Billy
We’re lucky to have Billy on our team, and Beaufort is lucky to call him its own. Congratulations on this well-deserved honor. And thank you for reminding all of us what real leadership—and real community—looks like.
Read article from Island Packet here.
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