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Community members gathered at the Lake Lure Gazebo to remember a former mayor, the late Kevin J. Cooley. Cole Pritchett, a Boy Scout and grandson of Lake Lure Mayor Carol Pritchett, presented a newly built memorial bench honoring Cooley. The original bench was destroyed during Hurricane Helene.
The new bench--funded entirely through Cole's own fundraising efforts--now stands as a symbol not only of Mayor Cooley's impact on the town but also of the community's enduring spirit. Cole presented the bench to Mayor Cooley's widow, Yvonne Cooley.
"Kevin J. Cooley had a beautiful love affair with this town and the gorge," Yvonne said. "He was honored to be elected as mayor and he wore that proudly. He gave it all he had. He was humbled by the love that he received in this community and would be even more humbled by this dedication."
Mayor Cooley was remembered for his generosity, leadership, and unwavering devotion to Lake Lure, and left a lasting legacy that continues to shape the town.
"Kevin moved into the Hickory Nut Gorge community and brought a strong sense of 'giving back'. His life's experiences in unselfish leadership were soon evident to all. He embraced community needs and fulfilled them in a pleasant, cooperative spirit and without exception, produced exceptional results. He is greatly missed," said Tommy Hartzog, longtime friend of Cooley.
"I think it's important because you know he was a really great man, and he tragically passed away, and it really means a lot for the town of Lake Lure," Cole said.
The dedication ceremony brought together town leaders, residents, and friends of the Cooley family--many of whom see the new bench as a reminder of Lake Lure's strength and unity in the face of loss.
The new bench at the Lake Lure Gazebo is both a tribute and a testament--celebrating a beloved mayor's legacy and reflecting the resilience of a town that continues to rise together.
