By Mike Barnhardt

Enterprise Record

A member of the Mocksville Town Board, Johnny Frye is a former member of the Davie County Board of Commissioners.

For more than 30 years, he worked with emergency medical services in Davie County, helping it and the 911 system to grow. He has been the chair of a committee with the Northwest Piedmont Council of Governments.

And on top of all of that, he is a nice guy who is quick to help a neighbor – no matter what the need – said Mocksville Town Attorney Hank Van Hoy.

Filling in for N.C. Rep. Julia Howard, who was in a legislative session in Raleigh, Van Hoy opened last week’s town board meeting by calling Frye to the front.

Not knowing what was going to happen, Frye stepped forward.

Then Van Hoy presented him with the Order of the Long Leaf Pine from the governor. It is the highest honor a civilian can receive from the state. He was also presented with a flag flown over the state capitol in his honor.

“Thank you for dedicating 33 years to the citizens of Davie County. You are a tremendous role model to us all. We are honored you call Davie County your home,” Van Hoy said.

He’s the second member of the board to receive the award. Mayor Dr. Francis W. Slate is a past recipient.

Frye said that Julia Howard (and her late husband, Abe) were instrumental in his career and life.

“I’ve done a lot, but the most enjoyable was when I  was sworn in with the Town of Mocksville,” Frye said.

The mayor said: “I want to commend you for what you have done for the town and the county.”

“What you have done for this town is remarkable,” said fellow board member, Amy Vaughn-Jones. “I’m very proud of you.”