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Waynesville’s revered town manager receives top N.C. honor

Longtime Waynesville Town Manager Lee Galloway was awarded The Order of the Long Leaf Pine, one of the most prestigious honors conveyed by the governor, in recognition of his years of service in the state.

The order may be awarded to those with 30 or more years of exemplary service to the state and to visiting dignitaries. Among the awards most notable recipients are Maya Angelou, Andy Griffith, Billy Graham, Michael Jordan and Dale Earnhardt.

“It only seemed appropriate that you been added to that list,” said Waynesville Mayor Gavin Brown.

Brown presented the award to Galloway during his final town board meeting June 26. 

“Thank you that is quite and honor,” Galloway said.

Galloway officially retired on June 29 after 18 years as Waynesville’s town manager. Galloway said he never imagined he would spend nearly two decades working and living in a place as great as Waynesville.

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“I couldn’t have painted a picture and it be any better,” he said with a lump in his throat and tears in his eyes.

The mayor also gave Galloway his official nameplate as a keepsake, and representatives from the local fire station, including Chief Joey Webb, gave the now retired town manager his own Carolina blue and white firemen’s hat.