ELIZABETHTOWN — It was an evening of celebration and farewell Monday when Bladen County turned out to honor four county commissioners who will be stepping down from their seats.
A crowd of family, friends, elected officials and numerous area dignitaries converged on the Cape Fear Farmer’s Market for a reception that focused on Delilah Blanks, Billy Ray Pait, Jimmie Smith and Wayne Edge.
Each were presented with a plague by Chairman Russell Priest.
“We’re here to give thanks to these four people who have served this county well,” Priest said. “It’s been an honor for me to serve with them.”
Edge has served as a county commissioner from 2012 through 2016. He told onlookers that he has “enjoyed serving Bladen County” over the past four years.
Smith has served on the county’s Board of Commissioners three separate times — from 1988 to 1992, 1996 to 2008 and 2010 to 2016 for a total of 22 years.
Pait served the county for 24 consecutive years, from 1992 through 2016, and said he “always wanted what was best for the people of Bladen County.”
Blanks is retiring from her position on the board after 28 years of service, spanning 1988 to 2016.
“I came on the board as its first female member … and I’ve been proud to be from Bladen County,” she said. “I’ve had reservations about stepping down, but age tells me it’s time.”
The celebration wasn’t over just yet — N.C. Rep. William Brisson was in attendance to present a pair of special honors.
“I have a lot of great respect for these two individuals,” he said. “I had the honor of serving with them some time back.”
Brisson then announced to the crowd that Blanks and Pait were being given the highest civilian honor from the Governor’s Office, The Order of the Long Leaf Pine.
“Wow, I’m a little overwhelmed … and that doesn’t happen often,” Blanks said. “I can only pray that I am worthy of this honor.”
“I’m at a real loss for words,” Pait said. “But I have enjoyed serving this county.”
County Attorney Leslie Johnson also had some kind words to say about all four of the commissioners who will be officially stepping down next month.
W. Curt Vincent can be reached by calling 910-862-4163.
