Moments after William Stone was named Franklin County Citizen of the Year last Monday evening, he stood at the podium in the A.W. Todd Centre and reflected on his life in Russellville.
“I’m very fortunate to live my life here in Franklin County and in Russellville,” Stone said. “My family lived in four different homes around where we are now. This place means a lot to me. I’m blessed to have two grandchildren, and I hope to see them live and work in Franklin County one day. That would be wonderful.”
Stone was named Citizen of the Year at last Monday’s annual Farm-City Awards Banquet, sponsored by the Franklin County Extension System and the Farm-City Planning Committee. The annual event recognizes those with outstanding contributions in agricultural and civic arenas.
Stone and his wife Sandra, a Belgreen native, live in Russellville. He is retired from Russellville Electric Board.
Stone was responsible for implementing TVA conservation programs in Russellville. Stone’s tenure at Russellville Electric Board saw linemen receive essential supplies to restore power to Russellville citizens.
He served in the National Guard, was president of the Russellville Civitan Club, and was active in West Elementary PTA, Cub Scouts, Russellville Band Parents and youth baseball. He’s active in fund-raising for the American Cancer Society, Civitan International research and volunteers for Meals on Wheels.
Stone was nominated by his fellow Civitan Club members.
“The folks in Civitan mean the world to me and have taught me a lot about giving and working with other organizations for others,” Stone said. “My Civitan friends have taught me to be grateful for what we have and always try to give back something to the people who have been very good to me.”
Mark Tucker, Civitan president, said Stone represents the model Franklin County citizen.
“William Stone humbly gives his time and resources to make Russellville a great place to live, work and raise a family,” Tucker said. “He has lived an exemplary life of service to the community, and I am glad he has been recognized. He’s been a mentor to me through the Russellville Civitan organization, and I can honestly say that Civitan is successful today because of William Stone’s tireless service and leadership.
“He is very deserving of this award.”
