January 11, 2012
Carol Beddingfield
Executive Director
Chamber Chatter
This year marks the 60th year that Walter Weatherly has given his time and efforts to improving the community in which he lives.
Except for a short time frame of living in Scottsboro and Huntsville, Walter’s community service has been dedicated to Fort Payne.
After joining the Fort Payne Jaycees in 1952, he rose to the position of President in 1956. The state association awarded him the Jaycees Distinguished Service Award. In 1961, he served as an Alabama International Director. During his service as President of the 89 chapters of the Alabama Jaycees, Walter established many of the goals and objectives that are still followed today.
Recognizing his community involvement, Walter was named as one of the “Four Outstanding Young Men of Alabama.”
Walter’s professional career includes 21 years with State National Bank. He was named the “Outstanding Young Banker of Alabama” by the Alabama Bankers Association.
Two projects that are dear to Walter are the renovation of the Opera House and buildings and the DeKalb County Public Library.
Through his guidance and fund raising skills, the citizens of DeKalb County have the advantage of a first class library facility. Even today, Walter is fund raising to continue the Book Mobile program.
His 11 years of service as the Landmarks of DeKalb County House Manager for the Opera House has insured the preservation of this 1889 building. The Community Reception Hall and the Hosiery Museum will continue to play a part in the education of the history of Fort Payne.
The DeKalb County United Givers Fund was established in 1959 by an organizational committee with Walter serving as its first treasurer. Later that year, he became the president and fund drive chairman.
It is hard to say no to Walter during fund raising campaigns. The improvements to our city as well as the enhancements to the quality of life for our citizens can be seen in every project that he undertakes.
Walter continues to be involved in civic organizations today. He is a current member of the Fort Payne Kiwanis Club, director of the Mary C Weatherly Memorial Foundation, and member of Landmarks of DeKalb County.
Walter’s greatest commitment and service however is to his beautiful wife, LuAnn. The choices are easy when you love your life partner.
One of my heroes, V.I. Prewett, would be extremely proud that the Chamber is recognizing Walter Weatherly as this year’s recipient of an award that is given in his honor. Our community is better place because of the unselfishness of these two individuals.
Congratulations Walter Weatherly for being named the Fort Payne Chamber of Commerce V.I. Prewett Lifetime Achievement Award winner.
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