For Halifax County commissioners and administrators, Horace Johnson Sr. was a friend and mentor.

Today they honored him and his wife, Carolyn, who serves in his place, with a resolution.

It was an emotional moment for Mrs. Johnson, who could only muster the words, “I accept this with gratitude on behalf of myself and family.”

Johnson, a county commissioner from 1992 to 2004, died July 8.

“During his tenure as an elected official, Horace embodied a vision for the people of Halifax County and served faithfully until his health failed,” says the resolution read by board Chairman Gene Minton, “and yet his legacy still lives as his torch was passed on to his wife, Carolyn, who shared his vision and concern for equality, progression and the betterment of Halifax County and all its citizens.”

The resolution continued Mr. Johnson was respected, “and held in the highest esteem by everyone who knew him for his many contributions and untiring efforts that has indeed left an indelible mark on Halifax County and the nation, which he served well.”

Minton, reading the resolution, said, “Halifax County mourns his loss and extends to his wife, Carolyn, and family, its sincere sympathy and deepest appreciation for his leadership, his foresight in meeting the needs of the citizens of Halifax County, his unselfish and dedicated devotion to his family and to improving Halifax County’s unique quality of life.

“The Halifax County Board of Commissioners, on behalf of a grateful community, does hereby express great sorrow at the passing of Horace Johnson Sr., who personified a distinguished career in local government and whose life and memory we are proud to honor.”

Commissioner Rives Manning said, “Horace was a good friend. I worked with him for 35 years.”

Commissioner James Pierce said Johnson, “taught me a lot,” while Commissioner Rachel Hux called him a very nice man.

Commissioner Marcelle Smith said he didn’t have the opportunity to know Johnson long as a commissioner but knew him as friend a long time. He recalled going to a commissioners conference and Johnson telling him the sessions weren’t for cutting up but for learning and working.

Said Minton: “You never had to wonder what was on Horace’s mind because he told you.”

For County Manager Tony Brown, Mr. Johnson was an inspiration. When Brown came to the county in 1997, Mr. Johnson became an immediate supporter. “One thing I remember is he recognized the potential in me. He told me I was going to be county manager one day.”