CityView Magazine - Fayetteville, NC
Issue link: http://www.epageflip.net/i/1405640
CityViewNC.com | 9 Methodist University and any cause that would make Fayetteville and Cumberland County a better place. 'She Wanted Better For Her Community' "I'm not sure the Democrat leadership knew that putting Mom in Dad's office aer he died would become a career," Claire ompson Tuttle says. "I think they thought she was a housewife without ambition and drive. But she truly cared about Fayetteville and Cumberland County and had high expectations for the community. She wanted a thriving downtown in 1978. She wanted arts and culture. She knew Fayetteville and Cumberland County deserved it, and it would make the quality of life better. She knew the importance of quality education, libraries, community gathering spots and outdoor recreation. She always wanted more and better for her community. "She was a public servant, which requires sacrifice. She gave up time with family. She gave up privacy. She had her heart broken when projects didn't succeed and cheered with victory with the many that did succeed. She didn't have career ambition. She had ambition for her community. "For me, she showed me how important it was to give a part of your life to making your community better…for everyone," Tuttle says. "It is a civic duty we all have…not an option. She was tough and smart and never apologized for that." Rebecca ompson Byrd says memories of her mother as a county commissioner seem like a lifetime ago. "I always remember growing up with local politics in the air," she says. "It felt like mom jumped right in. I'm sure to deal with the grief. I laughed with Claire and said Mom's service as a county commissioner meant many a night of TV dinners. I remember her getting her degree in political science and studying at night wanting to prove her place at the table. "Mom worked hard at the job. It wasn't just something to add to her resume. She wasn't looking for accolades, but she truly wanted to make her home of Fayetteville and Cumberland County a better place for everyone. I was always proud of her work on the board. We would travel with her from time to time to conventions. It was great to see her in her work environment. Her Specializing in custom window treatments, pillows, bedding & more.... MILL END THE STORE E s t . 1 9 3 6 Tues. - Sat. 10 a.m. - 4 p.m. 2706 Bragg Bvld., Fayetteville 910-483-2375 Save 20% off all in-store home decor fabric, trims, pillow inserts & the exclusive Upcycled for Hope collection of bags. for our not-to-be-missed semiannual sale. It's Time... Cool, crisp evenings call for a luxuriously appointed bed. From sumptuous, quill-free feather to elegant, synthetic down, your perfect pillow awaits. Pillow Talk Oh, No! Performance fabrics take the stress out of living a life full of joys & uh-ohs. September 1 - September 30, 2021 And do not forget to explore the area's largest, designer wallpaper resource library. Come explore...