David Daughtry gave a life of service

If you look all the way back from David Daughtry's 1971 graduation from Harlem High School to his November re-election to Grovetown City Council, his life between those years was given to service to our nation and our community.

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Daughtry served his nation in a time of war, joining the U.S. Army after high school for a four-year stint. He later followed in his father's footsteps with an appointment to the city council, and went on to become its longest-serving current member. And, God bless him, he drove a school bus.

Daughtry's death last week after a long battle with diabetes came at the young age of 54. But in his brief time he made an indelible impression on Columbia County and even more on his city.

Whether it was in seeking improvements such as new facilities for the city or in taking a tough stance in negotiations for funding, Daughtry could be counted on to stand up for Grovetown.

It takes a remarkable, versatile man to drive a busload of students in the morning, in the afternoon to sit at the negotiating table with government officials, and in the evening to preside as mayor pro tem over a city council session - and at all times to be a dedicated companion to his blind wife.

David Daughtry commanded respect without demanding it. He was a dear friend to Grovetown and to this community, and will be difficult to replace.