Celebrating more than a quarter century of service to the residents of Lenoir, city officials, friends and relatives honored Dr. Marjorie Strawn during a retirement ceremony Sunday at the J.E. Broyhill Civic Center.

Strawn, who is stepping down from the city council next month after 28 years, was recognized for her calm, determined leadership and a genteel yet firm manner that often made her the conscience of the board.

"She is truly a class individual," Lenoir Mayor David Barlow said. "How many of those do you meet in your life?"

Barlow presented Strawn with a key to the city and later announced that North Carolina Gov. Bev Perdue has awarded her with the Order of the Long Leaf Pine, the state's highest civilian honor.

"We are just so proud of her," Barlow said. "She has been such a good role model for people."

A graduate of Penn State University and Pennsylvania Medical College, Strawn served as Caldwell County health director for 25 years.

Strawn was presented with several other honors and gifts during the ceremony, including a framed helmet shield from Lenoir Fire Department Chief Ken Briscoe, a plaque and resolution signed by the Lenoir City Council from Councilman Lewis Price, a plaque from the North Carolina League of Municipalities from Councilman and Mayor Pro Tem Joe Gibbons, a service angel from Lenoir Police Department Chief Joey Reynolds, along with a microscope and a framed card from Lenoir Public Utilities Director Mack "Buddy" Edmisten.

In her remarks, Strawn fought back tears as she reflected on her tenure.

"I'm not much for speaking out loud," she said. "I've been very fortunate to work with people who served the city and county. They are dedicated to serving the people they work for."

She later added, "I didn't expect all this."

Councilman Todd Perdue, who has served on the council for the past six years with Strawn, said he has appreciated her leadership.

"She's been the steady rock of the council," Perdue said. "She is an inspiration to me to see how she leads in a quiet manner. She is well respected by anyone who had the occasion to work with her."

Gibbons said he got to know Strawn through his father, Robert, the longtime former mayor of Lenoir. He said he admires her willingness to serve for such an extended period of time. "She's been a wonderful person for the community," Gibbons said. "I've enjoyed knowing her all these years. As the mayor (Barlow) summed up, she's been a wonderful class act."

Added Lenoir City Manager Lane Bailey, "She's just a very special lady. She will be missed. I'm sure she will find a way to continue to serve her community."

Strawn's final council meeting will be in December. Her seat on the seven-member board will be filled by Ron Stilwell, who was elected earlier this month.