Tuesday night’s Board of Aldermen meeting began by commemorating the impact of those tasked with maintaining and improving the grounds of a historic local cemetery.

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Leaders from the Mt. Gur Cemetery Association presented commemorative plaques recognizing the legacy of service that has preserved the site for generations. Established in 1894, when Kernersville was still part of Stokes County, Mt. Gur Cemetery has long stood as a local landmark and the final resting place for families across the community.

One plaque commemorates the 11 men who contributed from their own pockets to formally establish the cemetery’s first association. The marker will be mounted at the site on Cemetery Street off of West Bodenhamer.

The ceremony culminated in a special honor for two modern-day stewards of a legacy dating back to the 19th century. H. Steven Mabe and the late Larry Cain were recognized for years of “selfless, steadfast and indispensable service” to the beautification, upkeep and long-term sustainability of Mt. Gur.

Association President Rick Pierce described the site as “a gift to our community,” noting the dramatic transformation it has undergone over the past 60 years. He credited Mabe and Cain with helping restore the cemetery both physically and financially.

Mayor Dawn Morgan formally recognized Mabe with a Lifetime Achievement Award and presented him with a Key to the Town, citing his “significant positive influence and impact for the benefit of future generations.”

In his remarks, Mabe reflected on the cemetery’s complicated history, including two separate dissolutions of its governing board during the 20th century after members died without successors.

When the current board was formed in 1998, Mabe said its primary goal was financial stability and perpetual care of the grounds. He declared that goal achieved, thanks in part to a partnership with the Town of Kernersville to help fill leadership gaps and ensure continuity.

Morgan then presented Cain’s family with a Key to the Town in his memory, honoring his legacy of civic service and his role in preserving Mt. Gur for future generations. Family members shared that Cain deeply valued his time working at what he affectionately described as a solemnly beautiful place that holds the remains of “friends, loved ones, heroes and scoundrels.”

A number of current and former board members were in attendance for the presentation.

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