Polk County says goodbye to Billy Croker

The Latest Local News from the Rome News

Family and friends gathered at First Baptist Church in Cedartown today to celebrate the life of one of Polk County’s greatest business and political leaders.

Billy Croker, remembered for both his thrift and charity, his compassion and zeal, was laid to rest at Northview Cemetery following morning services.

The 79-year-old county commissioner had just started out earlier in the year taking the helm of the board of commissioners as chairman.

Croker’s accomplishments – from helping to create the Northwest Georgia Regional Commission to providing countless people with charity in Polk County – were named by many who attended the service.

Longtime friend Ray Merritt reminded those in attendance that Croker’s life wasn’t all about politics or business. Merritt said Croker enjoyed conversation with everyone he came into contact with, and especially enjoyed sharing jokes with friends.

“Billy always liked to pick on me, and I liked to pick on him,” he said.

Merritt believes his friend was in a better place and looking down on everyone with a smile on his face.

“Heaven awaits, the gates are open, and they’re calling for you to come on in Billy,” he said.

Jean Crane, who considered Croker a major influence on her life, said she would always remember how much passion Croker had for sitting and talking with people, but that his favorite topic was politics.

“With Billy, it wasn’t about agreeing with him, he just liked to talk and debate,” Crane said. “I liked from time to time to take the opposite side just to hear what he’d have to say about something.”

Ronnie Wood, a local engineer, said Croker’s influence will remain with the community for years to come.

“It think when you step back and look at it all, Billy’s achievements in this county are unparalleled,” Wood said. “He’s a local political statesman, and a one of a kind.”

Polk County Commissioner Jennifer Hulsey said Croker was always an individual looking to do good, and was the definition of loyal.

“Billy was just Billy,” she said. “He love to laugh and joke around, but he was also quick to say what he thought, no matter the consequences.”

Hulsey closed her remarks with what she said is a fitting tribute to Croker, by asking those gathered: “What are you going to do for Polk County?”

Police cars and fire trucks accompanied the funeral procession to Northview Cemetery, where American Legion Post 86 Honor Guard performed full military rites.

Source: Rome News

The post Polk County says goodbye to Billy Croker appeared first on My Web Pal.

from My Web Pal http://ift.tt/17W1LGg

via http://ift.tt/16tBHl4