BEAUFORT, N.C. (WITN) – The Town of Beaufort is mourning the death of Richard Stanley, who served as mayor from 2007 to 2017.

The town said Stanley promoted significant developments over his tenure like the annexation of Front Street Village, the expansion of town limits with Beaufort East properties, a new sewer treatment plant, and the construction of the bridge that connects Beaufort and Morehead City, among many other accomplishments.

“We are deeply saddened by the passing of former Mayor Richard Lynn Stanley, who dedicated 10 years to leading Beaufort with an unwavering commitment to our community,” said Mayor Sharon Harker. “His leadership was marked by grace and dignity, skillfully guiding our town through both challenges and successes. Mayor Stanley’s love for Beaufort was evident in every decision he made, always putting our town first. While he will be dearly missed, his profound impact on our community will never be forgotten.”

After his tenure was completed in 2017, Governor Roy Cooper awarded Stanley the Order of the Long Pine Leaf, which is presented to individuals who have a proven record of excellent service to the state.

According to the town, before Stanley was mayor, he served as the assistant district attorney in Wilmington, established his law practice, and worked as the town attorney for Emerald Isle, and other municipalities and counties in North Carolina.

The town provided the link to Stanley’s full obituary.