BY ROGER SMITH
MOUNTAIN CITIZEN
INEZ — Christmas in the Mountains has revealed the Ms. and Mr. Christmas in the Mountains 2024. A panel of event organizers narrowed down nominations before selecting local legends Thelma Moore and Garmon David Preece as this year’s royalty.
The coronation will take place during the Merry Little Christmas Party on Sunday, Dec. 1, from 6 to 8 p.m. at the Collier Center in Inez.
Thelma Moore: A lifetime of community spirit
It is hard to find a corner of Martin County that has not felt the influence of Thelma Moore. Known for her tireless commitment to service, the Pigeon Roost resident has spent decades uplifting her community in every way imaginable.
“Most of the community knows Thelma,” said organizer Brenda Evans Davis. “She has been around and has been such a community person, a good, godly churchgoer. …She is so excited to get this honor. We’re just blessed that we can bestow this upon her. We’re excited.”
From organizing PRIDE cleanups to her years as a member of the Kiwanis Club (she is no stranger to shaking up lemonade at their famous stands), Moore’s efforts have left an indelible mark. She played a prominent role in founding Pioneer Day at Pigeon Roost Park and served on its committee for years. Her service extended to the Martin County Historical Society and Operation UNITE, a regional anti-drug initiative.
Moore’s 15 years as a work-based learning director at Sheldon Clark High School solidified her reputation as a mentor to local youth. For much of that time she served as the Project Graduation treasurer.
As a member of Sidney Church for nearly 40 years, she and her late husband Eugene cleaned the church together every month. They also ran the Pigeon Roost Community Center for two decades, ensuring it remained a hub for their neighbors to gather and celebrate.
Garmon David Preece: A sheriff with a shepherd’s heart
For Garmon David Preece of Inez, community service has been a life calling. As Martin County Sheriff from 2002 to 2014, Preece did not just enforce the law—he invested in the community’s future, sponsoring youth trips to the Sheriff’s Ranch summer camp.
“He’s an all-around good guy,” Davis said of Preece. “We couldn’t be happier to name him our Mr. Christmas.”
Preece’s contributions extended far beyond his tenure as sheriff. A steadfast volunteer at God’s Pantry, he spent years distributing food to seniors in need.
As a spiritual leader, Preece has pastored at several local churches, including Warfield First Baptist, where he serves as pastor.
Celebrate the crowning moment
The CITM committee invites everyone to join the celebration Dec. 1 with dinner, entertainment and, of course, the crowning of Moore and Preece.
Tickets are $15 for singles and $25 for couples, covering a full-course meal and an evening of festivities.
“You’re in for a treat,” Davis said.
Organizer Linda Webb urged, “Buy your tickets now so we know how much food to prepare. We have the best time.”
Tickets are available at Paula’s Hair Image in Inez or via PayPal at citmfunds@gmail.com.