Community Service With a Smile: Butch Boyd’s Ymca Legacy
By: Grace Smith – Wise News Network
CHERRYVILLE, NC (WNN) – When a man as passionate as Edward “Butch” Boyd dedicates a part of his life to enhancing Cherryville’s YMCA, it’s only natural for the YMCA to dedicate a part of the Y to him.
On February 29, 2024, Boyd’s family, friends and community members gathered at the Y for a grand reopening. Since 2022, the Cherryville Y has actively worked to enhance the space. Several new editions debuted at the event.
Specifically, the Patrick O’Leary Program Center, the new pickleball and basketball courts and the refurbished childcare facility attracted many attendees. Each of these editions showcases the Y’s commitment to getting Cherryville residents more active.
Patrick O’Leary is the owner of the YMCA building. He bought it in 2022, embarking on a journey to revitalize the Y with an ambitious makeover. Previously, the Y resided at 119 E Main Street.
The new location is bigger, allowing for more equipment and space for activities. In 1950, Cherry Motors operated as the sole Chrysler Plymouth Dealership in Gaston County. A big part of the Y’s makeover involved restoring the building to reflect its history.
Research by O’Leary and business partner Vickie Spurling, delving into photo archives, ensured the accurate restoration of the YMCA building. Spurling said an old image of the Cherry Motors building guided their plans for the renovations.
They kept many of the defining historical features of the building, including the high ceilings, orange beam structures and more.
“We actually kept the roll-up door to remind us of that history [Cherry Motors], as you can see it is a replacement door. And then we have a historical plaque outside on the north wall,” said O’Leary.
Pictures from Cherryville’s past adorn the renovated facility, sourced from the Cherryville Historical Association and screenshots from a 1938 film by H. Lee Waters. James Lail of Cherryville Signs & Graphics expertly framed and arranged the collection.
“You can still see some of the features and faces from these pictures around town today,” said O’Leary.
The pictures on the walls reflect many parts of Cherryville’s history. From the American Legion days to Carlton Mill’s 25th anniversary, diverse Cherryville eras are displayed.
O’Leary embarked on improving the Y to give back to Cherryville. He highlighted the mission of the organization; healthy living for all ages.
“What I personally love about the YMCA is its commitment to inclusion, healthy living for all ages, from young to old, and a keen sense of community. The Y is the lifeblood of any community,” said O’Leary.
While O’Leary provided the funding for the renovations, the inspiration behind the enhancements are attributed to “Butch” Boyd. Boyd, a U.S. Army veteran, worked at the Y for 15 years.
He is the driving force behind “Happier Hour” a Y initiative that provides seniors with a welcoming space for food, fellowship and moments of joy in the Cherryville YMCA. He spent years dedicating his time to the organization and community he loved.
Spurling recounted Boyd approaching her, asking for financial assistance to avoid the closure of the Y. Boyd said he needed help to reach the YMCA’s fundraising goal. O’Leary and Spurling donated to the cause.
Boyd’s plea planted a seed in Spurling’s mind. When O’Leary bought the old Cherry Motors building, during brainstorming sessions, Spurling recalled Boyd’s earlier conversation.
“He’s really the one that brought it to my attention that if we don’t help we’re not going to keep Y here,” said Spurling.
In part, it is thanks to Boyd and his willingness to depend on his community that the Y is now thriving. Boyd passed away in September 2023. He is remembered for his commitment to community involvement and kindness.
During the grand reopening, Gaston County Family YMCA staff extended their gratitude to the honorable employee.
“Today, and every day, we remember one of the greatest, most dedicated employees of the Gaston County Family YMCA. And we said Gaston County because he served, I think, at every single branch in some form or fashion,” said Sharon Padgett, the CEO of the Gaston County Family YMCA.
Kathy Boyd, who is his wife, received a plaque that honors her late husband.
“Butch shared his time, his talent, his treasures and his truth with all who came into contact with him. He invested in the lives of our youth, our members, and most importantly, our seniors, his best friends,” said Padgett.
His family attended the ribbon-cutting, observing the dedication of renovations in his honor. The poignant moment allowed his loved ones to reflect on his impact, both in Cherryville and on them. Chandler Hudson, Boyd’s grandson, said he owes a lot to his grandfather.
“He is the reason why I am so involved in the community. He inspired me to be an EMS,” said Hudson.
Matthew Lail, Boyd’s grandson, wants the Cherryville community to remember Boyd for the happiness he exuded.
“They would remember him for his smile,” said Lail.
Cherryville residents can now enjoy the Patrick O’Leary Program Center and the Butch Boyd dedicated renovations. Josey Messer is the associate executive director of the Cherryville YMCA. He outlined all the improvements and how they will help the Cherryville community.
Messer explained that the renovations provided a significant amount of extra space. This will help popular programs for seniors by giving them more room for activities. Additionally, the Patrick O’Leary Program Center will change childcare programs in Cherryville greatly.
“Most of our [Cherryville] after-school camps and child programming have been at churches. So now we get to bring that home and are able to customize it and do more dedicated programming to the kids,” said Messer.
In addition to the new Program Center and pickleball and basketball courts, the YMCA has updated the workout facilities. New treadmills and stationary bikes line the big, custom-made, windows around the Y. Many of the machines are already in use by Cherryville residents.
The space bustled with life and laughter as people perused the area. Each Cherryville resident who utilizes the space honors Cherryville’s history and a commendable individual. Now community members can workout while fostering a sense of heritage.
Every part of the new facility recalls Cherryville joy; from the pictures on the walls to the plaque of Boyd’s happy expression. You might even see your face in the historic images, as O’Leary said. One thing is certain, every smile produced at the new and improved YMCA honors Boyd and his unforgettable smile.
For more WNN video news stories, visit YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@wisenewsnetwork.
For more WNN articles and news stories, visit: https://wisenewsnetwork.com
Contact WNN at [email protected]
Copyright 2024 Wise News Network. All rights reserved.