ROCKINGHAM— The Richmond County Board of Education has lost one of its sitting members: Pat Campbell.
Before he was elected, Campbell was vocal in his opposition to the school board’s decision to change the school in Cordova from one serving special needs children to a middle school.
He ran for election to the School Board in 2018 and won a seat.
In 2020, Campbell opposed the switch to the Latin Honor System instead of using the valedictorian-salutatorian system. The RO subsequently published an editorial supporting Campbell’s view.
“We are so deeply saddened to learn about the passing of Richmond County Schools’ Board of Education member, Pat Campbell,” Superintendent Jeff Maples said in a statement Tuesday evening. “His love and commitment to our students and staff was evident as he worked tirelessly to support our schools.
“Richmond County has lost a leader, public servant, and compassionate resident who was determined to help improve the quality of life for all Richmond County residents. The Richmond County Schools community extends our thoughts and prayers to the family during this difficult time,” Maples concluded, adding “heartfelt condolences to Mr. Campbell’s family and friends.”
Campbell’s health prevented him from running for a second term in this election cycle.
Campbell’s passing was also recognized during Tuesday’s Rockingham City Council meeting by Councilman Gene Willard.
“The city lost a really good citizen today,” Willard said. “In his earlier part of his career, Pat did work for the city of Rockingham … Pat was a real nice, productive citizen. We hate to hear this, about his loss.”
Campbell retired from Griffin Toyota in 2018.
Arrangements have not yet been made.
