Crothers officially honored as “Queen of the Square”

Community, News

HIAWASSEE, Ga. – Joan Crothers, a long-time resident and community volunteer, was honored by Hiawassee Mayor Liz Ordiales this week with a dedication plaque that will grace the northeastern portion of Hiawassee Town Square, aptly named “Crothers’ Corner.” Crothers has served as a volunteer with the Towns County Garden Club for the past four decades, earning the affectionate title “Queen of the Square” — the result of countless hours annually spent landscaping the courthouse grounds and town square.

The 41-year resident was a charter member of the Towns County Chamber of Commerce, a founding member of the Towns County Fire Corps, a member of Hiawassee City Council, and a charter member of “PUP” which rescues and assists with the cost of spaying and neutering pets. Crothers began volunteering as a Girl Scout leader, lending time with the 4-H Club, and has served as an active volunteer with the Parent Teacher Student Organization (PTSO).

Crothers assisted in petitioning to establish the first recycling center in Towns County while volunteering with the Towns County League of Women Voters, Towns County American Association of Retired Persons (AARP), Towns County Hospital Board, Towns County Civic Association, Towns County Historical Society, Mothers Against Drunk Driving (MADD), Sheriff’s Auxiliary, and Coast Guard Auxiliary.

Crothers has been a resident of Towns County since 1977, relocating to the area as a single mother of a nine-year-old daughter.  The dedicated volunteer worked several odd jobs to support herself – cleaning cabins, substitute teaching, transporting passengers to the airport, cashiering at a local restaurant, as well as editing a local newspaper – yet found time to devote to the local community despite long hours of employment.

Crothers, who was accompanied by family members at the surprise dedication at Hiawassee City Hall, remains active in the majority of local organizations, devoting her time and skills to improving the lives of others.

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