Ron Pankey was recently inducted into the Second Wind Hall of Fame, sponsored by the Tryon Fine Arts Center. 

Marianne Carruth, executive director of the center, made the presentation at the organization’s board meeting on Aug. 16.

The award read, in part, “In recognition of a useful and productive life, continuing beyond retirement while others paused to rest. These dedicated persons caught a ‘second wind’ and began a new career of service to the community and to mankind.”

Pankey has served as a part of center’s board since 2014. He has served on the board of Lanier Library, and has worked with the Always Tryon Group.

Pankey is a graduate of Emery University. Pankey then went into the U.S. Air Force, and spent four and a half years as an intelligence officer, before returning to the family’s jewelry business in Memphis, where he worked for 20 years. 

His hobbies include photography, gardening and computers.

When asked what he would like to be remembered for, he answered, “I guess it would be ‘community involvement.’”

Second Wind Hall of Fame is a 501 (c)(3) organization that seeks to identify outstanding volunteers over the age of 60 who contribute to the quality of life in the community.

– Submitted by Liz Norstrom