The Leader of South Staffordshire Council, Councillor Brian Edwards, passed away on 13 August following a short illness at the age of 81.
Councillor Edwards became a councillor on South Staffordshire District Council in May 1983 and served as Chairman of the council between 1993 and 1994, before becoming Leader in 2005.
The authority said that he provided an outstanding service to the people and businesses of the area and was passionate about the district, residents and council.
His achievements were recognised throughout South Staffordshire and Staffordshire and his proudest moment came when he was awarded an MBE for his services to the community in 2015.
Councillor Edwards's leadership was recognised at a national level and he was awarded the Local Government Information Unit (LGIU) Councillor Achievement Award in 2013.
He subsequently accepted awards on behalf of South Staffordshire Council for the nationally acclaimed i54 South Staffordshire business enterprise park.
Last year, he received further national awards recognising the council's recent ongoing transformation programme.
As well as being Leader of South Staffordshire Council, Councillor Edwards was a member of Kinver Parish Council and was a councillor on Staffordshire County Council from 1989 to 2017.
He also supported many charitable organisations, including being an active member of the Rotary Club and the Royal British Legion, amongst others.
Commenting, Deputy Leader of South Staffordshire Council, Councillor Roger Lees said:
“Brian was incredibly proud of South Staffordshire Council and all that we achieved together over the years.
“He was an exemplary Leader and will be missed by all.
“Our thoughts and deepest sympathies are with his wife Barbara and all his family during this desperately sad time."
South Staffordshire Council Chief Executive, Dave Heywood added:
“Brian was an inspirational Leader.
He was fair, honest and generous with his time, always there to give advice, support and guidance.
“He was a true gentleman and we will all miss him dearly."
