Fayette Chamber Honors Local Heroes at Inaugural BraveHeart Awards

Fayetteville, GA – On September 4, the Fayette Chamber of Commerce hosted its first BraveHeart Awards, celebrating public safety professionals and service leaders across Fayette County. Held at New Hope North Baptist Church- North Campus, the event united elected officials, business leaders, and residents to honor those who serve with courage, integrity, and heart.

The BraveHeart Awards is a new Chamber initiative designed to spotlight acts of heroism, leadership, and community impact. Thanks to generous sponsors Premier Sponsor Brent Scarbrough & Company, The Citizen, Country Fried Creative, and QTS the event recognized outstanding individuals from Fayette County, Fayetteville, Peachtree City, Tyrone, Brooks, and Woolsey.

Fayette Chamber President & CEO Leonardo McClarty opened the ceremony with a call to embed appreciation into everyday culture: “Let’s not wait for a crisis or a ceremony to say thank you.” Honorees included police officers, firefighters, city staff, and government leaders recognized for life-saving actions, decades of service, and initiatives that uplift the community. Remarks were shared by Deputy Chief Rhodes, City Manager Ray Gibson, and Pastor Al Meade, with awards presented by Chamber Board Chair Dr. Alvetta Thomas.

2025 BraveHeart Award Recipients

Fayette County • Corporal Donald Warney – For heroic actions in saving a drowning child and resolving a hostage situation. • Lieutenant Jeff Roach – For nearly four decades of service and life-saving response to cardiac arrest.

Fayetteville (Sponsored by QTS) • Carleetha Character, Assistant Director of Finance – For leadership in transparency and community engagement. • Chief Robert Mask – For visionary leadership and fostering a culture of trust and accountability.

Peachtree City (Sponsored by Country Fried Creative) • Kiara Fannin, HR Generalist – For excellence in employee support and HR innovation. • Detective Michelle Taylor – For investigative achievements and community outreach.

Tyrone (Sponsored by The Citizen) • Cody Kelley, Maintenance Tech – For leadership and initiative in public works. • Lieutenant Eric DeLoose – For life-saving actions and dedication to law enforcement training.

Brooks • Freddie Quick, Maintenance Chief – For creative problem-solving and beautification efforts.

Woolsey • Mayor Gary Laggis – For over 30 years of unpaid, hands-on service to the town.

About the Fayette Chamber of Commerce

The Fayette Chamber of Commerce is a catalyst for business and community growth, bringing together leaders from every sector to strengthen the economy, enhance quality of life, and support the people who make Fayette County thrive.To learn more about the BraveHeart Awards or upcoming Chamber initiatives that celebrate service and leadership, visit www.fayettechamber.org.