News Summary
Rev. David C. Dority was honored with the Order of the Palmetto for his significant contributions to the Greenwood community. The ceremony featured family, friends, and local leaders celebrating his lifelong commitment to service, including his roles in the Lions Club and local church initiatives. Dority’s impactful outreach programs and numerous accolades highlight his dedication as a servant leader in the area.
Greenwood, South Carolina – The Rev. David C. Dority has been awarded the Order of the Palmetto, the highest civilian honor in South Carolina, recognizing his extensive service to the community. The presentation took place on June 22, 2025, at South Main Street Baptist Church, where family, friends, and supporters gathered to celebrate his accomplishments.
At the recognition ceremony, notable attendees included State Representative John McCravy, State Senator Billy Garrett, and former Representative Gene Pinson, who were instrumental in presenting the award to Dority. Following the formal recognition, a reception was held to further honor Dority’s contributions and influence in the community.
The Heart of Community Service
At 75 years old, Dority is often described as the epitome of a servant leader. His unwavering commitment to serving others has earned him accolades and respect from various organizations and individuals. His service has included longstanding involvement with the Lions Club International, where he has dedicated years to both local and international initiatives aimed at supporting those in need.
Within the church community, Dority has held significant roles, including serving as a deacon and teaching Bible studies at South Main Street Baptist Church. His dedication extends to volunteering for over a decade at the soup kitchen affiliated with Immanuel Lutheran Church, an effort that he has shared with his wife, Claudia. Fellow volunteers have praised him for his compassion and welcoming nature, frequently describing his interactions with those seeking assistance as deeply empathetic and supportive.
Impactful Outreach Programs
Dority’s outreach efforts are comprehensive. He has participated in several community initiatives through his church, including programs focused on adult literacy and the Helping Hands and Hearts ministry, which provides services to over 60 individuals weekly. His initiatives reflect a deep commitment to uplifting the community and ensuring that help is accessible to all, demonstrating the values of service he has championed throughout his life.
Acknowledgments and Honors
Beyond the recent accolade, Dority has received a number of distinctions throughout his service career. Notably, he was named Mathews Lions Club Lion of the Year in September 2020, showcasing his dedication within the Lions Club community. Furthermore, in January 2022, the couple was recognized in the statehouse for celebrating their 50th wedding anniversary, illustrating a commitment not only to individual service but also to a loving partnership dedicated to community betterment.
Background and Education
Dority’s journey in service is informed by his academic background, which includes degrees from Clemson University and Erskine Theological Seminary. Throughout his life, he has consistently emphasized the importance of serving others as a calling, a belief reinforced by the encouragement of his wife in his endeavors.
Upon receiving the Order of the Palmetto, Dority expressed gratitude for the recognition, acknowledging the vital role his friends and family have played in supporting his work. His acknowledgment of others highlights the collaborative nature of community service and the importance of a unified approach to addressing societal needs.
The community of Greenwood, along with those impacted by Dority’s unwavering efforts, have reason to celebrate a remarkable individual whose life work exemplifies the spirit of service that underpins this prestigious honor.
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Additional Resources
- Index Journal: Greenwood’s Dority Receives Order of the Palmetto
- Wikipedia: Order of the Palmetto
- Legacy: Brian Dority Obituary
- Google Search: Community Service Leadership
- Legacy: Pam Sheppard Obituary
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Community Service
Author: HERE Greenwood
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