Community Service Merit Awards

2025 Community Service Merit Award Winner

Judy Mobley

Judy Mobley is a dedicated advocate and community leader with a passion for service that spans over decades. As the Director and Department of Justice representative for the Carolina Immigrant Alliance, she volunteers 20-25 hours per week providing legal aid to immigrants. Throughout her career as an educator, principal, and Director of Secondary Education, Judy has consistently empowered others and worked to build a stronger and more inclusive community. Judy also serves as Board Chair for Hospice & Community Care, guiding its mission and advocating the organization’s vital service, and is an active member of Oakland Baptist Church, where she holds roles as a deacon, choir member, and Sunday School teacher. Her work embodies the values of faith, equity, and resilience, touching countless lives in Rock Hill and beyond.

2025 Community Service Merit Award Winner

Kathy Covington

Kathy has been a cornerstone of Area 11 Special Olympics since 1984. She began initially as a staff member and later became a dedicated volunteer director after her retirement in 2012. She also supports many local therapeutic programs and the Miracle League of Rock Hill. Kathy’s positive energy and commitment ensure that over 1,800 athletes in York, Chester, and Lancaster Counties are registered and feel valued in their events. Beyond organizing and volunteering, Kathy trains athletes to become coaches, continuing to inspire and lead even after their playing days are over. Her impact on the community and its athletes is truly remarkable.

2025 Community Service Merit Award Winner

Rev. Dr. Ronal L. King

Rev. Dr. King has dedicated his life to serving the most vulnerable members of the Rock Hill community. A former military policeman, New York City officer, and York County deputy coroner, he turned his focus to ministry, founding “Christians to Feed the Hungry” to provide food and support to thousands. Through his tireless work, he has served as a bridge between impoverished neighborhoods and law enforcement, advocating for second chances and offering hope to the homeless. Dr. King’s positive impact on our community over the past half-century cannot be measured and yet he continues his selfless work, embodying his belief in treating everyone with compassion, regardless of background.

2025 Community Service Merit Award Winner

Toy Rhea

Toy Rhea has dedicated nearly 30 years to shaping the future of Rock Hill through his service on numerous boards and committees. As a longtime resident, he has contributed to key organizations such as the YMCA, United Way, American Red Cross, Rock Hill Parks Commission, Piedmont Medical Center, and the Rock Hill Economic Development Corporation, among countless others. After retiring from Bank of America in 2000, Toy’s leadership and vision helped create lasting impacts, particularly in community and economic development as well as parks. His business, Gala Affairs, also generously donated both his time and resources in supporting local festivals and events, enhancing the cultural vibrancy of the city. Toy Rhea’s legacy is a testament to civic engagement and service, shaping the trajectory of our community.

2025 Community Service Merit Award Winner

Sharon Floyd

Sharon Floyd is the founder of Better Bound Book Store and Youth Development, a nonprofit dedicated to helping at-risk and homeless youth, particularly those in or aging out of foster care. Having experienced homelessness herself, Sharon is deeply committed to providing support, offering teens life skills like getting a driver’s license, opening a bank account, and securing employment. She works full-time at night to devote her days to the organization, using her own money to ensure no teen is turned away. Sharon’s compassion, unwavering dedication, and selfless service inspires many volunteers and drives her mission to help these young people build brighter futures and thrive throughout our community.