The Shadow
CLIFTON FORGE, VA (VR) – Town Manager Chuck Unroe opened this very special ceremony by paying tribute to Gayle Hillert, a Southern girl who moved to the Midwest after marrying her husband, John. When they retired, they agreed to move back to the South. They chose Virginia and, more specifically, the beautiful Shenandoah Valley. While searching, they found the perfect place, fell in love, and made Clifton Forge their home.
Together, Gayle and John worked tirelessly, side by side, to lead the restoration of the Historic Masonic Theatre. Today, that theatre stands as the heart not only of Clifton Forge but of the entire Alleghany Highlands. Even now, Gayle remains dedicated to its preservation and success, attending and volunteering at virtually every theatre event.
Gayle’s commitment to Clifton Forge did not stop there. She chose to serve her community by running for Town Council, where she was elected by the citizens she cared so deeply about. She later served as Vice Mayor, continuing to lead with the same passion and dedication that have defined everything she has done.
Gayle’s volunteer service has touched nearly every corner of our community. She has, and still does, volunteer for the John Hillert Souper Sundays at the Historic Masonic Theatre, helping raise funds that directly support the Clifton Forge Area Food Pantry. She has worked on the Corridor Curb Appeal effort, Heritage Day celebrations, the Gran Fondo, the Stars and Stripes Celebration, and our Fourth of July Parade and program at the Historic Masonic Theatre.
Today, in addition to serving as President of the Board of Directors of the Historic Masonic Theatre, Gayle continues to be the driving force behind the Community Gathering Planning Committee, helping shape the future of our town. Simply put, Gayle and her family have meant so much to Clifton Forge and to our ongoing journey to restore this town, preserve its history, and secure its future.
Town Manager Unroe continued by saying, “It is my honor and privilege to recognize you tonight as a true Champion of Clifton Forge.
“When I first wrote these remarks, I planned to congratulate you on receiving this recognition, but the more I thought about it, the more I realized that congratulations just didn’t seem to fit. We congratulate people when they reach a goal they set out to accomplish, when they earn an award, or when they achieve a milestone. But that’s not why you did any of this.
“Everything you have done for Clifton Forge—for this theatre, for this community, and for the people who call it home—has come from your heart. You never sought recognition. You never asked for praise. You simply saw what needed to be done and quietly went to work because you believed it was the right thing to do. Through every challenge, your commitment has never wavered. So tonight, instead of offering congratulations, I simply want to say two words that come from all of us…thank you.
“Thank you for your vision, your leadership, your generosity, and your unwavering love of Clifton Forge.”
Mayor Jeff Irvine revealed the Champion of Clifton Forge banner, and Unroe said that the banner will hang proudly along our Sensory Trail beside your friends and fellow volunteers, Bill and Mott Atherholt, and alongside the future Champions of Clifton Forge whose lives, like yours, will leave a lasting legacy on this remarkable community.
Gayle made the following statement:
“This is an incredible honor, and I believe it reflects the strong spirit of volunteerism that is woven throughout the Alleghany Highlands. Volunteering provides a deep sense of purpose while bringing people together in friendship and community to make a positive difference. It is especially rewarding to see the progress and impact that can come from working together. Volunteering in this community has been a true blessing in my life, and I am deeply grateful for this recognition. The work continues, and I look forward to serving alongside so many dedicated volunteers in the years ahead.”
Congratulations to Gayle Hillert for being chosen as the 2026 Champion of Clifton Forge.
