Arnold N. Lakey

Year Inducted: 2015

Arnold N. Lakey was born March 12, 1937, in Mecklenburg County to Henry Gray and Lilla Savannah Rhodes Lakey. Mr. Lakey graduated with honors from West Mecklenburg High School. After graduation from high school, he received a business degree from King’s Business College.

Soon after graduation, Mr. Lakey went to work for Lowe’s Companies and remained there in various capacities for the next 41 years. Mr. Lakey was Vice President of Lowe’s Corporate Credit when he retired in 1998. Lakey has long been active in numerous civic organizations and community projects. He is a 45-year member of the North Wilkesboro Rotary Club where he has served as president, vice president and treasurer and has served as a vice district governor. Among his other community services, Mr. Lakey has been a member of the Wilkes Community College Board of Trustees, the Wilkes Regional Medical Center hospital board, director of the Health Foundation, a member of the Rainbow Center Board of Trustees, a board member of the Wilkes Heritage Museum and a member of the board of the Cultural Arts Council of Wilkes. Mr. Lakey has, throughout his career and beyond, been a strong advocate and supporter of the children of Wilkes through his partnership with Wilkes County Schools.

Officials with the North Carolina Department of Transportation honored Mr. Lakey by dedicating a portion of Highway 421 as the Arnold N. Lakey Highway. The section of highway named in honor of Lakey is about a two-mile stretch between Goforth Road and Pumpkin Run Road west of Wilkesboro. Mr. Lakey is a former member of the North Carolina Board of Transportation.

Arnold N. Lakey is one of Wilkes County’s most notable philanthropists. He was named to The Order of the Long Leaf Pine, which is among the most prestigious awards presented by the governor of North Carolina. Lakey is a member of Wilkesboro United Methodist Church where he has served in many area, including church council chairperson, finance chairman and is a member of the church choir and United Methodist Men. Lakey and his wife, Becky, have been married for more than 55 years and have five children and seven grandchildren.

Lakey is a man of true integrity, honor and passion. He is an individual who gives not only with his finances, but his time, his talent and his instruction. He has a strong desire to see Wilkes County become a better place for all citizens