LINDEN, TN (WOPC) - During regular session Monday night, the Perry County Commission reviewed a presentation from 'GGM LLC' a recreation and parks advisor group. Over recent months, the group has been contracted to help create a 'master plan' for the rehabilitation and reimagining of parks and public spaces located within Perry County. 

CLICK HERE TO VIEW THE PRESENTATION SLIDES

GGM held several meetings with elected leaders, community organizations and citizens, to create options for upgraded park spaces. The proposal includes relocating Perry County High School Baseball to a new field space within Veterans Park, and expanding the current PCHS football field while adding new buildings and amenities. 

We created a photo gallery for you to easily view the plans. CLICK HERE to be taken to the gallery. If you are viewing on a desktop (suggested) simply use the right and left arrows on your keyboard to scroll the images. 

During Monday's meeting, commissioners voted to 'accept' the plan, as a way of discovering state and federal funding opportunities down the line. The acceptance does not mean all of the proposals will be possible, officials say. 

The full meeting was covered live on the WOPC Facebook page as a community service. 

LINDEN, Tenn. (WOPC) — Local real estate visionary and community leader David Richardson has died following an extended illness. Richardson, who served generations of local families through his company, United Country Richardson Real Estate and Auction, passed away Oct. 2, surrounded by family. Arrangements are posted at the bottom of this article. 

In addition to his years of service helping families navigate the real estate landscape, Richardson gave to numerous causes, helped fund and lead community events, served on countless committees and boards, and worked to support measured growth while preserving the community’s charm.

He was instrumental in establishing the Perry County Chamber of Commerce and the local Industrial Development Board, and he volunteered for years with the Blooming Arts Festival. Richardson was also one of the first local business leaders to support WOPC-FM at its inception, and his family has remained a loyal supporter ever since.

Known as a devoted friend, community servant and Christian family figure, Richardson touched countless lives across the region. Upon news of his passing, community leaders shared memories and tributes with WOPC:

Elizabeth Hinson, an employee of Richardson, said:
"Mr. David was one of a kind. He loved and cared for people unconditionally. He looked for the good in everyone. I was truly blessed to know him, and I am so thankful for the time we spent together. I’m so grateful for the many Chinese restaurant visits and real estate stories, but most of all, thankful for the love he showed me. He treated me as if I were his own."

Michael and Kathy Dumont, owners of the Commodore Hotel in Linden, said:
"We are heartbroken by the passing of our dear friend, David. He was more than a supporter of the Commodore—he was the reason we made Linden our home. Years ago, we purchased property from him, and through his kindness and guidance, he helped us become part of this community. David’s friendship and encouragement will always be remembered, and he will be deeply missed."

Lobelville Mayor Robby Moore added: "He was a great mentor and a great friend of mine. My life has been enhanced by his impact on me and our community. He did so much to change our community’s perception of its value for generations to come. He was a great ambassador for Perry County and the Volunteer State."

Allyson Dickey, Executive DIrector of the Perry County Chamber of Commerce, shared:
"I've been fortunate to know and spend time with Mr. David over the years in numerous capacities. I briefly worked with him as the office manager at United Country Richardson Real Estate, and as Chamber director I worked with him on the Blooming Arts Committee, historical preservation projects and the local Christmas parade.In addition to these roles, I knew him as a member of my church family, the father of a lifelong friend, and a mentor and friend to me and countless others fortunate enough to learn from his example. What I will remember most about Mr. David, in all of these roles and many others, is his humor, humility, warmth and grace. He always had an encouraging word, a quick joke and a smile. This is a tremendous loss for our community."

Stacy Evans, former WOPC Program Director and Morning Show host reflects: "I was blessed to get to know Mr. Richardson in the late 90s while working at the Buffalo River Review. He was a strong advocate for supporting local businesses and advertising . Through our time together, he taught me so much about community, business, fairness, and plain "ol’ common sense". His lighthearted, honest, yet humorous nature quickly gained my respect. Every visit started with taking care of Richardson Real Estate's weekly advertising listings, but it always ended with a humorous "plain ol’ common sense" conversation that I came to look forward to and truly enjoyed. Our media partnership grew from Richardson Real Estate advertising in print to joining me Live On the Air with 101.3 WOPC Home Finder Fridays. Recording commercials and live interviews with Mr. Richardson was always a joy—we never failed to find something to smile or chuckle about. He had such a big Heart for his family, friends, and Perry County. The stories he shared will be treasured. I will always carry many fond memories of our time working together and much respect for the person he was."

Richardson was also known for his love of classic cars. He could often be seen driving one of his restored vehicles or attending local auto shows. His community spirit was especially evident each Christmas, when he volunteered with the local Shriners to coordinate the annual Christmas parade.

He leaves behind a kind, respected family and a strong business legacy. The loss of such a beloved and encouraging figure will be deeply felt across Perry County and beyond. Funeral arrangements have not yet been announced.

Our thoughts are with the Richardson family during this difficult time.

Funeral arrangements for Mr. David Richardson will be: visitation Sunday from 2 to 7 pm and Monday from 11:00 am till 2 pm at Young Funeral Home with the Funeral at 2 pm, burial to follow at Kirk Cemetery.