In a year filled with challenges, change and resilience, Martinsville and Henry County continued to evolve. From government decisions and economic developments to community conversations and public safety concerns, 2025 reflected both the complexities and strengths of the region.
This Year in Review revisits the moments that mattered most; the stories that informed, impacted and connected the community throughout the year.
January
Jones, Lawson to lead Martinsville City Council
At its Thursday, January 2 reorganizational meeting, the Martinsville City Council elected LC Jones as mayor and Kathy Lawson as vice mayor. This is Jones’ second term as mayor and Lawson’s first as vice mayor.
FAHI Museum, Alumni to Collaborate to Supply City Teachers with Supply Closet
The FAHI Museum has launched a new initiative in collaboration with alumni from several Martinsville High School graduating classes to support local teachers. The project, dubbed the “Teacher’s Closet,” aims to ease the financial burden teachers face when buying classroom supplies.
February
Blackberry native honored with Jack Dalton Community Service Award
The Henry County Board of Supervisors presented Clifford Stone with the 2024 Jack Dalton Community Service Award during its Jan. 28 meeting, recognizing his extensive volunteer work and lifelong commitment to the Bassett community.
“This prestigious award is a tribute to the legacy of Mr. Jack Dalton, whose exemplary public service set a standard of commitment and selflessness that continues to inspire our community,” said Board Chairman Jim Adams.
Ridgeway recognizes a longtime volunteer for legacy of community service
The Ridgeway Town Council honored C.D. Prillaman, a longtime volunteer, business owner, and community advocate, with a resolution recognizing his years of dedicated service to the town. The resolution acknowledges Prillaman’s contributions through his company, Prillaman Landscape Dimensions, Inc., and his involvement with local civic projects. Mayor Craig O’Der praised Prillaman as a visionary and dedicated leader.
March
Board to fill vacant seat after member resigns
Stephanie Brinegar, Horsepasture District representative on the Henry County School Board, resigned, citing increasing career obligations as the reason for her departure. “Every decision I made and every vote I cast was driven by a genuine desire to do what was best for Henry County Public Schools,” Brinegar said in a release dated March 11.
Rawls escorted from Martinsville meeting after tense exchange
Council member and former Vice Mayor Aaron Rawls was escorted from the March 25 Martinsville City Council meeting and the municipal building after a tense exchange with Mayor LC Jones. During his comments near the end of the meeting, Rawls referred to an unsigned document shared with him during the meeting, and added it was written by “a coward.”
April
Rawls’ removal sparks accusations, conflicting accounts among city officials
The chaotic removal of former Vice Mayor Aaron Rawls from a March 25 Martinsville City Council meeting has ignited a firestorm of accusations, conflicting narratives, and concerns about government transparency and authority. Rawls, flanked by council member Julian Mei, held a press conference March 27 and alleged City Manager Aretha Ferrell-Benavides of orchestrating his removal, and to criticize the council’s handling of controversial topics, including executive pay raises. In response, city officials – including Ferrell Benavides, Mayor LC Jones, Vice Mayor Kathy Lawson, and Rayshaun Gravely – denied any coordinated effort to oust Rawls.
Doss works to preserve town and company history
Andrew Doss is working to preserve the history of Bassett – both the town and the company that shares its name – and to share it with others, Doss manages Bassett – Looking Back. Moving Forward, a Facebook group where members can find historic photos and information about the town. He also helps preserve the company’s legacy as part of Bassett Furniture.
Lawless to invest $1 million, drive revitalization in community
Chris Lawless, who is running for the Collinsville District seat on the Henry County Board of Supervisors, announced a $1 million investment in a property that will become home to Lawless Welding and Fabrications Inc. He announced the investment, ongoing work and plans at a press conference that was held at his newly acquired property at 1687 Stultz Road, a site formerly used by the Henry County Public Service Authority and Virginia Department of Transportation.
Mayor targets ‘unethical practices’ with proposed city probe
Martinsville Mayor LC Jones directed City Manager Aretha Ferrell-Benavides to work with the city attorney to launch a proposed investigation into the actions of city officials regarding unethical practices, neglect, and misuse of office. Jones said the investigation would include council members, city employees, constitutional officers, public safety, as well as volunteers who are members of boards and commissions. “All city operations,” he said.
May
Ridgeway’s inaugural Bee Festival draws crowd, community praise
The Town of Ridgeway’s first Bee Festival was a major success, according to Mayor Craig O’Der. Held Saturday, May 3, O’Der said the event helped bring the community together in celebration and education. In addition to the festival celebrating Ridgeway becoming a Bee City USA town, O’Der said it also satisfied the yearly required educational program the town has to hold to maintain that distinction.
County breaks ground on housing project in Villa Heights
A transformative housing initiative is underway in the Villa Heights area of Collinsville, marking a collaborative effort between the Henry County Board of Supervisors, the Harvest Foundation, and the West Piedmont Planning District Commission (WPPDC). The partnership aims to construct 13 single-family homes that had previously been removed and had suffered from drug-related incidents.
June
Supervisors fund demolition of unsafe homes across county
The Henry County Board of Supervisors appropriated $390,000 from its general fund balance to demolish 39 unsafe structures throughout the county during its meeting Tuesday, June 24. Enforcement actions will also be taken on other properties in need of remediation. Chairman Jim Adams, of the Blackberry District, said the board has heard loud and clear from residents that blighted and unkempt properties are a concern, and were highlighted in the results of a recent survey.
July
Bassett landmark razed, adjacent roof collapses
A significant piece of Bassett’s history was lost Monday, June 23, when a two-story structure, located at Reed and Stone streets and former home of Adams Furniture, was demolished due to safety concerns. “This is one of a series of buildings that went up in the early 1930s,” said local historian Andrew Doss, who has studied and photographed the area’s architecture. “Originally, the Reed Stone mansion sat on that block, with the Bassett Mercantile on its left and a shop on the right.”
City manager placed on paid leave, council orders forensic audit
Following a closed session meeting Wednesday, Martinsville City Council approved several major actions, including allocating $20,000 for an outside firm to conduct a forensic audit and placing City Manager Aretha Ferrell-Benavides on paid administrative leave, effective immediately. The two motions were passed by majority vote, with Mayor LC Jones casting the lone “no” vote each time.
August
Fincher named interim city manager in unanimous vote
Police Chief Rob Fincher was named Martinsville’s interim city manager during the Tuesday, Aug. 12 city council meeting. His appointment was approved on a 5-0 vote. Fincher thanked the council for allowing him to continue serving the community he loves.
“I know that regardless of how we’ve reached this point, there is an element of trust that needs to be restored with the community. I can tell you that there are no better people to do that than the employees of the city of Martinsville,” he said.
After 81 years missing, Sgt. Thornton honored with Arlington burial
After being missing in action for 81 years, U.S. Army Sgt. Ivor Darrell Thornton of Ridgeway was identified and laid to rest in Arlington National Cemetery on Friday, Aug. 15 Thornton, 34, was killed on Omaha Beach in Normandy, France, on June 6, 1944 – D-Day. He was assigned to Company H, 2nd Battalion, 116th Infantry Regimental Combat Team, 29th Infantry Division.
FAHI’s newest exhibit honors local athletes
The Fayette Area Historical Initiative’s (FAHI) newest exhibit, honoring African American athletes from the region, opened Wednesday, Aug. 13. FAHI Executive Director Charisse Hairston said about 22 athletes are featured. It includes photographs, biographical information, and sports memorabilia such as jerseys, gloves, helmets, bats, balls, and books.
September
Prosecutor blasts Martinsville report as “highly redacted”
Martinsville Commonwealth’s Attorney G. Andrew Hall is raising sharp concerns about the city’s handling of the report that led to the recent termination of former City Manager Aretha Ferrell-Benavides’ contract. Although City Council voted in August to authorize its attorney to share pertinent information with him for possible criminal proceedings, Hall said what he received was inadequate. “I think one of them said (to forward) the pertinent information to the commonwealth attorney,” Hall said. “What we got is a highly redacted report. It’s just page after page completely blacked out. It paints a pretty damning picture of the city manager, but city council really isn’t mentioned.”
Tin Ridge facility to strengthen U.S. supply chain, boost local economy
Henry County will soon be home to the nation’s first large-scale ton processing facility. Nathan Trotter, the largest tin and solder alloys manufacturer in North America, announced it will invest $65 million to construct Tin Ridge, a metal production and processing facility at the Patriot Centre Industrial park. The 115,000-square-foot facility will be built on Tract 4 of the park and is expected to create about 118 new jobs once operational.
October
Martinsville EDA wins $1 million grant to redevelop historic furniture plant
The Martinsville Economic Development Authority (EDA) scored a major win with the recent approval of a $1 million grant from the Virginia Tobacco Region Revitalization Commission to help transform the historic American of Martinsville Plant 10 located at 51 Lester Street. “This is our first big win” since the city’s EDA was reactivated about two years ago, Del. Eric Phillips, chairman of the Martinsville EDA board, said. “It also is the largest grant award” for housing “from the Tobacco Commission to date.”
Ridgeway Volunteer Fire Department receives $15,000 grant
The Town of Ridgeway presented a $15,000 check to the Ridgeway Volunteer Fire Department on Wednesday, Oct. 1. The funding comes through the Virginia Fire Programs Fund, for which the town applied earlier this year. “We’re glad to support them in any way,” Mayor Craig O’Der said.
Inclusive playground opens at Meadow View Elementary
Laughter and cheers filled the air Monday at Meadow View Elementary School as students, educators, and Lions Club members cut the ribbon on a new inclusive playground. For the first time, children of all abilities can play, learn, and grow together on equipment designed with accessibility in mind. Schools Superintendent Dr. Amy Blake-Lewis said, “Meadow View has long been a place where students with disabilities are not only supported but celebrated. This inclusive playground reflects that spirit. It represents our shared commitment to ensuring that all students have access to the same opportunities for connection, joy, and discovery.”
November
Board supports resolution for Page Memorial Bridge
The Henry County Board of Supervisors approved a resolution supporting the Town of Ridgeway’s petition to name a bridge in honor of former Mayor Edward M. Page Sr.
“They are formally asking the board to support the town’s request to the Commonwealth Transportation Board to name the bridge located on Main Street in Ridgeway as the Mayor Edward M. Page Sr. Memorial Bridge,” County Administrator Dale Wagoner said. Page served as Ridgeway’s mayor for 24 years, from 1990 to 2014. He passed away on June 9, 2025.
Carrying the weight: Ruck march highlights veteran suicide crisis
A Martinsville resident and Army veteran is in the middle of his fourth annual November “ruck march” to raise awareness about veteran suicide and support Stop Soldier Suicide, a veteran-founded and led national nonprofit based in Raleigh, North Carolina. Every day this month, Dennis Bender says he and several Army buddies walk at least 2.2 miles to raise awareness and attention for the organization.
Fincher to step down as chief, continue as interim city manager
Martinsville’s Police Chief Robert Fincher will step down from his role as Chief of Police effective January 1 and continue in his role as Interim City Manager. “After more than three decades in law enforcement, I feel it is the right time to take on the next chapter of my career,” said Fincher, who has served the Martinsville Police Department for 31 years, including the last three years as Chief of Police.
Rehder named 2025 Outstanding Military Veteran
The 2025 Outstanding Military Veteran Award was presented to John A. Rehder during a Veterans Day ceremony held Tuesday at the HJDB Event Center in Bassett. “The individual we recognize today has lived a life of quiet leadership and consistent service. He spent nine years in the U.S. Army Reserve, attaining the rank of sergeant first class. Over the course of his military career, he filled many roles,” said Henry County Board of Supervisors Horsepasture District representative Debra Buchanan.
December
More than 250 coats donated during annual Coat Drive for kids
More than 250 coats and hoodies collected during the annual Coat Drive for Kids were presented to the Henry County Board of Supervisors during its Nov. 25 meeting. The donations came from Appalachian Power (AEP) and the Campbell Family Foundation. The drive was started 30 years ago by Supervisor Debra Buchanan of the Horsepasture District and has grown over the decades through the generosity of businesses, churches, and individuals.
Auker, Durden to retire from school board
Board members Thomas Auker and Elizabeth Durden were honored at the Henry County School Board’s Dec. 4 meeting, with both to officially retire from the board on Dec. 31. Auker held his position as Blackberry District representative for 12 years. The driving force during his tenure was his dedication to the students and teachers of Henry County, he said. Durden represented the Collinsville District for four years. She originally ran for office to be a voice for her community from the perspective of a parent.
First four Villa Heights project homes up for sale
A ribbon cutting was held to celebrate the completion of the first four newly built homes of the Villa Heights housing project on Tuesday, Dec. 16.
Henry County Board of Supervisors Chairman Jim Adams, of the Blackberry District, said the homes are part of a long-term effort to address drug blighted properties and replace them with safe, affordable, single family housing.
“This project reflects a clear goal of the Board of Supervisors to strengthen our existing neighborhoods while expanding workforce housing opportunities,” he said.
Adams noted housing is directly tied to economic development.
“When people have access to stable, affordable homes it supports local employers, helps families put down roots, and encourages reinvestment in our communities,” he said.
Adams said the four homes represent the first phase of a plan to bring 13 new homes to the area over time as funding becomes available.
Lawson calls for investigation following Rawls claims
Vice Mayor Kathy Lawson on Dec. 16 called for an official investigation into alleged wrongdoing, asking Interim City Manager Rob Fincher to look into claims made by City Council member Aaron Rawls during a Dec. 11 press conference.
During the event, Rawls alleged wrongdoing among council members. He also alleged corruption that predated his time on council.
“Every day, I’ve been waiting for various arms of law enforcement to deal with these folks,” Rawls said. “I was upset we didn’t have indictments this past round. If we don’t have them by February, I don’t know what else to do. I don’t want citizens waiting past that.”
Lawson raised the issue during a Martinsville City Council meeting that otherwise focused on routine ordinances, policy updates and appropriations.
Citizen effort seeks removal of Martinsville mayor
A group of Martinsville residents announced Tuesday that they are organizing a petition effort seeking the removal of Mayor LC Jones from City Council.
Patti Covington, identified as the principal administrator of the effort, alleged in a release from the group that “after over 18 agonizing months of scandal, disruption, fiscal mismanagement, and malfeasance, citizens are finally saying enough is enough. Every elected official has an ethical obligation to citizens, but the standard for our mayor as the official head of our city is even higher.”
