On Monday, the Drakes Branch community lost a beloved member of their town, Juanita Hamlett.

Many will remember Hamlett as a town council member who at one point was also the mayor of Drakes Branch. She served her community for 28 years, and did it gladly.

Being a staple to the community and volunteering one’s time it not a job for just any person — nor is it one that many would choose to do.

But, it is a service that Hamlett wanted to do for her community — and one that many will agree she did well.

Hamlett also worked at The Charlotte Gazette, which makes us even sadder to see one of our past contributors leave us.

When looking at her death, we should not stay sad for long, but instead, smile and strive to do the same for our community that she surely did.

Don’t sit around and wait for opportunities to present themselves.

Take charge and go after those opportunities.

Take the time to get to know your community and go to area events to show your support for your neighbors and friends.

Most importantly, don’t waste your skills. Bring them to the table at your community meetings and stand up for what you believe in.

We can all make a difference and Hamlett is proof of that.