Conroe Chamber unveils new design, location for community leaders ‘Wall of Honor’

As Conroe Lake Conroe Chamber of Commerce members and staff prepare for the organization’s 90th anniversary in 2024, a new Wall of Honor feature celebrates community leaders who were the foundation of the group. 

The wall features the names and service dates of 33 Conroe-area leaders. The tribute wall launched in 2001 and the most recent three honorees were added for the 2021 year. The new wall was unveiled Wednesday night.

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Previously the wall was to the right of the chamber entrance. Through updates to the building, the previous plaques were removed and chamber staff took the opportunity to update the special feature.

The tribute wall is now across from the receptionist desk in the center of the building along the building’s main hallway. Chamber President Scott Harper called the new location the most prominent spot in the building. 

The plaques have the 33 names and service dates etched in each block. The frosted blocks are featured on a black background. 

Frederick Walter Woodson had the earliest service date and was the chairman in 1941-42. His daughter, Lucinda Owen, was in attendance for the re-dedication. 

The most recent honorees are Don Stockton, retired Conroe ISD superintendent; Jill Vaughn who had a long career in banking in the Conroe area; and John Holmes a Conroe businessman who was active in a number of organizations. He died in 1997. 

David Friday, chamber chairman in 1995, was a major driver for the initial project when it was launched in 2001. He is also a member of the Wall of Honor and named an honoree in 2010. 

On the second day of Harper taking the president’s job in his first term at the chamber, Friday placed a call to Harper to inquire when the tribute wall could go up. 

The current chamber building at 505 W. Davis opened in 1999. 

“It was my vision to have a recognition of individuals in our community who had served the chamber, served the community and served in a business environment (as a part of the new building),” Friday said. 

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The first dedication ceremony saw 13 honorees added in 2001. Honorees were added in 2003, 2009, 2010, 2011, 2018 and most recently 2021. 

“This wall is sacred,” Friday said to those gathered. “The individuals on that wall are well rounded and have been well rounded within the community.”

Annette Spikes attended the re-dedication with both her sons and their families. 

Her late husband Grady Spikes, a former Justice of the Peace, was an honoree in 2010 and served as a chamber chairman in 1988. He died in 1999. His son, Trey Spikes, now serves in the position.

“My grandkids never got to know Grady and I wanted them to know that he was an activist for our community and hopefully they’ll follow in his footsteps,” Spikes said. “It means a lot that he’s up there with some wonderful people.” 

Next up for the chamber is the annual Chairman’s Ball, set for Jan. 20 at Margaritaville Lake Resort. The ball will celebrate Nick Davis’ year as chairman in 2023 and pass the gavel to Jennifer Millington as the 2024 chairman. The chamber’s 90th anniversary will be recognized as well. 

See the Conroe Lake Conroe Chamber of Commerce website for more.