Winchester and Clark County lost one of its best this week.

Graham Johns was a coach, a mentor, an advocate, a friend, a volunteer, a father, a husband and a proud Clark Countian.

He died Wednesday at the age of 66, creating a void that will be difficult to fill. But, he leaves a legacy that should inspire others to rise to the occasion and do just that.

Coretta Scott King once said, “The greatness of a community is most accurately measured by the actions of its members.”

In our opinion, Graham Johns was the embodiment of that. He was one of the purest examples of the idea that a community is only as great as its citizens.

Graham worked at East Kentucky Power Cooperative, but really shined in his roles as a community volunteer for numerous organizations. He served on various boards and belonged to many local groups.

He was a member of Toastmasters, an emcee, played Santa Claus for downtown Winchester events, served on the Main Street Winchester Board of Directors, coached youth athletics, sang, acted and volunteered for Clark County Community Services.

There are probably many more ways he was involved in improving his community.

People had many nice things to say about Graham after his passing; they remarked on his sense of humor, his immense talent, his sacrficial nature, his community-mindedness and more.

For us, Graham was an inspiration. He inspired by his deeds and his words. As cliche as it sounds, Graham didn’t just talk the talk, he walked it, too.

He didn’t just sit by and hope for a better Winchester. He put those aspirations into action. He shared his ideas and listened to others share theirs. He rolled  up his sleeves and as he tightened his tie, served those in need and was a great advocate and representative for our community.

We are sad to see someone who we worked alongside for many years pass. But we are hopeful his legacy will live on in those who he impacted. He would like to see those individuals rise up, fill the void and recruit others to do the same.

It is what Graham would have wanted and it is what he spent his life doing.

He will be missed, but his vision for a greater Winchester and Clark County lives on.