The State of Oklahoma has recognized two outstanding community leaders, James Delbert Ray and Linda Lynde, for their decades of dedicated volunteer service to their local rural water district and community.

James Delbert Ray, who has served on the Board of Directors for 25 years, received special recognition for his extraordinary leadership and perfect attendance record at District 2 Board meetings. Since 2003, he has held the role of Board Chairman, guiding the district through years of growth and development.

Before his volunteer service, Ray brought valuable professional experience from his career as a water operator with the City of Kiefer and later in pipeline operations with Dexon Oil Field, where he retired with distinction. His expertise, commitment, and leadership have left a lasting mark on the water district and the community it serves.

Linda Lynde, who has faithfully volunteered as a Board Director for 27 years has been a guiding presence to ensure the district’s mission of reliable water service. Her connection to the district runs deep. Her parents were among the original incorporators when the water district was first established in 1965. Lynde recalls the humble beginnings when her parents moved to Preston, noting that she knows all too well what it was like to live without running water. Her family started out in a small farmhouse with an outhouse and a well, experiences that shaped her understanding of the importance of reliable water service. She fondly remembers her father stepping up to get involved in the community, playing a role in establishing the Preston water district that would later serve as a lifeline for families like her own.

In an unlikely turn of events, Lynde shared how the wind led her to rediscover a locket she had misplaced for some time, a locket that held photos of her late mother and father. She found it on the very morning of the board meeting presentation, unaware that she would soon be honored by the State of Oklahoma. She chose to wear the locket to the meeting, and in a touching bit of irony, it was as though her parents who helped establish the district decades ago, were there with her in spirit to witness the recognition of her service.

Carrying forward that legacy, Lynde is known for her supportive spirit and willingness to answer questions from the public, she has championed the district’s goals and empowered those around her.

Both commendations signed by State Representatives Chris Banning and Scott Fetgatter praised the honorees as steadfast leaders whose contributions have strengthened their community and inspired future generations.

Community members, staff, and fellow directors celebrated the recognition, witnessing Ray and Lynde to be “pillars of the district” whose volunteer service has safeguarded one of the most essential needs; “clean, reliable water” for thousands of residents.