FRANKLIN—Donald “Don” Blythe Sr. was in attendance Monday night with his daughter Becky Cumbey and his grandson Trevor, 9, as the Franklin City Council paused to recognize his leadership.

The ward 6 representative was elected to serve a four-year term in 2010, and he did so until suffering a stroke in October 2012.

His term continued while he recovered until June 30, when the seat changed hands to Frank Rabil, who was elected unopposed. Blythe did not seek reelection.

Blythe, seated in a wheelchair, was in good spirits and said he was doing better as each member of council shook his hand and thanked him for his dedication to the community.

After Mayor Raystine Johnson-Ashburn presented him with a plaque, ward 3’s Greg McLemore had some things to say about Blythe.

“The City of Franklin owes you a debt of gratitude,” he said. “If it hadn’t been for your service to the city, we might have both the Navy in here, as well as the deemed unconstitutional charter changes.

“Your service and diligence, spending your money driving to Richmond, protected not just this council, but future councils. I thank you for the support.”

McLemore said Blythe had also given him a lot of support as a councilor.

“I’m so sorry you fell sick before your term was completed,” he said. “I wish you a speedy recovery.”

Blythe is recovering at home with his daughter.