Foley City Council honored the late Councilman Richard “Dick” Dayton with a proclamation and plaque recognizing his five years of service to the city and community.

Dayton, who was elected to the council in 2020, died Aug. 21. Mayor Ralph Hellmich presented the proclamation to Dayton’s wife, Judy, during the meeting.

“I want you to know how special Mr. D. was to us, and how much he really enjoyed the job, and our city enjoyed him,” Hellmich told her. “I don't think words can express the loss that we have.”

The proclamation highlighted Dayton’s “compassionate leadership, tireless work ethic and commitment to learning and professional growth,” adding that he left “an inevitable mark on the residents of Foley.”

Hellmich said Dayton’s contributions extended well beyond council meetings.

“Councilman Dick Dayton was a great council member,” he said. “I was very impressed with him and his ability to solve problems and work as a team. We're really going to miss him.”

During his first term, Dayton earned the Core and Advanced Certifications from the Alabama League of Municipalities and completed 50% of the credit hours required for the Emeritus Certification.

Before entering public service, Dayton built a decades-long career in franchise development. He held leadership roles as president of Sunbelt Business Brokers and FranNet Franchise Consultants, franchise development director for Arby’s Restaurants and national franchise sales manager for Matco Tools.

After moving to Foley in 2013, Dayton became deeply involved in his neighborhood, serving as president, vice president and chairman of the architectural review committee for the Lake View Estates Property Owners Association. He also volunteered at South Baldwin Medical Center.

Dayton’s academic achievements included a bachelor’s degree in science with a major in marketing and a minor in accounting from the University of Cincinnati, along with a master of business administration from Regent University. He also held certificates as a certified business intermediary from the International Business Brokers Association and as a certified franchise executive from The International Franchise Association.

Dayton and his wife were married for 58 years. They raised two sons and had two grandchildren.