The impact and lasting effects that the late Mildred Williams Carter have left behind will continue to be felt by many in our community for years to come.

Mildred, who founded Mildred’s Meals, had charm and the ability to bring people together. Her kindness touched the lives of friends and strangers — thousands of whom passed through her business on a weekly or daily basis.

There’s no doubt a void has been left by the 85 year old, who died Thursday, April 27.

“(Mildred) had the type of personality (as someone) who got along with everybody,” said Richard “Dickie” Harris, who’s owned the restaurant since 2013.

Harris said he knew Mildred for about 65 years — most of his life.

Harris, whom we commend for carrying on what Mildred started in 1982, said Mildred’s illness had been especially difficult over the past month, and though the community is relieved she is no longer suffering, Harris said the community will miss Mildred dearly and remember her impact.

“She is a very special lady,” Harris said.

In 1982, Mildred bought The Tea Room and renamed the restaurant Mildred’s Meals.

Her Southern-style cooking was well-known and well-loved, both within and outside Kenbridge.

“The reputation for her restaurant was far and wide,” said Nancy Snead, a legislative assistant for Del. Thomas C. Wright Jr. who worked at Mildred’s Meals on and off for about 20 years.

Snead said Mildred supported local businesses by purchasing produce at area grocery stores.

“She was a local of a person as you could be,” Snead said.

Snead described Mildred as a generous and talented woman who worked tirelessly to make Mildred’s Meals a service and staple to the Kenbridge.

May we all take a lesson from Mildred’s support for her fellow man and the community.