Longtime Florence city council member David A. Osborne died on Jan. 10. He was 84.
During Tuesday’s council meeting, city officials shared the news. Having served on council for close to 47 years, Osborne had just been sworn in for another term a few weeks ago.
“It is with profound sadness I share the passing of our beloved council member, David A Osborn,” said Mayor Mayor Julie Aubuchon. “David’s life was a testament to dedication, service and love for the city of Florence. David was born and raised here in Florence, and his deep roots in our community shaped his lifelong commitment to serving others. He began his journey as a council member in 1976 serving until 1989 and then again, from 1992 to this very year.”
The mayor noted Osborne came to the last meeting after being released from the hospital; such was his determination to serve the city.
“David was a man who never met a stranger,” Aubuchon said. “To know him was to love him. His hearty laugh could brighten any room, and his grin could bring a smile to even the lowest of days. He had a unique way of making everyone feel valued and uplifted. His passion for Florence and its people was unmatched only by his devotion to honoring our veterans as a proud US Army veteran himself.”
The council then paused for a moment of silence before Vice Mayor Diane Whalen said, “I just think a moment of silence is not David. He didn’t enjoy the silence. He enjoyed laughing and talking and meeting people. And so, in addition to a moment of silence, everybody can give him a big round of applause because that’s David.”
Council is now charged with filling the empty seat. They went into executive session to discuss how to proceed Tuesday night. Upon return, Whelan announced that the council will accept letters of intent from the public to be received no later than 5 p.m. on Wednesday, Jan. 22. Letters will be discussed in executive session at the council meeting on Jan. 28, and the plan is to come to consensus and make an appointment at that time.
To qualify for the position, a person must be a qualified voter, at least 18 years old, have lived in the city for a year, and plan to live in the city for the entirety of the term. Send letters to City Clerk Melissa Kramer at melissa.kramer@florence-ky.gov. Information will also be available on the Florence city website.
“David will be forever an integral part of Florence and of every person who was fortunate enough to know him,” Aubuchon said. “His contributions to our city are immeasurable, and his spirit will live on in the hearts of those he touched.”
He leaves behind his wife of 45 years, Pamela Osborne, their children Kelli Ann and Kevin, and two grandchildren. Visitation is Saturday, Jan. 25, from 11 a.m. to noon, followed by a celebration of life ceremony. It will be held at First Church of Christ, 6080 Camp Ernst Road in Burlington.