The Dawson County Chamber of Commerce honored late Dawsonville Mayor Joe Lane Cox on Monday night by presenting a proclamation to his family and the city council.

Jennifer Baker, 2012 chamber chairwoman, read the proclamation of appreciation for outstanding civic service.

"He was a servant leader who had the courage to stand by his convictions regarding what he deemed the best outcome for the community," she said.

The proclamation listed Cox's numerous contributions to the community, including his service as mayor, probate judge, sole county commissioner and chairman of the 13 county Georgia Mountains Regional Commission.

Linda Williams, chamber president, described Cox as "a visionary, very supportive of quality business."

"I always admired him for his ability to stand up for his convictions," she said. "He knew the best outcome would be for the county at large and the city at large. We appreciate a great leader."

Mayor Pro Tem James Grogan, who was appointed as acting mayor during the meeting, addressed the Cox family.

"I would like to thank the family for being here," he said. "I know it is a very difficult thing when you are in your grieving process to come and stand before all of us. I think that shows something of the strength and character of this family."

Daughter Joy Harben expressed gratitude for the words spoken in honor of her father.

"As a family, we're just so honored that they included us in the presentation," she said. "The chamber could have presented the proclamation to the city, but they included us and allowed us to be there to stand there for Daddy.

"We are so proud of him, and we don't want people to forget him. If you look around the city and the county, there are so many buildings and roads that he played a role in starting."

The council also voted Monday to name the meeting area adjacent to the council chambers the "Joe Lane Cox Community Room."

Harben said it is a fitting tribute.

"I know he was real proud of getting that building, and he did catch a lot of flak about it," she said.

"It's good to know that he touched so many people's lives."

Staff writer Michele Hester contributed to this story.