Grapevine-Colleyville ISD and the Walk of Honor Committee are proud to announce the inaugural class of the GCISD Walk of Honor. These eight individuals have served the District with honor, distinction, and service and will be honored permanently with plaques at the newly renovated Mustang Panther Stadium.
W.F. Cannon, Madeleine Hemley, Riney Jordan, Russell Kidd, Larry Oliver, William D. Tate, Jim Thompson and Ted Wilhoite were honored on Friday, October 26, in a ceremony at the Mustang Activity Center at Grapevine High School. The group was also honored at the annual Battle of the Red Rail football game that night.
WILLIAM FRANKLIN CANNON, JR.
W.F. Cannon is the district’s longest serving superintendent from 1938 to 1958 during which time he laid the foundation for GCISD’s dedication to excellence. The school system expanded quickly after the war, with students bussed from six surrounding communities. Because of this growth, the school district built a new 1st – 8th grade school, a homemaking cottage, a shop, and, finally, a new high school. W.F. Cannon was so loved by the community that Cannon Elementary School was named for him.
MADELEINE HEMLEY
A legacy of song is the gift that Madeleine gave her students and to GCISD fine arts. She was instrumental in starting a music program for public schools and inspiring a love of music in all her students. She inspired three generations of Grapevine students, teaching 1st - 12th grade music from 1943 to 1973.
RINEY JORDAN
As teacher, principal, Director of Communications, and Assistant to the Superintendent from 1967-1997, Riney's inspiring influence helped propel GCISD to become a destination district for residents and educators. Known as "Mr. Grapevine”, he was a leader in community organizations, businesses, and church. His many honors include GCISD's first Excellence in Education Award and Grapevine's 1982 Citizen of the Year.
RUSSELL KIDD
A 1980 GHS graduate and tireless volunteer, Russell has dedicated himself to serving his community and alma mater. He is continually involved in city committees, community events, little league sports, GHS athletics, and the GCISD FFA, although most often as a behind-the-scenes force. President for over 20 years, he is a vital part of the GHS Ex-Students Association, always working to preserve the Mustang legacy.
LARRY OLIVER
A 1966 GHS graduate, teacher, Director of Operational Services and Administrative Services, and Chief of Finance and Operational Services, Larry's imprint influences GCISD's path today. His passion for community shows in his involvement, 10 years as a Councilman and over 30 years with Planning & Zoning. His awards include being a Distinguished Alumni and a Distinguished Faculty honoree in the GHS Hall of Fame.
WILLIAM D. TATE
Bill's legacy began at GHS as an athlete, Lone Star Farmer, and Mr. GHS. Like his father and grandfather before him, he became a dedicated citizen, serving as Grapevine's mayor for over 40 years with his vision leading the transformation from a small agricultural town to a destination city. His many honors include the Boy Scouts Silver Eagle Award, Grapevine's 1976 Citizen of the Year, and GHS Hall of Fame.
DR. JAMES THOMPSON
Under his leadership as superintendent from 1993 to 2000, Dr. Thompson launched GCISD into the 21st century, transforming it into the district we know today. During those years, GCISD experienced exponential growth leading to the development of a second high school campus and four new elementary campuses.
WILEY DELOYS (TED) WILLHOITE
Civic leader, education supporter, volunteer, historical artist – Ted was legendary, resulting in the Grapevine Chamber's establishing the Ted Willhoite Legacy Award. A business leader for over four decades and on the School Board from 1945-1963, his awards include Citizen of the Year and the Northeast Tarrant County Volunteer of the Year. His talent left a rich history in his paintings of the early school buildings.