Last week, we celebrated two of Fayetteville and Cumberland County's most dedicated and beloved siblings of the Breece family.
Robert and Corey Breece were honored by being initiated into North Carolina's most prestigious organization, the Order of the Long Leaf Pine Society. Surrounded by friends, family, and elected government officials, State House Representative Diane Wheatley presented Robert and Corey this distinguished state honor on behalf of Governor Roy Cooper at their family business, Rogers & Breece Funeral Home on Ramsey St..
Since 1964, the Order of the Long Leaf Pine has been the most prestigious award a North Carolina Governor has presented to citizens. Robert and Corey now join thousands of outstanding NC residents with documented records of extraordinary, dedicated, and enthusiastic service to the state, their communities, and humanity.
Undoubtedly, these two lifelong Fayettevillians had no trouble fulfilling those qualifications.
Robert and Corey are carrying on the business of their forefathers, a business and calling steeped in 126 years of tradition, love, and compassion. Both brothers cannot hide their pride in operating the family business with their sons and the knowledge and confidence that the Breece legacy is guaranteed.
I have known these gentlemen for over four decades. It was heartwarming to witness such a well-deserved honor being bestowed on two people who first and foremost credit their success and good fortunes in life unequivocally to God and the patriotic freedoms they enjoy daily as Americans.
State Representatives Garland Pearce, Charles Smith, and Diane Wheatley represented Gov. Roy Cooper as Wheatley read the proclamation:
For dedication and service beyond expectation and excellence to the Great State of North Carolina, on behalf of the citizens of this state, I bestow upon:
Robert Breece and Corey Breece
The Old North State Award
'Working together, we can make North Carolina the place of unlimited opportunity — a place where anyone who studies hard, works hard, and lives a life with high values can fulfill and even exceed their potential.'
Roy Cooper
Governor of North Carolina
This was followed by the tradition of reciting the official toast of North Carolina:
Here's to the land of the long-leaf pine,
The summer land where the sun doth shine,
Where the weak grow strong, and the strong grow great,
Here's to "Down Home," the Old North State!
Again, congratulations to Corey and Robert on this lifetime achievement.
And, to our followers, thank you for reading Up & Coming Weekly.

(Photo: Robert (Left) and Corey Breece are initiated in the Order of the Long Leaf Pine Society, Aug. 21. The brothers are continuing their family's legacy at the Rogers & Breece Funeral Home on Ramsey St. Photos by Bill Bowman)