Five Jacksonville residents were recognized for their leadership, volunteerism and decades of community service during The Jacksonville Council on Elder Affairs annual 2026 Senior Citizens of the Year Awards ceremony this month..
The celebration honored older adults whose dedication to education, neighborhood advocacy, care-giving and community outreach continues to make a lasting impact throughout Duval County.
Under the leadership of Chief of Senior Services Tourea Robinson and Executive Director Dawn Hilliard-Morgan, the council recognized Phillip W. Miner as Male Senior Citizen of the Year for his commitment to education, youth development and community service. Doris Pope received Female Senior Citizen of the Year honors for her advocacy, ministry and efforts to address food insecurity.
Lydia Bell was presented the James L. Fortuna Lifetime Achievement Award for 15 years of neighborhood as president of the Metro Gardens Neighborhood Association. Dr. Annie Shavers received the Caretaker Award for her devoted care and support of her husband, Raymond E. Shavers Sr., while Lorraine Lee earned the Community Service Award for her dedication to seniors, spiritual outreach and volunteerism.
The Jacksonville Council on Elder Affairs advocates for the needs and interest of the city’s aging population, with representation from communities throughout Duval County.
The annual awards highlight the contributions of older residents whose continued services strengthens neighborhoods, supports families and demonstrates that community leadership has no age limit.