The Centers in Marion County, in partnership with the National Alliance on Mental Illness, is recognizing the life of service of Air Force and Coast Guard veteran Royal J. Comeau.
His wife of 31 years, Dorthy Conway Comeau, laid a brick at The Centers on Friday in honor of her late husband, who passed away in 2011.
Comeau served in the Air Force for four years before joining the Coast Guard, where he retired in 1982. He later worked for Morale, Welfare and Recreation at Naval Weapons Station Earle, a Navy base. That division focuses on providing activities and assistance for military members, their family members and civilians on military bases.
Comeau’s service did not stop at his career. He and Dorthy devoted countless hours to the USCG Auxiliary at Station Ft. Lauderdale. Both also offered public training as boating water safety instructors. And Dorthy continues her late husband’s heart of service through community work in Ocala, advocating for mental health.
Officials at The Centers said they were honored to recognize Comeau and provide a special place for the brick dedicated by Dorthy in his memory. And they said they’d like to thank members of the Marion County Honor Guard for paying tribute to their fellow military service member.
Those interested in dedicating a brick in memory of a loved one affected by mental illness can visit the National Alliance on Mental Illness site by clicking HERE.
The Centers is a non-profit organization that has been serving Marion and Citrus counties since 1972. With three locations, approximately 450 employees and 12,500 clients, The Centers provides child welfare services and comprehensive mental health and substance abuse treatment services, including a unique program for mothers battling opioid addiction. Committed to offering quality and affordable care for all in need, The Centers’ goal is to rebuild hope and significantly impact the lives of children and adults in the community each year. For more information, click HERE.