By Uriah Kiser
Dumfries, Va. – As much as he was fired up lately about a foul stench coming from a landfill, he was equally as excited about a new park and coming street scape improvements on Dumfries’ Main Street.
Dumfries Mayor Fred Yohey died Sunday at age of 63 after complications from juvenile diabetes, said Dumfries Vice Mayor Nancy West. It’s an ailment that haunted him all of his life, one Yohey would discuss with West when he would call her at home to discuss the events of the day.
“I feel like I’ve lost a good friend,” said West. “You know, people from our generation, like Fred, who have juvenile diabetes didn’t have a long life expectancy. Fred said he expected to live until his early to mid thirties, and he once told me ‘I’ve beat the odds and lived this long,’” said West.
West and her husband met Yohey while attending Dumfries United Methodist Church.
Over the course of the last month Yohey’s health was beginning to fade. West presided over the town’s last council meeting on Nov. 1 in Yohey’s absence. His eyesight was failing and he resigned from driving a car, said West.
He was admitted to Sentara Potomac Hospital on Oct. 22 and was placed into medical coma. Word of his death came late Sunday night.
Yohey, a retired federal worker, made a day job out of being mayor. Most days showed up at town hall at 10 a.m. and stay until after 5 p.m. “He was really excited about the staff we have working in the town, about how well trained and professional they are,” said West.
Yohey would have turned 64-years-old next month, and had he just finished serving the the first two years of a four-year term. It was his second term as elected mayor.
Town council will meet again Nov. 15 and West will once more preside over the meeting. Its expected she will serve as interim town mayor for up to 45 days until the council appoints a new mayor.
The town will hold a scheduled election in May as three current town council members, including West, will be up for reelection. If a mayoral candidate steps forward in May and is elected, they will serve the remaining two years of Yohey’s term, said West.
A memorial service will be held for Yohey at 1 p.m. Thursday at Mountcastle Funeral Home on Dale Boulevard in Dale City. He will be buried at Dumfries Cemetery behind Dumfries Elementary School.
Recent Stories
If you’re considering adding a furry friend to your family, look no further than Aria Mia, a sweet little kitten currently up for adoption at Prince William County Animal Services. This brave little one arrived as a stray with injuries to both of her eyes. Aria Mia has already undergone surgery on one eye and will need follow-up treatment for the other. Despite her challenges, she’s shown incredible resilience and is ready to start a new chapter with a loving family.
Aria Mia has already proven that she’s not just a cat lover but a dog lover too! During her recovery at Caring Hands Veterinary Clinic, she showed how well she gets along with dogs. So, if you’re looking for a kitten who can coexist with your furry canine companions, Aria Mia might just be the perfect fit for you.
Come meet Aria Mia today and see for yourself what a sweet, loving companion she can be. She’s eager to find her forever home and start the next phase of her life in a caring and compassionate environment.
Deuntay Diggs, Chair of Stafford County’s Board of Supervisors, indicated Tuesday evening that he is prepared to take legal action should some of his colleagues continue to ask for an amendment to the Code of Performance that “adversely affects my career, my calling,” reports the FXBG Advance.
A report from the Federal Railroad Administration requested by Fredericksburg City Council and Mayor Kerry Devine on this past summer’s freight car derailment blames human error for the mishap, reports the FXBG Advance.
The Stafford County Board of Supervisors is progressing toward finalizing a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) between the Economic Development Authority (EDA) and the Department of Economic Development.
The draft MOU aims to clarify the roles and responsibilities of both entities in promoting economic growth and business attraction within the county. However, concerns raised by some Board members suggest that the document may need further refinement before it can be adopted.
During a work session on January 28, 2025, Liz Barber, the county’s Director of Economic Development, presented the draft MOU, highlighting the extensive process that led to its creation. The document was developed over the past year, with input from both county administration and EDA members. Its goal is to establish clear guidelines and expectations for the EDA and the Department of Economic Development, particularly regarding the administrative processes, division of duties, and collaboration between the two bodies.
Travel to French soil and join us for a night filled with two of the most beloved French traditions—no plane ticket required! ?
On January 25th, we invite you to experience the magic of Galette des Rois, a 700-year-old tradition celebrated across France throughout the entire month of January (and even beyond!). This sweet, almond-filled puff pastry topped with a golden crown isn’t just a treat—it’s a celebration! The lucky person who finds the fève (a porcelain charm hidden in one of the slices) becomes the King or Queen for the Day, and don’t worry—there will be plenty of royalty to go around! ??
But that’s not all! In France, Les Voeux (New Year’s wishes) continue throughout January, often accompanied by Champagne and good cheer. We’re bringing that festive spirit to you, with a lively evening packed with French food, wine, and music.
What’s in store:
Experience the passion and drama of Puccini’s “The Girl from the Golden West”.
Featuring special guest musicians from The Chesapeake Youth Orchestra,
this performance brings Puccini’s masterpiece to life with an extraordinary cast.
