Special to the Leader-Press
The Copperas Cove Education Foundation will honor two local Copperas Cove ISD alumni at their Boots and Buckles Annual Gala on April 5, 2025.
This year’s inductees into the Copperas Cove Education Foundation’s Hall of Honor are Beverly Smith and Larry Lee Letzer, Jr.
The Hall of Honor was established to recognize the achievements and accomplishments of Copperas Cove High School graduates. Nominees must have graduated at least 10 years prior to the nominating year and be recognized as having made outstanding contributions to his/her community and/or profession. They must also be positive roles models for youth in their community.
Beverly Smith graduated from Copperas Cove ISD in 1975. She worked in the family business for 42 years alongside her dad and then her husband. In 2004 and 2013 the business received the Small Business of the Year award from the Copperas Cove Chamber of Commerce. Beverly served as a leader for the Ace Hardware Central Texas Retailer Group and was selected to be a part of the steering committee to develop initiatives for the corporation moving into the 21st Century (Vision 21). She has served on the Salvation Army advisory board for over 25 years. As a business owner, she was active in the Downtown Association which organized events such as Safe Halloween and Krist Kindl Markt. Home Lumber Ace Hardware also supported the youth of Copperas Cove by sponsoring city youth baseball teams and supporting the buyer’s club for livestock shows. In 2008, Beverly was on the steering committee that formed the Copperas Cove Education Foundation and currently serves as the President. In her letter of recommendation, Inez Faison wrote, “Her efforts have opened doors for countless young people, providing them with opportunities to succeed and grow.
Larry Letzer Jr. graduated from Copperas Cove High School in 1983. Larry remained in Copperas Cove to raise his family and continue in the family business. Both of his daughters graduated from Copperas Cove High School. He quietly serves the Copperas Cove community by servicing on a number of committees including the City Charter Review Committee and the Ordinance Committee for the City of Copperas Cove, currently. His work as a photographer allows Larry the opportunity to support the students of Copperas Cove ISD. He is often seen running the sidelines at Bulldawg Stadium capturing the action. He generously provides senior portraits to students who may not be able to receive them otherwise. He also captures memorable moments for each graduating senior by providing them with a photograph as they receive their high school diploma. In her letter of recommendation, Melissa Dewald wrote, “He is a devoted member of the Cove community who consistently gives back in numerous impactful ways.”
Both inductees will be honored at the Boots and Buckles Annual Gala on April 5 at the Copperas Cove Civic Center.
Tickets are now on sale; call 254-547-1227 or email ccef@ccisd.com.
A plaque in their honor will be hung on the walls of Lea Ledger Auditorium alongside past honorees John Hull, Joan Manning, Dr. Karen Harrison, Keith Turner, Glynn Powell, Terri Jernigan, Bradi Diaz, Eddie Wilson, Les Ledger and Linda Ledger.
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