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Sandra Yi ReportingThe community of Wellsville is mourning the loss of a city council member who once served as Mayor. Kent Brenchley was killed Friday in a tragic accident.
Those who knew Kent Brenchley remember him best as a man dedicated to his family and his city.
Don Hartle: "Small community likt his, the whole community is feeling it."
In the town of Wellsville, it'd be hard to find someone who didn't know Kent Brenchley.
Kevin Brenchley/Kent's son: "He just had a deep commitment to the town and the people here, and loved everyone that he came in contact with."
So much so, he dedicated much of his life to it. Brenchley was mayor from 1982 to 1985. And he was currently serving on the City Council.
Don Hartle/City Manager of Wellsville: "I don't know of many people that was more dedicated to the community they loved than Kent Brenchley was."
Brenchley was doing community service when he died on Friday. He was tearing down an old shed for the city, when part of it collapsed on top of him.
Kevin Brenchley: "Don't know if a big wind gust came up around Friday afternoon around 1:00 and blew it over him."
Family and friends say it was typical for Brenchley to volunteer his time. They recalled when he and one of his grandsons recently spent time gathering blown tree limbs for the city.
Ruth P. Maughan/Mayor of Wellsville: "He's always interested in improving the community in whatever way that he could. The beauty of it, just anything he could do to make an improvement."
As Mayor, Brenchley started "Tree City USA", a program to maintain the trees in his community. Before he died, he was planning an Arbor Day celebration as part of the town's 150th anniversary.
Those who knew him say his death is a big loss, but his legacy will remain here.
Kevin Brenchley: "He was very conscientious about the city. He loved this little town that we live in."
Brenchley was 69 years old. He leaves behind a wife, five children and 22 grandchildren. Funeral services are scheduled for Wednesday.
