ADAMS TWP — The Rotary pavilion was filled Monday night when the supervisors meeting began with a memorial for supervisor Clay Morrow.

Morrow, who joined the board of supervisors after being elected to the position in 2019, died Sept. 7 at UPMC Shadyside Hospital.

Supervisors recounted Morrow's service to the township Monday night.

Russell Ford, supervisor chairman, said the board briefly considered canceling the township meeting.

“We know that's not what Clay would want,” Ford said. “I know exactly what Clay would have said: 'The show must go on.'”

“Clay was the baby supervisor,” said Linda Lees, a supervisor. “He was only a supervisor for seven months. I already miss him.”

Morrow's wife, Karen, and two of their children were present during the ceremony. Following a live rendition of the “Star Spangled Banner,” Ford invited members of the public to speak about Morrow's involvement in the township while a slide show commemorating Morrow's life played in the background.

“We were both very interested in trails,” said Darryl Brandon, who's involved with the local nonprofit Trail Adams Area. “What was very engaging about Clay was his passion.”

Noting the way to keep memories alive is by telling stories, Brandon and other residents said they used to go hiking and cycling with Morrow.

Morrow took an active interest in developing the township's outdoor recreational venues, according to several speakers.

“He was someone who was very passionate about recreation,” said David Goodworth, chairman of the township's parks and recreation board. “He was very visionary.”

Morrow was a dignified and compassionate representative of the township, according to Goodworth.

Tina Wilson, a resident, said she worked with Morrow through the community group Saving Rural Adams.

She said she admired his work ethic and dedication.

“He was very committed,” Wilson said.

“I was honored to be Clay's friend,” Brandon said.

Gary Peaco, township manager, said he was one of Morrow's neighbors. Peaco said while he worked closely with Morrow, he didn't take the opportunity to know Morrow as well as he wanted to.

“Reach out to your neighbors,” Peaco said. “Reach out to your friends.”

“This isn't easy,” Ford said. “He cannot be replaced.”

Morrow's seat will remain open until the board finds someone to fill it.