The prestigious Ann Dupee Gem of the Hills Award was presented to Lieutenant Kelly Stone of the Lake County Sheriff’s Office during the South Lake Chamber of Commerce breakfast. The award, which honors individuals whose dedication and service embody the spirit of the South Lake community, was announced by Rocky DeStefano, Owner of Chick-fil-A Clermont, and Justin Nichols, Executive Marketing Director for Chick-fil-A Clermont.
Lt. Stone, a longstanding figure in South Lake, has served with the Lake County Sheriff’s Office since 1998. Her commitment to the community extends far beyond her daily duties in law enforcement. From coordinating special events and community partnerships to fostering strong public relations, she has become an integral part of the region’s heartbeat.
Her service-minded spirit has touched many areas of community life. She spent three years coaching the South Lake High School girls’ softball team and has taught law enforcement courses at Lake Technical College. As a certified Critical Incident Stress Management (CISM) team member, she helps support fellow officers through difficult times. In 2024, she received the Lifetime Achievement Award from Mothers Against Drunk Driving (MADD), a testament to her continued efforts to make a positive difference.
Lt. Stone is also a passionate advocate for youth programs. She has taken part in the Sheriff’s Office’s annual “Project Kid Connect,” which provides free backpacks and school supplies to local students. This summer, she is launching a new initiative through the Kiwanis Club of Clermont to provide children at Mascotte Charter School with jars of peanut butter and jelly each week—helping families cope with rising grocery costs. “We are still working on including a loaf of bread as well,” said Stone. “If all goes well, we will look at expanding the program to other schools next year.”
Lt. Stone’s strong community ties, both personal and professional, and her unwavering compassion for others truly exemplify the spirit of the Ann Dupee Gem of the Hills Award. Her warm smile, approachable demeanor, and enduring commitment to public service have made a lasting impact on South Lake.
