JACKSONVILLE, Fla. – March, 5th 2025 – The Winston Family YMCA, as part of the First Coast YMCA, is proud to announce that former Miller Electric Company CEO Buck Autrey and his family will be presented as the 2025 recipients of the W.W. ‘Bill’ Gay Community Impact Award. The award will be presented at the 4th annual Giving Tree Gala at the Jessie Ball duPont Center in Jacksonville on Saturday, April 5th, 2025.
The Giving Tree Gala is an annual event where the Winston Family YMCA and the YMCA of Florida’s First Coast thank supporters who empower the YMCA to provide critical programs and services to the community. The W.W. ‘Bill’ Gay Community Impact Award is named in honor of William Wiley ‘Bill’ Gay, whose efforts have significantly improved the well-being of Northeast Florida and inspired others to do the same.
“It is an immense honor for my grandfather to be recognized by the YMCA, an organization that shares our deep commitment to community and understands the profound impact we can achieve when we work together to make the world a better place,” said Henry Brown, CEO, Miller Electric Company. “As a family business, the culture of giving is a legacy passed down through generations, and it is thanks to Buck Autrey that our employees wholeheartedly embrace these philanthropic values. My grandfather has always championed the belief that a strong commitment to the community is the cornerstone of Miller Electric Company’s success. By leading through example, he underscores our responsibility as corporate citizens to invest in the long-term health and sustainability of our industry, community, and world.”
Buck Autrey, a name synonymous with excellence and leadership in the electrical industry, is the embodiment of what it means to be a community leader. Born in Tallahassee, Buck’s journey began as an apprentice at Miller Electric Company almost 75 years ago. Miller Electric’s remarkable ascent under his leadership is a testament to his dedication and determination. Buck Autrey’s belief in corporate responsibility and community engagement has been integral to Miller Electric’s success. He led by example, demonstrating that investing in the long-term health and sustainability of the industry and the community is not just a choice but an obligation. His commitment to giving back to the community set the standard for future generations and has become a cornerstone of Miller Electric’s culture where every employee knows that commitment to the community is the foundation of the company’s success.
“This award celebrates individuals and businesses who exemplify the values that align with the First Coast YMCA, Bill Gay, and a commitment to positive change,” said Tim Burrows, VP of Healthy Living and Operations at the YMCA of Florida’s First Coast. “The Autrey Family and Miller Electric embody these values and serve as powerful examples of what can be achieved when community leaders prioritize the greater good.”
Also being honored at the Giving Tree Gala will be Joyce Delifus, who has served as a champion within the community for children and adults learning how to swim. She established the Shawn D. Delifus Foundation in memory of her son Shawn, who was an accomplished swim coach who passed away in 2016. The Foundation has taught countless people how to swim, including at the Winston Family YMCA and Johnson Family YMCA in Jacksonville, where Joyce has been a longtime member.
Action News Jax meteorologist Garrett Bedenbaugh will be serving as Master of Ceremonies for the gala. For more information about how you can support this year’s event, please visit givingtreegala.org.
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About the First Coast Y
For more than 115 years, the YMCA of Florida’s First Coast has been providing men, women and children of all ages, and from all walks of life, opportunities to build stronger bonds, live healthy and become more engaged with their communities. Learn more: fcymca.org.
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