Leaving a Legacy

As mentioned in our press release, The Chamber Awards 2024 was an evening spent celebrating our community. The night was full of smiles, laughter, sweet stories, memories and even a few tears were shed.

We not only celebrated those who received the recognition, but we celebrated every business, organization and individual who was nominated for each award. With over 200 in attendance, what was so clearly evidenced is we have so much to be proud of and grateful for in our exceptional community of Toccoa-Stephens County.

We wrapped up the awards recognition spotlighting two very significant individuals who have left their mark on our community:

The Legacy Award is given to a one who as they step into the next chapter of life, is leaving a legacy. The Legacy Award was presented to Leon Osborne.

Leon founded Osborne Wood Products, Inc. in 1979, alongside his wife, Janice. What began in Leon’s garage has since grown into a leading international supplier of decorative wood components for builders, kitchen and bath designers, cabinet makers, furniture manufacturers, and hobbyists. During his leadership, Leon successfully navigated the near-total loss of the business in 1994 when a fire consumed 95% of the facility. Seizing new opportunities, he transitioned the company from furniture manufacturing to component manufacturing. Initially relying on catalog marketing, Leon foresaw the rise of digital commerce and pioneered the development of the company’s e-commerce site in 1998, establishing an early foothold in the online marketplace. By forging global partnerships, he expanded the product offerings, ensuring Osborne Wood Products could meet growing market demands.

Over his 45 years at the helm, Leon cast a vision of quality, courtesy, and excellence, principles that became synonymous with Osborne Wood Products. Leon’s influence extends beyond the company’s business success. He has mentored employees who have gone on to flourish in various industries. Those close to Leon recognize his Christian faith as a driving force behind his ethical business practices and his relationships with customers, employees, and suppliers. His commitment to the community is evident in his support of local organizations such as CASA, Special Olympics, Stephens County Hospital, and Mountain Education Charter School.

Though Leon retired in July of this year, he continues to serve as Chairman of the Board, supporting Osborne Wood Products, Inc.

The 2024 Lifetime Achievement Award was introduced by Chamber Board member and Stephens County Hospital CEO, Van Loskoski and presented to Mr. Mark Wilkinson for a lifetime of successful achievement.

Loskoski shared how the last few years spent turning things around and successfully righting the ship of Stephens County Hospital he has relied on a strong support group. He shared, “every step of this journey has been side by side with Mark Wilkinson. I can’t think of a more deserving man to be chosen for this award,” Loskoski said.

Mark Wilkinson was born here in Stephens County, growing up on his grandparents’ farm where the sawmill (MWL Lumber) is now located. Mark graduated from Stephens County High School and went on to obtain an undergraduate degree in Animal Science from the University of Georgia.

Mark’s first job was at Stephens County Hospital working in the Maintenance Department. He went on to open his own business, MS Hogs and eventually Mark Wilkinson Lumber, which he owns with his wife of 48 years, Kathi.

Together they have 3 children and nine grandchildren. “Mark’s family is what brings him the most joy in life, and he’s not shy about telling you so. That’s the kind of man Mark is, a devout family man, who believes in the moral value of a hard day’s work. The best version of a man is when he is serving God and serving others. This is reflected in Mark’s many roles as a civil servant,” Loskoski adds.

Mark serves as an active member of Tates Creek Baptist Church, as Minister Music, a Deacon, and on various boards and committees. He served 23 years on the Stephens County Hospital Authority. He served for many years on the Georgia Farm Bureau and was the President of Stephens County Farm Bureau for 6 years. Mark served nine years on the Stephens County Zoning Commission, 38 years as a member of the Masonic Lodge Member, 34 years as a Shriner, 12 years as a Member of the Gideon’s International, and 24 years as an active Member of the Toccoa-Stephens County Chamber of Commerce and served a 3-year term on the Chamber Board of Directors.

Loskoski shared, “Mark has a servant’s heart. He loves his family, His Lord and Savior, and this community, beyond measure. He’s been a wonderful boss, mentor, and friend. He’s been a pillar of support when needed. He cares fiercely about the people in his life.” Loskoski went on to say he was “so very honored to offer this award to Mark Wilkinson, just as a small, completely inadequate and disproportionate token of appreciation for the service he has given to this community. A lifetime of successful achievement.”

As we reflect each year at The Chamber Awards on so many individuals who have made a lasting difference in our community, we are reminded not only is our heritage rich with leadership so is our future. Toccoa-Stephens County is a great place to do business and a greater place to do life!