The Selma Exchange Club honored Selma-native Nancy Reynolds Bennett as the 49th recipient of the Book of Golden Deeds award on Wednesday at Windham Hall.

At a young age, Bennett’s father and grandfather advised her to “follow the cross,” which she has made her goal ever since.

She served her church as a Sunday school teacher, a vacation bible school worker and served two terms on the Vestry.

In 1975, she sought a job that offered more flexibility so she could devote more time to her daughters. To achieve this, she formed her own company, Property Services of West Alabama LLC. Since then she has had a 40-year career in real estate.

After several years of conducting estate sales, in 1997 Bennett, along with Glenn Foster, formed FaB, LLC. And in 2011, despite Foster retiring, Bennett still continued to work.

Many probate courts, attorneys, banks and private individuals have sought out her real estate sale services and have given her great reviews.

Since 1991, Bennett has worked with the American Red Cross and managed shelters during hurricanes Opal, Ivan and Katrina. In 2005, The Red Cross recognized her efforts with the Volunteer of the Year award.

Bennett held many non-paying positions, which included 15 years on the Selma City School Board, officer and board member of the Selma Architectural Review Board, the Selma-Dallas County Historic Preservation Society, Christian Outreach Alliance Food Pantry, Selma Board of Realtors and Olde Towne Association.

According to Sheryl Smedley, president of the Selma Exchange Club, Bennett selflessly strived to dedicate her time and abilities and never sought credit for herself.

Smedley congratulated Bennett on her accolade and feels she deserved the honor bestowed upon her because of her contributions to the community.

“She cares deeply about her community, just like others here, and I’m just honored to be able to make the presentation to her today,” Smedley said.

Many guest attended the awards ceremony, including past recipients.

Being honored, Bennett said she felt happy, overwhelmed and quite humble.

“It means a lot. I am very thankful for my community and the opportunity to live in Selma-Dallas County, Alabama,” Bennett said.