Elon's town manager of 23 years, Mike Dula, died Sunday June 30.
He was 63-years-old and battled cancer for several months, according to the Burlington Times-News.
Dula supervised projects including Elon University's construction and the Town of Elon housing expansion. He also served as President of the N.C. City/County Management Association.
Dula also worked consistently with other members of the Board of Aldermen at the Zoning and Planning Department on S. Williamson Ave.
Elon Mayor Jerry Tolley said Dula was highly respected in the community.
"As Mayor, I found him to be most knowledgeable concerning the running of the town," Tolley said. "He had a great way with people."
Dula was a North Carolina native. He grew up in Rutherford County and graduated from Appalachian State University with a master's degree in geography and planning, according to the Times-News.
He is survived by his wife of 42 years, Brenda Hollingsworth Dula.
His funeral will be held at the Elon Community Church Wednesday July 3 at 3 p.m.