Architectural drawings for renovations to New Point Comfort Lighthouse were made available to the Mathews County Department of Planning and Zoning just weeks before the man who was the driving force behind the project passed away.

Earl Soles was in hospice two weeks ago when fellow members of the New Point Lighthouse Preservation Task Force—Dennis Baker, Dan Webster and Josie Thorpe—visited him, along with Mathews County Planning and Zoning Director Thomas Jenkins. The group had the drawings with them, said Jenkins, and, although increasingly weak, Soles was able to discuss the documents with knowledge and awareness.

“I was so motivated by his candor and continued interest in the project,” Jenkins said.

The group also presented Soles with a proclamation by the Mathews County Board of Supervisors making Aug. 7 Earl Soles Day in Mathews County. Aug. 7 is also National Lighthouse Day, and Soles was named an Honorary Lighthouse Keeper in Mathews. Soles passe...