Local Shrine Parade Unit builds and dedicates kart in memory of late local mayor
FORT MILL, S.C. – Next time you see a Shriners Club parade unit, keep an eye out for a special kart with a special meaning. Marty Taylor is the captain of the Oasis KartAttacks Shrine Parade Unit based in Charlotte. He recently presented a custom designed kart to the family of a former local mayor.
Charlie Powers was the mayor of Fort Mill for 25 years. He died in 2021. His son, Billy Powers, approached Taylor this past September and offered a donation to the parade unit to build a tribute kart in Charlie and his late wife Peggy’s honor. She died in 2024.
In Billy’s email to Taylor, he wrote, in part, “Our donation to build the Go Kart is proudly donated to the Shriners Club in memory of Charles and Peggy Powers. Lifelong residents of Fort Mill, South Carolina, Charles and Peggy devoted their lives to family and community. Charles served as mayor for 25 years, always working with a servantβs heart to make Fort Mill a better place for generations to come. Together, they raised a loving family and shared a passion for cheering on the South Carolina Gamecocks, the Atlanta Braves, and spending peaceful days by the ocean.”
The kart was completed earlier this month. Taylor presented the kart to Billy and his wife Kathy. The kart features the number 65, which represents the number of years Charles and Peggy were married. It is painted teal blue to remind people of the ocean.
Current Fort Mill Mayor Guynn Savage and town council members were on hand at the dedication and presentation of the kart on May 3rd in Fort Mill.
