Former Belhaven Mayor Dr. Charles Boyette passed away on Sunday night.

Boyette served as mayor for many years before being unseated by current Mayor Adam O’Neal. He was also a longtime physician, receiving his degree from the UNC School of Medicine, and opening a practice in 1964 at the corner of Water and Haslin streets. He was the recipient of the Harris Memorial Award, given by the Carolinas Center of Medical Excellence, in 2002.

Before opening his practice in Belhaven, Boyette also served as a flight surgeon for the U.S. Navy and Marine Corps. He was a member of many organizations during his medical tenure, including: American Academy of Family Physicians, N.C. Medical Directors Association, N.C. Academy of Family Physicians, N.C. Medical Society and American Medical Association.

Most recently, Boyette was elected to a spot on the Board of Alderman, a position he began in December 2015. He became a strong supporter of the fight to reopen Belhaven’s hospital and spoke often of the town’s need for emergency room care.

Boyette was the former vice chair of the Beaufort County Democratic Party, and the chair of the Belhaven Democratic Precinct.

There is no word on funeral arrangements at this time.