Gray’s Furniture employee Leroy “Mick” Williams has been named the December Rising Star.

Selma and Dallas County Executive Director Sheryl Smedley surprised Williams with the honor, which recognizes someone each month who displays outstanding customer service.

The unexpected presentation left a big smile on Williams’ face.

“It’s wonderful,” said Williams, who is mainly responsible for delivering furniture for Gray’s. “I’m thankful.”

Gray’s Furniture owner Margaret Cogle bragged on her award-winning employee’s dedication to go above and beyond to help others. During his seven years with Gray’s, Williams has helped people move, delivered truck loads of Operation Christmas Child shoeboxes to the Selma Baptist Association and has conducted other acts of community service.

He even gave Gray’s Furniture a new coffee maker Tuesday, before he was surprised with the Rising Star Award.

“He really does do his job above and beyond with a very joyous spirit,” Cogle said.

It was Williams’ dedication to giving back to the community that made him stand out from other nominees, Smedley said.

For the Rising Star Award recipient, helping others comes naturally.

“It’s good helping everybody,” he said. “It’s something I normally do.”