Photo: State Rep. Richard White, Superintendent Ralph Hamilton, Ryan Quarles, Shawn McKenzie, and others gather near the newly installed Don McKenzie Memorial Bridge sign in Morgan County. Photo courtesy of Rep. Richard White.
The bridge crossing Caney Creek at Morgan County High School now officially bears the name of a man many residents remember for his decades of service to the community.
State Rep. Richard White announced this week that signage has been installed for the Don McKenzie Memorial Bridge, completing a designation approved earlier this year by the Kentucky General Assembly.
In a social media post, White said he recently visited the memorial site alongside Morgan County Schools Superintendent Ralph Hamilton, Ryan Quarles, and Don McKenzie’s son, Shawn McKenzie.
"While Donnie is deeply missed by many, his legacy of service and community continues to live on," White wrote. He also thanked Superintendent Hamilton for his partnership in helping make the project a reality.
According to the resolution passed by state lawmakers during the 2026 legislative session, the bridge located at Morgan County High School over Caney Creek was officially designated as the Don McKenzie Memorial Bridge. The legislation directed the Kentucky Transportation Cabinet to install signage recognizing the honor.
McKenzie was a lifelong Morgan Countian who became well known through his business and community involvement. In 1958, he founded McKenzie's Pool and Lunchroom, a local gathering place that he operated for the remainder of his life.
Beyond his business, McKenzie devoted countless hours to youth programs, volunteering with local Little League and football organizations. His commitment to Morgan County earned widespread respect, and in 1992 he and his twin brother, Ronald McKenzie, were named Morgan County's Outstanding Citizens of the Year.
The resolution noted that McKenzie passed away on April 14, 2025. He was preceded in death by his wife, Wanetta McKenzie, and is survived by his children, grandchildren, great-granddaughter, and numerous family members and friends.
Lawmakers cited McKenzie's lifelong service, generosity, and dedication to Morgan County as reasons for the bridge designation, calling him deserving of both honor and lasting public recognition.
With the installation of the new sign, travelers passing Morgan County High School will now be reminded of a man whose impact on the community extended far beyond business and athletics, leaving a legacy that continues to be remembered by generations of Morgan County residents.