Former NC Chief Justice Henry Frye and wife Shirley Frye receive key to the city of Greensboro

Justice Henry Frye and his wife Shirley Frye were given a key to the city of Greensboro Tuesday to recognize the work they've done across the state and locally.

The North Carolina Agricultural and Technical State University drumline kicked off a celebration of the couple's legacy. Around 100 people gathered at Center City Park for the occasion.

The Fryes have called Greensboro home for the past 70 years. Henry served as the first Black chief justice of the North Carolina Supreme Court. Shirley led the integration of the city's two YWCAs in the 1970s.

Henry said everyone has the potential to leave a positive impact.

"I believe that everybody can do something and that you should choose to do whatever that good something is. You may get it done, but if not, you tried," he said.

Former City Councilmember Justin Outling said the Fryes were a combination of being very accomplished in their fields, while also being even better people outside of them.

"But for them, we would not have so many wonderful things that we have in our community, and so it's great to recognize them for it, express appreciation and continue to learn every single lesson we can while they're here with us," Outling said.

A statue of the Fryes was also unveiled in the park earlier this year.