RALEIGH — Gov. Roy Cooper has written a message paying tribute to Bill Stanback, the Salisbury businessman, civic leader and philanthropist who died Feb. 7.

Here are the words sent by Cooper:

“North Carolina has lost a man who gave so much to his community and state.

“He was a quiet and gentle man who embodied the notion of service above self. He served as mayor of Salisbury from 1974 to 1975, helping to ensure that local schools and local government were integrated as smoothly as possible.

“An Eagle Scout, World War II hero and business icon, Bill spent his entire life representing those who otherwise did not have a voice. He was a vocal champion for gay rights, racial integration, preservation of historic Native American sites and humane treatment of animals.

“Bill served on many boards and commissions and contributed many millions of dollars to the cause he valued. He believed in decency, kindness and compassion above all else. He was a regular attendee of First United Methodist Church in Salisbury. He loved sailing the waters of North Carolina’s lakes and rivers, and the oceans of the world. He was a birder, a land conservationist and a philanthropist.

“Above all else, though, he was a true friend, husband, father, cousin and colleague. We have lost a North Carolina treasure. We are all indebted to him for his leadership and grace.”