If you have been to an event, parks and recreation program or festival in Kannapolis you have probably seen Becky Tolle at work. She was the first ever program coordinator in the department and will now retire as the assistant parks and recreation director.
Becky has served for over 30 years as a parks and recreation professional in the state of North Carolina, first for the Town of Huntersville and then for the City of Kannapolis. During her 23-year tenure in Kannapolis she began programs and events that have become cherished memory makers in Kannapolis.
Becky started the Summer Movie Series, Thursdays on Main music series, and the Stories Under the Stars Children’s Series. She was one of the organizers of “Kannapolis Christmas”, which eventually became the popular Celebration of Lights that happens every holiday season. This event draws over 100,000 annually and for many families it is an annual holiday tradition. She was also the leader of Jiggy with the Piggy Festival, an annual barbeque event, that drew thousands of visitors from around the U.S. for a decade to Kannapolis.
Becky aided the department in securing its national CAPRA Accreditation in 2016 and spearheaded the most recent reaccreditation in 2026.
Most recently, Becky used her parks and recreation experience when the City’s Revitalization Project led to the transfer of both the historic Gem and Swanee Theatres to city ownership. Both are now bustling tourism anchors in the revitalized downtown.
Originally from Galesburg, Illinois, she got her start in parks and recreation by working as a concession operator, lifeguard, and facility attendant while in high school.
“Becky always has a smile on her face. Her personality, care and concern for residents and their health have led her to make hundreds of community connections to advance recreation programming for Kannapolis residents of all ages. She will be greatly missed,” said Gary Mills, Kannapolis Director of Parks and Recreation.
In her retirement she is looking forward to spending time with her family, Patrick; children, Jason Tolle & Aleks Tallent, and three rambunctious grandsons, Declan, Cannon, and Oaklin Tallent.