Bobby Williams
Bobby Williams, our caretaker and site administrator for the past seven years retired in early February. Bobby came to Hope in 2012 having worked as a Production Manager of United Piece Dye Works in Edenton and as manager of the wastewater treatment plantation for the City of Edenton.
We quickly learned that Bobby could do almost do anything. In addition to his routine caretaker duties, Bobby could go from repairing our tractor and mowers, to installing a security system in the mansion and Heritage Center to working on our computers. He saved us many thousands of dollars.
Moreover, we learned that Bobby had very good management skills and in 2014 was given the position of Site Administrator. As Site Administrator, he was responsible for all of the office duties – paying bills, tracking income from gifts, memberships etc., and managing our memberships. He was involved in hiring and training new docents, scheduling the docents, and managing our yard workers. Additionally, he was always willing to give tours to visitors who showed up when we were otherwise closed.
Bobby was always looking at ways to save money and help Hope make money. He was the driving force behind our first yard sale and flea market, which is now an annual event. And, he and a former docent, Rhonda Forsythe, began our harvest festival which has been very successful. He was very good at finding items online that ranged from office equipment to chairs at much reduced prices.
Perhaps most importantly, Bobby had excellent people skills and worked well with the staff and public. He was the face of Hope when someone called or came by to schedule weddings and other events and worked with them to ensure we were prepared for the event.
Bobby’s wife Joyce was by his side every time needed and assisted in many events.
We all wish Bobby and Joyce well.
