In loving memory of those who cared to make a difference

Virginia Kerr

6-18-1926-11-16-2022

Born in Pennsylvania Virginia moved to Florida many years ago and became involved with the St. Lucie County Fair as a Director, and as chairman of “Woman’s World.” A statement from the Fair: “Virginia was instrumental in building Woman's World into what we all are so proud of today. She along with her quilting and sewing ladies worked diligently for many hours preparing and displaying their wares. Virginia was a ‘True Fair Friend’ and will be greatly missed.” The first Virginia’s Ribbon was awarded this year. (see page 68) Virginia enjoyed attending Florida Federation of Fairs conventions and treasured the many friends she made through the Fair industry. She is survived by four children: Jeanne Keaton, Marianne Gruzlewski, Bill Matson, and Tommy Patton. Virginia is also survived by 8 grandchildren and 13 great-grandchildren.

TIMOTHY H. CRIBBS

8-31-1961-12-14-2022

Mr. Cribbs was a 39 year Agriculture teacher and Durant High School Department Head, Florida Strawberry Festival Livestock Judging Chair, member of Florida FFA

Board of Directors, and in their Hall of Fame, member of the University of Florida Alpha Gamma Rho Fraternity. He is survived by his wife of 37 years, Suzanne Walden Cribbs; children, Joshua Timothy Cribbs (Abbie) of White, South Dakota and Caitlin Rebekah Walker (Barrett) of Plant City, and four grandchildren. His mother Geneva Cribbs, brothers, Danny Cribbs (Debbie), and Phillip Cribbs (Lori); mother-in-law, Linda Walden; brother-in-law, Jay R. Walden; sister-in-law, Lauren W. Ebert (Terry); and many nieces, nephews, family and friends.

Charles Howard Williams

8-16-1931-1-27-2023

Born in Graceville, Florida, he was a member of the U.S. Air Force and a graduate of the University of Florida. He retired from the Manatee County School Board after 31 years, where he worked as an Agriculture teacher at Southeast High and Sugg Middle schools. He was involved in the FFA programs in Manatee County for many years and served on the Manatee County Fair Board for 23 years. He was named Director Emeritus after he retired in 1991. Charles was a member of Woodland Community Church where he served as Head Usher, Assistant Treasurer, and on many committees. He is survived by his wife, Barbara of 62 years., his sons; Freddie Dale Williams of Archer, FL, Eddie Dennis Williams of Bradenton, Charles Mark Williams (Beverly) of Lakeland, FL, Dr. Timothy Brandon Williams (Lohri) of Plant City, FL; and daughter, Rebecca Hodge (Shawn) of Bradenton. He is also survived by 8 grandchildren and 2 great-grandchildren.

Bruce Bemis

7-29-1943-1-29-2023

Born in Massachusetts Bruce had a long history with the outdoor amusement business. Over the past 20 years, Bruce and Janice Gifford owned a business that provided and distributed Fair posters and coupons. He also ran a Racing Pigs attraction and worked behind the scenes of the Magic of Lance Gifford Show. With the help of his family and friends, Bruce was transported by ambulance from a Massachusetts hospital to Tampa last year. He is survived by his companion of over 50 years Janice Gifford. His children: Lance Gifford, Dawn Gifford, Tina Smith, Dennis Bemis and Donna Brock.

Please help us honor and recognize our friends in the Fair industry who pass away during the year by sending their names and Fair affiliation to the Federation for inclusion in the Resolutions passed at each year’s convention and also be included in the next issue of the newsletter. Please include the person’s affiliation with your Fair or company and years of service. Send to: floridafairs@gmail.com and Resolutions Chairman Suzanne Holcomb

Suzanne@hillsboroughcountyfair.com

Spring 2023/74