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Billy CENTER Obituary
He is survived by his wife of 51 years, best friend, and ultimate caregiver, Ruby Nell; as well as their children, James and Michele Center, Kim and Bill Thumel; grandchildren, Ellis, Samantha, Ryan, Haley, Bob, Kelly; and great-granddaughter, Parker. He will be greatly missed by his many friends from around the country as well as those local in Virginia Beach.
He was born on May 27, 1932, in Fort Smith Arkansas. Bill graduated from the University of Arkansas in 1953 with a Bachelors Degree in journalism and then went on to serve in The United States Army and was a veteran of the Korean War. Afterward he joined the staff of the Fort Smith Chamber of Commerce. He led the Chambers in Bartlesville, Okla.; Lafayette, La.; Denver, Colo.; and Virginia Beach, Va., and lastly at the combined Hampton Roads Chamber of Commerce.
After leaving Hampton Roads Chamber Bill became Executive Director of the Virginia Beach Neptune Festival. His planning skills and contacts helped transition the small local event into the elaborate east coast festival that it remains today. Bill also founded and served as the Executive Director of the Virginia Festival Events Association.
Bill was very active in the community. He was a member of the Rotary Club, an active member of the Virginia Beach United Methodist Church and lifetime member and served on the Board of the Virginia Aquarium. There was rarely a weekend when people weren't at Bill and Ruby's house for good food, good conversation, a card game or a peek at his beloved rose gardens. Needless to say, many fun times and memories were made at the Center household.
His life will be honored by family and friends at Virginia Beach United Methodist Church at 212 19th St., Virginia Beach, VA 23451 on Monday July 12, 2010, at 1 p.m. with a reception to follow in the church Fellowship Hall.
The family asks that in lieu of flowers, memorials may be made in his memory to St. Mary's Home for Disabled Children, 6171 Kempsville Circle, Norfolk, VA 23502. View and post condolences on our online guestbook at dailypress.com/guestbooks.
To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.
Memories and Condolences
for Billy CENTER
Donna Tate
July 17, 2024
It is now 2024. Still think of Bill, especially this time of year as the Neptune Festival prepares for it's 50th Boardwalk Weekend celebration. The sand event is well underway. Much change has occurred through the years for sand venue; event now hosts 32 talented international artists. It was my pleasure working with Bill. Can actually still hear his voice.
Fond memories remain,
My best to family.
Donna Tate
July 13, 2010
Ruby (& family),
What fond memories I have of Bill when working with him as a volunteer for the Neptune Festival (chairman for the Sand Castle Classic, as it was then known). Bill was a very sincere person and also quite the character. As I read the guestbook entries it is nice to see Bill recognized not only for his many contributions but as the wonderful, considerate, kind and devoted person he was. It was my pleasure knowing and working with Bill. Though we had lost touch over the years I frequently thought of Bill and fondly recall the year the sand castles were bulldozed by mistake. Not so funny at the moment, but like a true professional Bill came through to save the day/event, a story retold many times with humor. Ruby, I am sorry I was unable to attend the service. Please accept my sincere condolences and know that my thoughts & prayers are with you and the family. Bless all of you in the days/years ahead.
Paula Ross
July 12, 2010
Kim, I will never forget the funny conversations Mr. Center and I had. He loved to talk about his bride and their amazing friends. His eyes sparkled especially when he talked about you. He was such a kind-hearted man. My prayers go out to you and your family.
Anne Rogers
July 12, 2010
Dear Ruby:
I will always remember the kindness you and Bill showed toward me when I first arrived in the area eleven years ago to join Atlantic Anesthesia Inc. You both extended heartfelt hospitality toward me, inviting me to your home for dinner. This simple act meant so much to me at a time of transition in my own life.
As you face this sad change in your own life, know that my prayers are supporting you.
With all my love,
Anne Rogers
Joe Buchanan
July 11, 2010
Ruby, Kim and Bill and family....Bill Center was a consumate professional and leader. Bill understood and demonstrated the very best leadership and management skills, talking the talk and more importantly, walking the walk. His work in consolidating the several chambers and professionalizing the Neptune Festival operations, all the while serving as a true "servant - leader ", endeared him to many.
Joe Buchanan
July 11, 2010
I remember Bill from the fist time he pulled into the parking lot of the Virginia Beach Chamber of Commerce. I was one of the few remaining left to be employed there as a 20 year old receptionist. We were all antisipating his arrival. I took one sip of my coffee and found it down the front of my shirt. Now my delimia, do I stand and shake his hand, or sit. To this day I can't remember. I can only recall the warmth and kindness he showed me. He often talked about his love for Ruby and his children. He voiced his approval for the man I was dating, and I listened. After nearly 27 years of marriage, I can only say he was totaly right on the mark. I love my husband more today than when we were married. I adore this man for many reasons. He took me as I was, a woman wet behind the ears and transformed into another a place for me to gain advancement, but more than that, a neighboor and friend who looked after me as a neighboor and friend. I thank you Bill Center for so much, a friend and mentor. Love and prayers for your family, Lynne March Baptista
Bob Miller
July 10, 2010
Kim, Bill and family,
I knew Bill from the Neptune Festival. He always had a smile and quick thought no matter the occasion. I enjoyed our time together and can only believe he kept a great balance of fun and focus every where he went.
Kim you are a wonderful legacy of your Dad for all of us to admire, enjoy and respect! God bless and be very close to all of you this day and all the days to come,
Bob Miller
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