Billy J. CENTER

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.

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...

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

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

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...

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