Dedication of the Robert "Bob" & Elaine Russell "Gregory Bald" Azalea Garden
Left to Right: Randy Russell, Bobby Russell, Mark Seder and Elaine Russell.
On a beautiful Saturday, June 10th, 2023 the Robert "Bob" & Elaine Russell "Gregory Bald" Azalea Garden was dedicated at the Townsend River Walk & Arboretum (TRWA). Bob passed away last year but Elaine, her two sons Randy and Bobby along with there wives were present at this wonderful tribute to Bob & Elaine. Townsend officials: Mayor Don Prater and City Manager Danny Williamson along with his wife Kathy, joined us for the dedication. Several members of the Tuckaleechee Garden Club were present including: Mary Lynn Morgan, Charlotte Miller, Theresa and Scott Schehr, Linda Morton, Kay Goodwin and Mark Seder. Snacks and Refreshments were provided by members of the Tuckaleechee Garden Club.
Mark Seder, the TRWA Co-coordinator, presided over the ceremony and formally dedicated the Garden as a living tribute to Elaine & Bob. Mayor Prater addressed Elaine and family and gave praise as to what the Townsend River Walk & Arboretum meant to the community of Townsend, Danny Williamson talked about the saga of getting the River Walk thru the state as a project grant and all the roadblocks that were put up but never stopped the momentum that had been building to start the River Walk. Mark then presented Elaine and here sons each with a Gregory Bald Azalea and to Elaine a copy of the marker that indicates the Robert "Bob" & Elaine Russell "Gregory Bald" Azalea Garden. Kathy Williamson ended the dedication with a blessing. Thanks to everyone that participated.
A big thank you to the community members from Maryville, Townsend and Blount County for turning out and honoring Bob & Elaine.
For the complete story about this garden visit: Robert "Bob" & Elaine Russell "Gregory Bald" Azalea Garden .
