Prominent nurseryman Leslie Hobbs dies at 79
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Hobbs was the founder of Warren County Nursery, Inc., starting the business in 1950 following his service in the U.S. Navy during World War II.
His achievements in the nursery industry were recognized in 1985 when he received the Tennessee Wholesale Nurseryman of the Year Award. He was president of the Tennessee Nursery Association in 1973 and was a lifetime member of the Middle Tennessee and Tennessee Nursery Associations and Southern Nurseryman’s Association.
Mr. Hobbs was conferred the Boss of the Year by the McMinnville Jaycees in 1978. He was a lifetime member of the VFW and a member of Hebron Church of Christ.
Along with his extensive contributions in the nursery business, Mr. Hobbs was also a longtime member of the county commission, representing the Irving College area from 1966-1986.
In addition to his achievements in both the civic arena and in the nursery industry, friends praised his giving nature.
“He was a great guy and a real people person,” said his longtime friend and fellow nurseryman Ed Porter. “He had a big heart and believed in helping others. He was a real role model.”
Services for Mr. Hobbs will be held at 2 p.m. Monday at Hebron Church of Christ.