Hobbs honored by state Legislature
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The Tennessee General Assembly has honored the memory of the late Leslie Hobbs, founder of Warren County Nursery. Hobbs started the nursery in 1950 with a $2,000 investment, two acres of land and a small building, according to the resolution, and that business is still in operation today.
Hobbs was considered by lawmakers as an exemplary public servant and professional who worked to improve the quality of life for many.
Among his many accomplishments, he enrolled in the Civilian Conservation Corps in 1941 at 17, served in U.S. Navy beginning in 1943 and served for 2-1/2 years, attended school under the GI Bill, was a county commissioner representing the Irving College area for 20 years beginning in 1966, and worked to expand utility districts in rural areas.
Hobbs was a lifetime member of the VFW Post 5064 and was named Boss of the Year by the McMinnville Jaycees in 1979, the resolution also notes.
He served as a president of the Tennessee Nurseryman’s Association and earned the distinction of Tennessee Wholesale Nurseryman of the Year in 1985, along with achieving honorary membership status is the SNA, TNA and MTNA.
Hobbs is remembered as an active member of Hebron Church of Christ and as a man who held family values in high esteem. He was married to Frances Panter Hobbs and was the father to five children, Richard, Michael, Phillip, Jeffery and Elaine. Family members still run the nursery today.
The resolution further notes Hobbs’ “impeccable character and his stalwart commitment to living the examined life with courage and conviction.”
Mrs. Hobbs, who still works at the nursery and who serves as a secretary, said her husband was especially proud of his service to his country. She said the family appreciated the gesture.
“We were really proud of it and appreciated it very much. We feel like if anyone deserved it, he did,” she added.