Spotlight on Bobbie Furrey

Each month we spotlight a volunteer, staff member, docent, donor, or sponsor of the Virginia Robinson Gardens (VRG) -- those that have made an impact on the organization. We want to let you know about these wonderful people and corporations that give so much to the Virginia Robinson Gardens and to the community, and what they do that is so impactful.

This month, we spotlight Bobbie Furrey, a longtime, dedicated member and board member of the Friends of Robinson Gardens.

We asked her these four questions:

1. How did you first learn about VRG, and what inspired you to become a Friend?

I heard about and was introduced to VRG by my late friend Audrey Jessup. She had been an active member for many years. We belonged to a couple of other charities and were paired to be benefit chairs and became good friends. Audrey knew I appreciated classic architecture and gardens as my husband and I had restored several houses, including our current home designed by architect Raymond Kieffer and built-in 1926. She was right; when she brought me to VRG, I fell in love with the architecture, history, and gardens. It represents a different era of quiet luxury & elegance.

2. What is your role - how do you contribute to VRG?

Currently, I am on the Docent Outreach Committee. In past years, I have served on the Restoration Committee, co-chaired the Children’s Holiday Party, and co-chaired the Patron Gala.

3. Can you share a favorite VRG memory with us?

There have been so many. The most recent was the last Fellows trip to Scottsdale. It literally was the last hurrah for all of us as the Covid lockdown happened as the trip ended. Scottsdale has such a mellow/laidback vibe, and we all had so much fun touring private homes designed by Frank Lloyd Wright, and we visited and had dinner at Taliesen West, his school for architects.

4. Please add any other additional information you would like to share.

All the ladies that belong to VRG are so amazing, a special group dedicated to preserving a bygone era in history. Programs offered by the Friends bring the history to life and make it easy to apply to our own lives in current times.