By Kay Schlaefli AIFD, CFD, AMF
When I was assigned the task of writing about SCAIFD history, I knew immediately that I would write about Bill Plummer AIFD. The South Central Chapter is home to many talented mentors- Frankie Shelton AIFD, Buddy Benz AIFD, the one and only amazing Marie Ackerman AIFD, and one of my favorite designers, Ken Senter AIFD. But I knew it had to be Bill. Bill has been not only my friend but a mentor- not just for me, but for all of Arkansas. For a long time, Arkansas only had 3-4 AIFD members. With Bill’s motivation and his gentle but persistent push, our AIFD membership has grown. Bill’s impact on our industry, our state, and our hearts are immeasurable. That year at the Symposium, Bill was honored as a charter member of AIFD. And as always he was the heart and soul of the event. He was truly the welcome wagon master, greeting everyone as they arrived at the hotel with signature warmth and enthusiasm. He caught up with old friends, made new ones, and fully embraced the celebration of floral artistry that he had worked so hard to help shape.
Robert Robertson AIFD and I had the absolute joy of having Bill Plummer ride along with us as we journeyed to Denver, Colorado. Mr. Bill refused to fly, so driving was the only option! That road trip was filled with laughter, stories, and unforgettable memories. For Robert and me, the trip held even more significance since we were there to test for AIFD. It was a nerve-wracking but exciting experience, with Bill’s encouragement and unwavering support we both passed! Along with fellow Arkansans, Tricia Upshaw AIFD, Alison Hobson AIFD, and our Arkansas-adopted John Lechliter AIFD.
Bill once again joined on our journey – this time to Anaheim, where we would officially be pinned as AIFD accredited. But this trip was different, this time, we actually convinced Bill to fly. He had been there every step of the way, guiding, encouraging, and pushing us toward our goals, it only felt right he was there to witness this milestone moment.
Bill wasn’t just a mentor or a leader- he was a pillar of our floral community, his hometown community, and his church community, but most of all, he was a dear friend to me and many more including his beloved Arkansas Florist Association. Please continue to read to hear more of Bill and his legacy.
William “Bill” Plummer (September 24, 1929 – March 18, 2021) was a distinguished figure in the floral industry, particularly within Arkansas and the South Central Chapter of the American Institute of Floral Designers (AIFD). Born in Plumerville, Arkansas, Bill graduated from Plumerville High School in 1947 and earned a bachelor’s degree from the University of Central Arkansas in 1951. He initially pursued a career in education, teaching English in Corning, Arkansas, before serving in the United States Navy from 1952 to 1956. During his military service, he was honored with the National Defense Service Medal and the Good Conduct Medal.
After his naval service, Bill briefly taught in California. A return trip to Arkansas for his grandfather’s funeral led to a pivotal career change. Mrs. Wiggs, for whom he had previously delivered flowers, offered him her flower shop upon her retirement. After thoughtful consideration, Bill borrowed $2,000 and dedicated the next 40 years to his floral business.
Bill’s commitment to public service mirrored his father’s, as he served as mayor of Plumerville from 1998 to 2006. His tenure was marked by significant community improvements, including establishing a senior center, developing a walking trail near the police station, renovating the high school gym, and acquiring facilities for the city municipal building. His involvement with the University of Central Arkansas (UCA) was notable; he served on the alumni board for 15 years and, in 2007, received the inaugural Alumni Service Award. He also endowed the William C. Plummer Scholarship for students in the College of Fine Arts and Communication and served on the UCA Foundation Board until his passing.
Within the floral industry, Bill’s influence was profound. He served as president of the Arkansas Florists Association in 1964 and later as executive director, secretary, and treasurer, holding these positions until December 2020. As a charter member of AIFD, he was the only founding member outside California. Bill played a crucial role in organizing state conventions and Southern Symposia in Fayetteville and Hot Springs, Arkansas. His talents extended to national events, including decorating floats for the Tournament of Roses Parade and serving on the floral team for President Bill Clinton’s inauguration.
Bill’s legacy is characterized by his dedication to mentorship, community enhancement, and the elevation of floral design as an art form. His leadership and passion continue to inspire those who had the privilege of knowing him.
His unwavering commitment to the floral industry and the Arkansas community has left an indelible mark. As a charter member of the American Institute of Floral Designers (AIFD), he not only elevated the art of floral design but also mentored many, guiding them toward their goals within the organization. Arkansas indeed holds his legacy dear, cherishing the profound contributions he made, his leadership and passion continue to inspire those who had the privilege of knowing him.
