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Friends, former students and community members will gather on May 17 to celebrate the life and legacy of Roberta “Bobbie” Gamble, a beloved educator and arts advocate who left an indelible mark on Greenville’s cultural landscape.

“It is indeed our honor to pay tribute to a true visionary,” said Nancy Idland, director of the Greenville Area Arts Council. “Mrs. Gamble was the founder of the Greenville Area Arts Council over 40 years ago. She was the individual who spearheaded the purchase and renovation of the Ritz Theatre. Lovingly known as Miss Bobbie, she touched hundreds of lives throughout her teaching career.”

The evening will begin with a reception and silent auction at 5:30 p.m. inside the historic Ritz Theatre, with a commemorative program to follow at 7 p.m. The event is open to the public, and organizers encourage the community to attend and celebrate Gamble’s contributions.

Mary Ann Hamilton, a close friend and longtime member of the Arts Council, said Gamble’s influence reached far beyond the stage. 

“Ms. Bobbi was like a second mother to me, Hamilton said. “When I first moved here, I didn’t know one soul. She got me right into the Arts Council. She was doing these plays (at the high school) and you would’ve thought you’d gone to Broadway; they were so good. “It’s amazing what those kids accomplished with someone to believe in them and put in the time and effort.”

In true Gamble fashion, guests can expect tea party-themed refreshments — complete with her favorite shortbread cookies — at the reception. 

“Her parents were from Scotland and she always loved her grandmother’s shortbread cookies, so we’re going to have those made,” Hamilton said. 

Organizers say every detail of the event has been designed to reflect the charm, elegance and heart Miss Bobbie brought to everything she touched.

For more information, contact the Greenville Area Arts Council.