“A sincere man who truly loves people.” This is how Dub McGinnes describes my next guest on Faith, Family, and Festival.
Ray “Rolly” Rollyson’s family line is like a white oak tree. Their roots run strong and deep, and his heritage is firmly anchored in Plant City. Not only are generations of Rolly’s family grounded in Plant City, but their faith in Jesus Christ is secure as well.
I could have spent hours listening to Mr. Rolly share stories of his childhood in a small town, college days playing baseball and courting his future bride, successful moments as a businessman, and all his proud moments as a dad and grandad. There is so much more behind this humble and charismatic man than our twenty-two-minute interview conveys. We spoke off camera of personal moments and family ties. This blessed man blessed me.
From girly shows to big name entertainers. From a three-day event to an eleven-day affair. Enjoy watching Mr. Rolly as he informs you about how the festival used to be, and a glimpse of what the future may hold.
Mr. Rollyson’s eldest son and daughter-in-law describe him as humble, servant, selfless, wise, and faithful. I concur.
Rolly’s favorite bible verses that he lives by are:
For God so loved the world that He gave his one and only Son, that whoever believes in Him shall not perish but have eternal life. John 3:16
Trust in the Lord with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding; in all your ways submit to Him, and He will make your paths straight. Proverbs 3:5-6
Train up a child in the way he should go: and when he is old, he will not depart from it. Proverbs 22:6
These are solid verses we can all use to anchor ourselves in our walk with Christ.
“We don’t pray for success. We pray for good weather and a safe fair.” says Mr. Rollyson. God has definitely answered the festival’s prayers for years, and this year has been an exceptionally blessed year regarding this request. When this interview is posted, we still have four days left of the 2023 Florida Strawberry Festival. Come and enjoy our faith-filled and family-based event.
Blessings to you and yours,
Stephanie
