A story of Larry and Jann Bennett as shared by Rob and Jody (Bennett) Reichel
Rob and Jody Reichel first learned about Jekyll Island Foundation through JIF Executive Director Dion Davis, a close friend of Jody’s parents—Larry and Jann Bennett. Longtime residents of Hilton Head Island, Rob and Jody have four children and four (soon to be five) grandchildren. Recently, Jody told their story to Dion.
Family vacations on Jekyll
Island
“My father grew up vacationing on Jekyll Island,
and therefore it became our favorite place to go! We would come from Jesup
annually to attend Easter egg hunts, and at various times throughout the year
for family vacations—to ride bikes, play putt-putt, and enjoy the
beaches.”
In fact, in the 60s my parents had architectural plans drawn up to build a house on Jekyll. My daddy always regretted not building that house.
Jekyll Island has been a part of my life since I was a little girl. Our family loves the Island, with its wide bike paths, great beaches, historic Jekyll Club Resort, putt-putt golf, tennis, golf courses, and dining. Our oldest son was married at the Jekyll Club Hotel.
Tribute gift and bench dedication
We rode bikes so often as kids and as adults in the historic district and always wanted a place in my parents’ memory to stop and reflect. When my parents were still alive, they loved the idea of a bench in their honor.
After Mom passed away a few years ago and Daddy this past February, my husband donated the bench as a Mother’s Day gift, just in time to celebrate Daddy’s birthday on July 2nd—his 92nd—and my 63rd birthday on July 4th. We’ve spent our whole lives celebrating birthdays together.
My father’s favorite scripture, which he
quoted every morning, was ‘This is the day the Lord has made. Let us rejoice
and be glad in it’ (Psalm 118:24). That’s what we put on the plaque so our
family would never forget to rejoice and be glad in every day the Lord gives.”
The work of JIF
Rob and Jody believe the work of the
Foundation is significant because of the long-term investment for the
betterment of Jekyll Island.
When asked what natural area or historic spot on
the island is most attractive to them, they shared, “The refurbishment of
the historic cottages. It keeps alive a bygone era for generations to
come.”
