Being a transplant from Atlanta and recent retiree, finding connections in your new community can be daunting. Luckily, my husband and I had been to Jekyll Island with family for more than 20 years before the opportunity came for us to move here in 2021. We had friends and other family on the island that helped in that transition. I retired from Gwinnett County Public Schools as a County Nurse and Sims was able to transfer from Atlanta to the Old Dominion Freight office in Savannah. Leaving our family and home behind was sad but we were ready for a slower life. We haven’t found that slower life yet!
One thing about Jekyll and the Golden Isles, there is always something to keep you busy and involved. I quickly was asked to be on the Friends of Historic Jekyll Island (FOHJI)board and that has been rewarding. Sims and I attend musical events locally as well as visiting many restaurants. Guests keep our schedule pretty full as well as the blessing of new friends on Jekyll.
About Pamela Harris
Q: Please tell us a little bit about your family.
Sims and I have been married 41 years. We have a son in Asheville and two daughters in Atlanta , all with their spouses. 3 precious granddaughters under 4 complete our group!
Q: Please tell us about your current, past, or future career. What do you love most about what you do?
I am a Registered Nurse having worked in multiple areas. Working for my Dad, Dr. Ralph Tillman for 11 years in his GYN practice was such a gift. I loved my last 6 years as a Gwinnett County nurse because I met the most amazing women who will always be in my life.
Q: What advice would you give to people?
Read, enjoy the quiet sometimes, find those people who enrich you, and love like it could be gone tomorrow.
Q: Where do you see yourself in 5 to 10 years?
I do hope we are still healthy and able to be at Jekyll. I pray my family are all healthy and happy.
Pamela Harris & Our Community
Q: What are a couple of your favorite restaurants in our community?
Corridor Z is serving some great food, sad we are losing the wonderful Driftwood Bistro, Tribuzio and Sunrise Grill are always good choices and we love Indigo Coastal Shanty,
Q: How long have you lived or worked in our community?
We moved officially in 2021 into the house my Dad bought years ago.
Q: Who is the most interesting person you’ve met here in our community?
The military stories from the veterans on Jekyll are astounding. Our dear friend, Dr, Bruce Hildreth has some stories!
Q: What current or former local business makes you the most nostalgic about our community?
The Jekyll Club is such a magnificent place that highlights the rich history on Jekyll. Being on the FOHJI board keeps me involved in the projects to maintain or restore our rich history.
Q: What is your favorite thing or something unique about our community?
People with so many backgrounds find their way here and make a home. It has been great meeting folks from all over and making good friends!
Q: If you could choose anyone that is alive today and not a relative; with whom would you love to have lunch? Why? And where locally would y’all meet for this lunch?
Grand Dining Room with Princess Diana! I was in college when she married and watched as her life changed so much. Of course, I would rather have dinner with my Daddy.
For Fun
Q: What is one of your favorite movies? TV shows?
MASH, Sex and the City, Scandal, So much great tv now. I can and do watch Harry Potter on repeat. They are such a strong connection to my kids.
Q: (Even for friends or family), what is something interesting that most people don’t know about you?
I may always come across as pretty out going and bold but I am a bit shy behind all that outspokenness! I never meet a stranger and do try to make people welcome whatever situation I am in.
Q: What would you rate a 10 out of 10?
Chocolate anything and my husband, in that order!
Q: Who inspires you to be better?
My husband, Sims is the finest and funniest guy around. You should meet him!
Q: Finally, what 3 words or phrases come to mind when you think of the word HOME?
“We’re still having fun and you’re still the one” song by Orleans, Family and Friends