Leland-Deer Creek Garden Club holds annual May Luncheon

By Editor | June 6, 2025 |

Gwin Cumbaa pictured with her Ellen Ann Johnson Garden Club member of the year award.

By Guest Columnist Stephanie Patton

The Leland-Deer Creek Garden Club held their annual May Luncheon on May 17 to end the garden club year. Club President Patti Livingston welcomed members and guests to the luncheon and presented an overview of the projects, programs and accomplishments of the club over the last year.

“Our club is…the largest in our District and one of the oldest and largest in the state, [and] we still uphold the legacy of those who had the foresight to establish a garden club in Leland,” said Livingston. “We continue to be active in our community, with over twenty-five on-going projects – and we have fun doing it.”

Eight new members were welcomed, and they include: Cindy Beckham, Lora Delhi, BC Irwin, Marsha McDonnell, Kathy Simmons, Faye Stovall, Cindy Underwood, and Angie Wright.

Livingston also announced the 2025 Ellen Ann Johnson Garden Club member of the year as Gwin Cumbaa. Cumbaa currently serves as the club’s treasurer and has been instrumental in organizing fundraising efforts to support the garden club house and other projects.

“Ellen Ann’s legacy of leadership and her commitment to this organization and its goals is evident in everything Gwin does for Leland and for the garden club,” said Livingston. “She absolutely deserves this recognition for her many contributions.”

Guests enjoyed white wine and tea beverages served with pesto chicken salad, shrimp and pasta salad, Waldorf salad, and strawberry pie for dessert. The lunches were prepared by club member Vonda Burns, and the beautiful table flower arrangements were created by club member Cathy Wong.