Mr. Bobby G. Wilder

Mr. Wilder was born in Johnston County, NC. After serving in the Navy for four years, he returned to NC State where he graduated in 1959 with a B.S. in Education. Until 1967, he taught science at Daniels Jr. High School in Raleigh. In 1958, he met Jack Ralph Lamm, who became his lifetime partner and dear friend for 43 years, until Jack’s passing in 2001. In 1986, they co-founded Century Framing Ltd. which is still a well respected business in Raleigh. He is a passionate gardener and he was a good friend of J.C. Raulston. He has been an active member of the J. C. Raulston Arboretum since it’s beginning in 1976. He continues to be one of the Arboretum’s most dedicated volunteers and donors, spending his time and resources to support the Arboretum and the many programs that are a part of the Arboretum’s heritage. Jack Lamm was born in Wilson, NC and he attended NC State, the University of North Carolina, and the Columbia and Parsons School of Design in New York City, NY. He was a Lieutenant in the US Army and served in WWII and Korea. He founded an interior design business in Wilson. In 1967, he began Jack R. Lamm Designs, a picture framing business in Raleigh and in 1986, he co-founded Century Framing Ltd. with Bobby Wilder. Jack had many friends, he loved to entertain his friends and family, and he loved to tell stories. Jack never met a stranger and would stay up all night long, talking to anyone who would stay up and listen. He loved to travel and make new friends. Jack volunteered at the Arboretum often. He was loved by many because he was such a rare and wonderful person who had such joy for life. Awards from this endowment will support students who plan to pursue an active career in horticulture.