After making and selling flower arrangements since 1956, Fred Williams of Fred’s Flower Shop will pull up weeds for the final time when he retires on June 30 after more than 50 years in the business.

Many local florists speak highly of the sweet man, who’s provided expertise, personal advice and flowers for weddings, funerals and graduations for more than five decades.

“It’s a blessing to live and have a thriving business for a half a century and leave in good health,” said Vicky Wilkerson, owner of the Flower Basket. “He’s dedicated to his job and work — he’s like the grandfather of the florist business. He’s my advice man and I love him and will miss him.”

“He’s been an excellent role model and designer and I applaud him for the amount of success that he’s had,” said Tonya Smith-Chestnut of Smith Florists. “You don’t be in business for 50 years being average. He’s no stranger to me and I wish him well.”

Bill Albritton of Albritton’s Flowers has known Williams for more than 30 years. He admires Williams’ staying power during times of economic ups and downs.

“He’s very talented and he’s been a local standard,” Albritton said. “We had a great working relationship and when my father died years ago, he offered to do his flower arrangements and that meant a lot. He’s very active in the community and known throughout the entire region and state. It’s amazing.”

Williams, whose parents owned JH Williams and Sons Funeral Home, has talways loved flowers. He felt adding them as arrangements, would be beautiful additions for funerals. Putting arrangements together has stuck with him ever since.

“I nurse my flowers and see that things are properly done. When I touch them everything is fine once they’re out the door,” Williams said. “This is a personal business for me and I think that’s the reason my business has lasted so long.”

When Williams closes his doors at the end of the month, he won’t be finished sorting flowers just yet.

“This is my baby — I love this,” Williams said. “I hope to freelance and still service customers who want personal flowers for weddings, funerals and parties.”

Fred’s Flowers retirement sale is going on now.