Frances “Billy” Johnson was honored with the Wilson L. Smith Philanthropic Award during Rowan Regional Medical Center Foundation’s Annual Donor Appreciation and Recognition Dinner held Feb. 24.
Johnson was presented with the award by Dr. Thomas K. Carlton, Jr., board chairman of the Rowan Regional Medical Center Foundation. Daughters Judy, Kathryn and Joanne were on hand for the presentation, as well as other family members Starling Johnson, Hedrick Strickland and John Strickland.
The award honored Johnson’s philanthropy and special service to the Rowan-Salisbury community and especially to Rowan Regional Medical Center.
After a video tribute to Johnson’s commitment to growing and nurturing key organizations and institutions in Salisbury and Rowan, Patsy Reynolds, a longtime family friend, introduced the family and regaled the audience with stories of her long association with Johnson and what her friendship and counsel has meant.
Previously known as the President’s Award, the honor was renamed in 2007 the Wilson L. Smith Philanthropic Award by the foundation board of directors in recognition of Smith’s generosity and advocacy to Rowan Regional Medical Center and its foundation. Evelyeen and Wilson Smith were presented with Rowan Regional Medical Center Foundation’s first Legacy Award in 2006.
The Donor Appreciation and Recognition Dinner is held annually by Rowan Regional Medical Center Foundation as a thank you to friends and donors who contribute $500 or more to Rowan Regional Medical Center, Rowan Regional Hospice or the foundation.