Little Gasparilla Island

03/03/2024

For those who love the Night Blooming Cereus this is some nice history. Click on both photos. It was given to Bob Pelfrey’s mother in Kentucky in 1948. Bobs sister Nina was able to date it. Verna Smith, Bobs mother brought it with her when she moved to Florida in the early 70’s. Frankie Pelfrey brought it to the island and planted it on the palm tree by their home , the golf cart shop and home. When you see it in bloom think of the Pelfreys, and remember there will always be a part of them on the island.

10/01/2022

I think this is the home my parents Bob and Frankie Pelfrey owned on the left, and the home the Hill's owned on the right. Both homes were built by Joe Bell and looked the same. It looks like the the golf cart shop behind the house. It's the only post storm photo I have seen. It may not belong to the family anymore but it has a special place in our hearts, it's full of memories. If anyone has any photos or knows how the cart shop and home did during the storm please share. To all the home owners who are dealing with the tragedy our hearts go out to you. We know how special LGI is to you ❤️ Kathy Pelfrey O'Berry

08/13/2022

The island has lost a legend. Sam Dixon was one of a kind. My father Bob Pelfrey was the first golf cart shop owner. In 2002 he had a heart attack on the island. In true Sam Dixon fashion he navigated the waters he knew so well in record speed to get to my dad. Sam gave us a gift we can never repay, 14 more years with our dad. Our hearts go out to Suzanne, Taylor and the entire Dixon family who were like family to my parents. We pray for peace and comfort. I know my dad is with Sam right now ❤️

06/10/2020

Still going through my parents things. The sign my dad had for renting his golf carts, pretty basic. It later changed to he would not rent to anyone with teenagers unless he personally knew you. At that time the rules were his rules. They were verbal, my mom made the sign. LOL...He never asked for a deposit and took checks. He enjoyed making custom NASCAR carts with his favorite drivers numbers. He did little repairs for free or accepted a 12 pack of Cokes for payment. He was the definition of old school. His shop refrigerator was always full of Cokes. Something his grandchildren knew and loved. It was a cool hangout as he spent all day in his shop. So happy to see what he started become such a successful business. The only grocery delivery back then would be if people called and asked dad to pick up a gallon of milk when he went to the marina. My parent were so thrilled when Sam started delivering the Sunday newspaper.So nice to have this page to reflect on the memories.

06/09/2020

Going through my mother’s things I came across this article from Oct. 1997. It’s wonderful to find these treasures.

06/18/2016

Thank you for all the wonderful memories and comments concerning my father Robert Pelfrey a twenty year resident of the island. My dad passed peacefully this morning surrounded by his wife and three children. Bob was the go to guy on the island and the original golf cart cart guy. He was the one friend you could always count on.

06/15/2016

I wanted to share some early photos of the chapel. My father Bob Pelfrey his brother Jim Pelfrey, Bruce, Bip and young Richard Leydon built this chapel that was funded by Jerry Mirza. It was a true labor of love. Today as I watch my father slowly pass away under the care if Hospice I ask that any of the old times who knew my dad as the golf cart guy to please stop by the chapel and say a little prayer for him. If you knew my father then you are truly blessed. If you did not know my father but have experienced the simple beauty of the chapel please say a prayer for him. Thank you... Kathy Pelfrey O'Berry

10/18/2014

I wanted to share a video for my Mom's birthday, My parents Bob & Frankie Pelfrey lived on the island for 20 years full time. My dad was the first owner of the golf course business. They were the go to people for 911 calls in the middle of the night. For a place of rest for the sheriff during island calls. They cared for many of the homes on the island. My children spent their youth there and now realize how special that their grandparents lived at the beach. They returned to Tampa in 2005. If you remember my parents please feel free to leave a message here for them.
https://animoto.com/play/tDYQOzl6jaoQCxzu2cJAYQ

I love you Mom...

07/15/2014

Island time!

07/14/2014

Thinking of the island today.

06/07/2013

I'm not sure if any of the current fans of this page remember Bob Pelfrey the golf cart guy. He lived on the island over 20 years and was the go to guy for anyone who needed help including middle of the night 911 calls. Today is his 79th. birthday. Happy Birthday Bob.http://animoto.com/play/03AdcPHbVOq6sDc71m2lYQ

Seeing My Daddy in Me! To the most amazing father anyone could ask for. I love you Daddy.

09/26/2012

Found this great old photo. Could that be Little Gasparilla in the background? Note the boat says Englewood.
https://www.facebook.com/photo.php?fbid=478047315539803&set=a.154381744573030.28712.154376811240190&type=1&theater

Stanford Fishing Resort - Englewood 1953
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