Today we celebrate National HR Day by recognizing the outstanding work of our Human Resources team.

This group was honored as Royal American’s 2024 Support Department of the Year, and for good reason. They keep us fully staffed, ensure we all receive our benefits, and patiently answer a million questions about PTO, retirement, and more… every single day.

From keeping us organized to providing the support we need to succeed, their dedication makes a company-wide impact.

We are grateful for their hard work and commitment- not just today, but every day. Thank you, HR team, for all that you do!

National Night Out is an annual event that encourages neighbors to come together, build relationships, and promote safer, more connected communities. Every year, local police and fire departments join in to strengthen the bonds of trust and partnership that help make our neighborhoods a better place to live.

This year, Hampton Lake hosted a fantastic National Night Out celebration with a wonderful turnout! Residents enjoyed an evening filled with fun, laughter, and community spirit. We are so thankful for the support of our local police and fire departments, whose presence reminds us of the importance of working together.

Events like these highlight what makes our communities so special… neighbors coming together, supporting one another, and celebrating the places we call home. Way to go, Hampton Lake, for bringing everyone together for such a meaningful evening!

It is with deep sadness that we share the passing of our colleague and friend, Gerald Thompson, a valued member of our Accounting Department.

Gerald was more than just a dedicated employee; he was the heart of many moments that made our workplace feel like home. Known for his quirky humor, warm personality, and unwavering generosity, Gerald had a unique way of bringing people together. Whether it was through his famous home cooked meals, his passion for gardening, or his endless stream of trivia and stories, Gerald made a lasting impression on everyone he met.

His supervisor, Shannon, shared these heartfelt words:

“Gerald had a generous spirit and a gift for sharing, whether it was a cucumber from his garden, a tomato plant, quail eggs, or even just part of his sandwich, he always offered what he had with a smile. His presence in the office was unforgettable; teammates often joked that he was like a personal radio station, constantly sharing trivia, stories, and facts. Sometimes we understood them, sometimes we didn’t, but they were always delivered with enthusiasm and heart.

One of Gerald’s greatest passions was cooking, and you never had to ask him twice. He was always happy to prepare something for others, and he was truly talented in the kitchen. His warmth, humor, and generosity will be deeply missed by all of us who had the privilege of working with him.”

His coworker, Heather Ward, also shared a special memory:

“Red beans and rice—OMG…they were AMAZING! Delicious…I have never had better. I told him I could eat those every day and he said, ‘Nope, I only make it once a year.’ LOL. Gerald was always good for a laugh. His sarcastic wit, his trivia—that I might get (or not). We will miss him.

This is the tomato plant Gerald gave me. It is just starting to bear fruit.”

Gerald’s obituary described him as someone who “lived a life full of purpose, pouring his time and energy into the people he loved and the passions that brought him joy.” That sentiment rings true for all of us who were lucky enough to know him.

As we reflect on Gerald’s many contributions and the joy he brought to our Royal American family, we extend our deepest sympathies to his family, friends, and all who had the privilege of working alongside him. His memory will live on in the countless stories, meals, and moments he shared with us.