Felty Roland Florist began in 1963 when Eula Felty and Iva B. Roland started a flower shop after losing their jobs at the plant.
Twelve gears later, in 1975, Richard Sharpin, took a leap of faith and purchased the shop! Richard was born in Connecticut, raised in West Knoxville, and was working in Nashville at the time. While he had zero floral experience, he had a love for community and a dream to run his own business.
The shop’s historic home, the former Hathaway Funeral Home, was first rented to Richard by Bob Hathaway for just $100. Over the years, Felty-Roland has grown into a local institution. They have a commitment to spoil customers and be part of their lives and stories through flowers.
For decades Richard and his team have generously donated time, resources, and expertise to create and prepare the holiday wreaths for the Covered Bridge, both the patriotic and holiday wreaths! This huge donation makes such a difference for our small town, bringing joy and festivity throughout the seasons.
Today, Richard, his wife Martha, their three children, and three grandchildren continue to cherish the shop’s legacy and the 50 years of stories they’ve created as a family together!
From weddings and celebrations to farewells and new beginnings, Felty-Roland has helped tell the stories of generations. They have an Old Soul full of history and memories, and they continue to tell New Stories as an active and vibrant business in our downtown district.
