Habitat for Humanity of Smith County volunteer helps build 50th home

Published 11:56 am Tuesday, December 3, 2019

Habitat for Humanity of Smith County volunteer Bob Beckley, 85, will participate on his 50th home build Saturday at 2401 N. Tenneha Ave. in Tyler.

Beckley has helped build Habitat homes since 2004.

“I was a magazine printing engineer in Illinois and when I retired, I moved to Mount Sylvan to be closer to family,” he said. “I wanted to keep active, so I built my own house and then wanted to do more. I learned how to do carpentry, electrical, plumbing, etc., by watching other people over the years.”

He said his favorite part of the home builds is having the homeowner put the first nails in the first wall.

“I also love it when we are building a home with children and having them write their name on the slab that will be their room.”

Beckley is an Army veteran. He and his wife, Wilma, will celebrate 43 years of marriage in January. He has two children, two stepchildren, and several grandchildren and great-grandchildren.

The build will be the final home constructed by Beckley as he prepares to retire from his volunteer work. He says it’s bittersweet, but he’s enjoyed his time with Habitat.

The home on Tenneha will be the 109th home built by Habitat for Humanity of Smith County. “We are currently processing applications for a prospective family for this house and hope to have someone selected soon so they can pick out their colors and finishes,” said Jack Wilson, CEO of Habitat for Humanity of Smith County.

“We are planning to build two more homes on Tenneha in the first half of 2020 and are currently looking for people who might qualify for a Habitat home,” he said.

“Homeowners purchase their homes from Habitat with a no-profit, 30-year mortgage. Applicants must demonstrate the need for affordable housing and show the ability to make a monthly mortgage payment. More information is on our website,” he added.

First Christian Church of Tyler gave the lead gift. Church members will volunteer to build the house.

“We are so excited to work with Habitat on this home build,” said Chris Pulliam, FCC senior minister. “We hope other faith-based organizations might join us.”