MURFREESBORO, TN (WGNS) - Local developer and philanthropist John Floyd was celebrated Thursday (3/12/2026) at the 14th Annual Nissan Heart of Tennessee Red Cross Heroes’ Luncheon, filling the ballroom of MTSU’s Student Union Building with community leaders, volunteers and longtime supporters. The event highlighted Floyd’s decades of impact across Middle Tennessee—an influence that stretches far beyond the neighborhoods built through his company, Ole South Properties.

The Heroes’ Luncheon has become a signature gathering for the region, honoring individuals whose courage, compassion and steady acts of service have changed lives in quiet but powerful ways. This year, the spotlight fell on Floyd, whose philanthropic reach has grown steadily through the John Floyd Charitable Foundation. Over the years, he has donated more than $5 million to organizations supporting children and families, including Special Kids, the Boys & Girls Club, and Good Shepherd Children’s Home.

Red Cross leaders emphasized that Floyd’s commitment isn’t limited to financial support. He has been a vocal champion for vocational education, helping revive building‑trades programs in local schools so students can gain hands‑on skills that lead to stable, well‑paying careers. That blend of vision, generosity and community investment embodies the spirit of the Red Cross Heroes’ Award.

The luncheon also honored another essential pillar of the Red Cross mission: volunteerism. Terry Smith, a longtime volunteer and Heart of Tennessee chapter Board Emeritus member, was named Volunteer of the Year. Smith’s Red Cross journey began 12 years ago when a colleague encouraged her to get involved. That simple invitation grew into more than a decade of service—supporting families after disasters, guiding chapter initiatives, and offering steady leadership during moments when neighbors needed it most.

Volunteers, Red Cross officials noted, remain the backbone of the organization’s work across Middle Tennessee, from disaster response to military family support to lifesaving preparedness training.

“This year’s Hero John Floyd and Volunteer of the Year Terry Smith shared stories that reflect the very best of our community,” said John Mitchell, Executive Director of the Heart of Tennessee chapter. “Their selflessness demonstrates the true heart of our mission.”

Together, Floyd and Smith offered a portrait of what community leadership looks like in Rutherford County—one shaped by generosity, service and a commitment to lifting others.

In the last year the Red Cross locally has responded to 153 disasters, hosted 635 blood drives, installed 303 smoke alarms, provided services to 453 military members and their families and taught 5,320 people life saving skills. And as you have heard on WGNS, the Red Cross is critically low on blood. Phone 800-RED-CROSS (733-2767) and make an appointment to give "the gift of life" at a time that fits your schedule.