Grenada’s Morris E. Hubbard was presented the Exchange Club of Grenada’s 49th Book of Golden Deeds Award last Thursday night for his years of service throughout the community.
Several family members and friends accompanied Hubbard at Ms. Emma’s Dining Room located on the Downtown Square when he was presented the award.
Receiving the award shocked Hubbard as the Exchange Club members notified him moments before family and friends entered Ms. Emma’s.
“I’m sort of stunned I think,” Hubbard said. “As I look out here, I see so many people who deserve this award more than me. I say that sincerely.”
The Book of Golden Deeds recognizes the good work of heroes and heroines of everyday life.
Pictures that were obtained by Hubbard’s family and friends of his achievements over the years played on a slideshow as the Exchange Club served a buffet style dinner.
“This is a special night to honor Mo Hubbard and his exemplary life,” Exchange Club Board Member Diane Davis said. “He is one of Grenada County’s finest citizens.”
Hubbard has many accomplishments and awards from his years of service in the community. Accomplishments and awards include, Grenada Lions Club President’s Award, Mid-South Sight & Hearing Edwin Dalstrom Award, Lion’s Club International Foundation’s Melvin Jones Award, Turner Trapp Lion of the Year Award, Lion’s International President’s Award for Fundraising Concerts 2015-16, Leader Dogs for the Blind Founders Tribute 2015, Grenada Area Chamber of Commerce “The Way Life Should Be” Award 2009, Unity Choir recognition 2009, James “Coach” Edmond Award 2013, Virginia Hubbard Volunteer Award 2018 (Mo Hubbard & the Jazz Magic Trio), The Grenada Star2013 Citizen of the Year, The Grenada Star 2013 Senior Spotlight and he is featured on Deborah Bailey’s “Musician’s Mural.”
Hubbard was born in Indianapolis Ind., and moved to Grenada when he was three. He attended Lizzie Horn Elementary and graduated from John Rundle High School in 1952. He married Pam on Jan. 8, 2001, and his musician friends were the entertaining band.
Hubbard plays the organ piano for his home church, The First Presbyterian’s Holy Week and other special events that are held there. He has been serving as pianist for Lakewood Independent Methodist Church since 2002 and St. Peter Catholic Church since 2015.
“I feel a little guilty, but I am always happy every time Dusty McKibben calls me to play for funerals,” Hubbard said.
At 87, Hubbard couldn’t imagine a day without music. For two hours every day, you can find him practicing the organ at his local church.
“Moe is truly a ‘Doer of Golden Deeds,’” Chairman of the Book of Golden Deeds Committee Ida Givens said. “I am honored to be able to present this award to such a well-deserved man.”
The Exchange Club’s Book of Golden Deeds serves as Grenada’s Lifetime Achievement Award. Exchange Club President Johnnie Morris said Hubbard was honored for his good works in Grenada with such a strong desire.
Nationally, the Book of Golden Deeds first originated in 1917, and was started in 1973 in Grenada with Lizzie Horn being the first recipient.
A book recording the evening’s events will be made in Hubbard’s name and is stored at the Elizabeth Jones Library. Elizabeth Jones received the Book of Golden Deeds in 1987. The Book of Golden Deeds recipient will also ride in the Christmas parade that is held in early December.
