Birth Of Our Founders Wilfred S. “Bill” Templeton was born August 1, 1928 in Union Grove, N.C.. and Ann J. (Baker) Templeton was born December 1, 1929 in Laurel Springs, N.C.. Both came from humble backgrounds, as did many who were part of this The Greatest Generation.
Our History
1928 / 1929
He's A Patriot!
Although a full 4 years shy of enlistment age, Bill found a way to follow his older brothers into service by joining the Navy. Only via a freak accident that landed him in the hospital was his ruse discovered. He was promptly shipped home! Undaunted, he would later join the Army and serve during the Korean conflict.
1942
1945
Here Comes The Bride
At the ripe old ages of 17 and 15 respectively, Bill marries local sweetheart Ann Jean Baker. They would be blessed with three children: Stephen, Anthony & Pamela.
Want To Buy A Car?
Bill began his automotive career in 1947 in North Wilkesboro, N.C. His natural affability and instant likeability would serve him well throughout his life as he would eventually own dealerships in Virginia, North Carolina, and Florida.
1947
1995
A Celebration of 50 Years
Not having had a big wedding originally, their 50th anniversary was the perfect opportunity to “do it right” with the renewing of vows in front of family and friends.
The Templeton Foundation, Inc. Is Incorporated Continuing to experience the limitless blessings of God upon their lives, Bill and Ann felt led to establish this entity to give back a portion of that for which they had been made stewards. They would use these resources for reconciling a lost world to Christ, strengthening and protecting the family, fostering an appreciation for God’s hand in birthing our nation, and preserving the principles of the American founding.
2005
2010
Templeton Giving Surpasses $1 Million Even during a period of time marked by a historic economic downturn that significantly impacted the automotive industry, the Foundation had been able to give away over $1 million in 5 short years.
The Last Sale
The last dealership owned/operated was the pinnacle of Bill’s automotive career and was known as “The Family Store.” Fort Myers Toyota was a massive organization located on 15 acres in Fort Myers, Florida. Under his leadership, the store became one of the largest in the country, and won countless awards including the President’s Award for excellence in all areas of operations and customer service. It was a glimmering example of
the blessings God bestowed on one of his faithful servants, and is now owned by AutoNation.
2011
2012/13
Loss of 1st Generation Leadership The first loss occurred when the Lord took Ann home on May 15, 2012 after an all too short bout with cancer. This was followed by Bill’s passing a short twelve months later on May 19, 2013. Both services were celebrations of lives lived to the fullest, and a testament that God truly can “do exceeding abundantly above all that we ask or think (Eph. 3:20).”
Templeton Giving Surpasses $4 Million Even though our founders have passed, the firm financial footing they left has allowed The Templeton Foundation to continue to support the areas that were especially dear to them.
2018
2020
Name Change In an effort to distinguish ourselves from the other two Templeton foundations as well as pay homage to our founders, the board of directors voted unanimously to change the name to The Bill & Ann Templeton Foundation.