Everyone knows that if you have not showered, are in grubby clothes or are just having an unsocial day, Harris Teeter is NOT the place to go. Inevitably, you will run in to at least one person you know. However, even if you are trying to lay low, there are those certain people that you see that are so worth the encounter. Stephen Williams, is hands-down, that person that leaves you feeling better after you have a conversation with him or even just pass him and get swept up into that huge smile and his gregarious “hello”.

Stephen moved to St. Simons Island in 2005. He is originally from North Carolina but has lived in several different places including a stint in New York City. Stephen spent a good part of his career in shipping. After learning the business from his father, Stephen has brokered thousands of shipping loads all across the world. What is awesome about Stephen is he is never content doing just one thing. His latest endeavors include managing the co-working space “The Loft” while is is also working on bringing a shuttle and ferry network to St. Simons.

Stephen has three amazing children Emma (13), Gavin (9) and Max (5). Often you see him with the awesome threesome in tow. They love to adventure together and try new things.

We got a chance to sit down with Stephen and ask him a few questions.

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Q: Describe your journey to St Simons. What brought you here? What's kept you here?

SW: St. Simons – for me – was a delightful accident. I had often dreamt of the ideal spot to settle down - certainly coastal, perhaps a small town, a little quaint but still cosmopolitan, a vacation spot but not too seasonal, nice folks, good food, cool things to do, and it has to be great place to raise kids. So I happened upon St. Simons one Friday – whilst on my way to Savannah, stuck around to look at a house on Saturday, and bought the house on Monday!

That was 13 years ago…and each time that my wanderlust begins to stir I think “that could be a great place to visit, but SSI is home.”

Q: Tell me the 3 best things about you.

SW: three best things? well I don’t like to brag but I am pretty good at staring contests, can make a mean sandwich, and can cuss in a variety of languages.

Q: If you could share one thing about Saint Simons to someone who has never been here what would it be?

SW: for a small town, we have incredibly amazing restaurants.

Q: What would your superpower be?

SW: Superpower…hmmm…master hypnotist…makes my explanations more persuasive!

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If you love the idea of being able to travel to and from Jekyll Island via ferryboat, you can check back here learn more about and support Stephen’s project, as he will keep us all updated. And, next time you are grabbing some groceries at the Teet, be sure to be on the lookout for arguably the most pleasant person on St. Simons Island.