Roy “Bug” Plummer, a 53-year-old Tyler resident, dedicates his time to maintaining the Old Omen Recreation Area on Lake Tyler, specifically focusing on the cleanliness of the boat ramp and surrounding areas. Plummer, who lives with cerebral palsy, regularly picks up cans and other trash, contributing to a cleaner environment for visitors and boaters.
His commitment to the lakeside area extends beyond simple upkeep; it is intertwined with a profound personal transformation. Plummer describes his work as driven by faith, stating, “The Lord helps me get up, and I love doing what I’m doing.” This daily activity is part of a broader health improvement he has experienced since moving to East Texas three years ago.
The move to the Lake Tyler area from Houston, following his grandmother’s passing, has been described as a “miracle” by his brother, Scott Plummer. According to Scott Plummer, Roy’s health has seen dramatic improvements. His breathing problems, which were once a concern, have cleared up. His blood pressure has improved significantly, and his diabetes, a chronic condition, has resolved entirely. Furthermore, Plummer has lost over 60 pounds, a change attributed to his ability to get out and ride his bike regularly in the healthier lakeside environment.
These remarkable health outcomes stand in stark contrast to early medical prognoses. Scott Plummer recalls that doctors had not expected Roy to live beyond the age of 12. His brother reflects on this, stating, “We say he’s shown them. They don’t know more than God,” underscoring a belief in a higher power guiding Roy’s life and resilience.
Plummer’s efforts at the Old Omen Recreation Area have also fostered a unique connection with the local community. Neighbors and frequent boaters to Lake Tyler actively support his work by collecting and bringing him cans. The proceeds generated from recycling these cans are then utilized by Plummer to fund upgrades for his tricycle, enhancing his mobility and enabling him to continue his cleaning routine. Family member Kelly Robinson highlights the community’s appreciation, noting, “This is the first place we come to see if we can see Roy,” indicating his integral role in the lakeside community, a role that continues to benefit both him and the public space he tends.
