Santa Claus (aka Sonny Gobert, 80) and Mrs. Santa Claus (Janet Gammon, 72) are technically just volunteer Santa’s helpers, but they are quickly becoming a beloved pair at the North River Family YMCA on Hixson Pike.
In real life, the two seniors are boyfriend and girlfriend, which is, well, as sweet as Christmas candy. She puts rouge on his cheeks before his Santa appearances. He hands out compliments about her left and right. “She’s a great lady and an inspiration, not just as Mrs. Claus,” Sonny gushes.
The pair will make their annual appearance in costume at the North River YMCA on December 18, as part of a holiday celebration that is fast becoming a tradition at this YMCA branch (see box for details).
Janet works part-time at the Y as a substitute fitness instructor, and Sonny is retired from Brock Candy Company. He worked in logistics and distribution at Brock, skills that come in handy as a volunteer helper in Santa’s supply chain.