Columbia County honors 15 retiring employees for decades of service

Columbia County colleagues gathered to recognize 15 employees retiring this year, honoring decades of service across multiple departments. Speakers described long friendships, everyday workplace rituals and institutional knowledge that will leave a gap when these employees depart.

A county colleague captured the tone of the event, saying, "When you work for Columbia County, you don't just get a job." Human resources noted the scale of experience leaving the county: three retirements in one department accounted for 99 years of combined service, and individual tenures mentioned during the program included 47 years (John), 39 years (Martha), 37 years (Beverly LaRory) and 35 years (Mary). Many other retirees were described as having more than 20 years on the job.

Speakers offered personal tributes: coworkers recalled the regular watermelon breaks and friendly arguments with Gus; staff thanked "Miss Sam" for meals and for keeping office systems organized; colleagues described Vicky's hospitality and Daniel-like warmth toward visitors; and multiple presenters said John had been "the face of Columbia County" whose smile and daily greetings will be missed. Phyllis received several personal remembrances and a statement from Mark Swain, who identified himself as her husband and spoke about plans for more time at the beach and with family.

The remarks emphasized both everyday contributions — meal service, work-order handling and institutional memory — and the emotional side of departure. Several speakers asked retirees to keep in touch and invited them back for lunches or visits.

No votes or policy actions were taken during the recognition; the meeting served as a ceremonial acknowledgment of service. Human resources' tally of years and the list of named retirees will be kept in county records for staffing and succession planning.

Columbia County did not announce further personnel actions or replacements during the program. The recognition closed with collective thanks and well-wishes to the retirees.