WOODVILLE – For the better part of 40 years, and over the course of five decades, Ofeira Gazzaway has led Heritage Village to be the pre-eminent attraction to Woodville and Tyler County that it has become.
Gazzway, who announced her retirement at the end of last year, will be celebrated on Saturday, Feb. 22, at the Allan Shivers Library and Museum with a retirement party.
The party begins at 3 p.m., with visitors being able to come in through the museum entrance. Food and drink will be available in the museum board room, and the Bunch Reading Room will be open for presentations and for anyone who wishes to say a few words.
Gazzaway has served as the Executive Director of the Heritage Village complex for more than 30 years, and has been with the Village and Tyler County Heritage Society (TCHS) since TCHS bought the property from Clyde Gray in 1987.
“We thank her for her significant contributions. The Village has seen extended growth in exhibits, fun events, and exciting tours. Also, new venues having been added, we have grown into a complex. We wish Ofeira well in future endeavors,” a statement from TCHS read.
“While we will greatly miss Mrs. Gazzaway’s guidance and vision, we are excited to announce that Cydney Tucker has stepped into the role of Executive Director, effective Feb. 3, 2025. Tucker brings more than 15 years of useful experience in our museum industry to the position.”
Under Gazzaway’s leadership, Heritage Village has hosted many regular events that have drawn visitors from all over the map, including the Harvest Festival and the Festival of the Arts, which is held every third weekend in March.
