WOODVILLE – Tyler County Judge Milton Powers had a letter to read before the Commissioners Court during Monday morning’s meeting, a letter he said he hoped to get through without crying.
The letter was from long-serving county clerk Donece Gregory, who announced her desire to retire, effective on Sept. 30.
Gregory has served in her position for 39 years, and worked before that for 10 years, for the county, prior to being elected. In her letter, she outlined some of the duties her office is responsible for and said her work has gotten her through many ups and downs through her life.
“Our commissioners have governed with professionalism and supported me with the needs for my office for many years,” she stated in the letter.
The letter also reflected on many changes made for the county in the time she had served, some of which she stated she was proud to have been a part of.
Gregory said her plans are to focus on her health, spend time with her daughter and to travel – “to see other parts of God’s creation,” she wrote.
Gregory, who was present for the meeting, did say that chief deputy clerk Dean Rivers was also planning to retire at the end of the year, and asked that the commissioners consider appointing Janet Brown to fill the looming vacancy.
Brown, who serves as deputy clerk and is over the civil court/probate court, has worked for the county for more than 20 years, and has served in a variety of capacities for the office of the county clerk.
“We were both trained the same way, and I know her enough to know she’ll carry on the same way I’ve carried on,” Gregory said.
“Donece is like a walking library,” said Pct. 1 Commissioner Joe Blacksher. “I hope people see [her] work for the county and realize it’s tremendous.”
“We thank you very much,” Powers said. “It sure is tough, but we appreciate everything you’ve done for Tyler County.”
The appointment of Brown was on Monday’s agenda and approved by the commissioners to an applause from everyone in the courtroom.
