Wanda Moultry’s brother said he knew Wanda had a “bunch of friends,” but he was amazed by who her friends were.

From city workers, to firefighters, to lawyers and judges, more than a hundred people attended a reception for Moultry at City Hall on Monday. After 16 years, Moultry will be leaving the District 5 seat on Troy’s City Council.

“Forty years ago, we used to live behind this place [City Hall],” Victor Howard said to his sister. “You have come so far. What Mama said came true.”

Representatives from the Troy City Council, Troy University, Pike Area Chamber of Commerce and many others spoke in front of the crowd acknowledging Moultry’s accomplishments and spirit.

“In a few days it will be 16 years since we stood up here and put our hands on a Bible and said we’d do our best for Troy,” said Mayor-elect Jason Reeves, who also noted Moultry was like an older sister to him. “Troy is a better place and I am a better man for knowing Wanda Moultry.”

Moultry’s son, Antonio Howard, delivered emotion-filled words to his mother and those gathered.

“We thank everyone for coming out and celebrating a great moment for a woman that’s meant so much to me and everyone,” Howard said. “We love you and we will always be by your side. We thank you for what you have do for our family and our city.”

Different groups gave Moultry plaques and gifts and council members received laughs when they presented the “retiring” city councilwoman a rocking chair from the City of Troy.
“What an honor to have served,” Moultry said. “Troy will continue to have a bright future. It is my honor to have been an advocate for you.”

And then, with Wanda Moultry’s well known charm and humor, she said to all who gathered, “Oh, yeah. Y’all can start back eating.”