Pike County’s Probate Office welcomed a new face Monday.

Chief Clerk Linda Floyd, replacing long-time Clerk Donna Fannin Gilliam, was sworn into office Monday to take the spot.

Floyd, a life-long resident of Pike County, was appointed by the Probate Judge Wes Allen to replace Gilliam, who announced her retirement in April but has continued to work to help Allen get acclimated in his new position.

“The probate office is losing a 15-year veteran in Donna Fannin Gilliam to retirement.  She will be truly missed,” Allen said.

“Donna was kind enough to delay her retirement through the transition, but I respect her decision to retire. That is why I have brought on Linda Floyd to fulfill the chief clerk’s responsibilities.”

The chief clerk is a sworn-in public official, who serves as office manager of the probate office and performs the duty of the probate judge in his absence.

Floyd, graduated from Auburn University in Montgomery, with a degree in justice and public safety. Since, she worked for local attorney Bill Key and most recently has worked in the worthless checks unit for the Pike County District Attorney’s office.

Floyd was appointed to the position, but she said she did express interest in it herself.

“When I found out Donna was retiring, I talked with her, and she told me to submit a resume,” Floyd said. “I was called in for an interview and a week later was offered the job.”

Floyd said she was excited about the opportunity to serve in the probate court and has an interest in that type of court system.

“I just enjoy the court system of the probate office,” Floyd said. “It means a lot to me and will give me an opportunity to serve the people of Pike County.”

Allen said Floyd’s local ties and legal experience will make her a valued member of the office.

“Linda Floyd will be valued member of our team.  She has life-long connections to Pike County, the experience needed and has a heart for public service,” Allen said.