Judy Stephens may have had tears in her eyes as she said her goodbyes today, but she also had a big smile.
Stephens retired from the City of Troy after 23 years of service. Friday was her last day.
“I was in billing and collecting,” she said. “I’m not going to miss punching a clock. But, I’m going to miss the people. After 23 years, it feels like I’m leaving home.”
As she left City Hall, Mayor Jason Reeves gave her a big hug and said, “I love you, Ms. Judy.”
“Her son and I graduated high school together and played baseball together,” Reeves said. “She’s like a mother figure to me. She’ll be greatly missed. But, I’m excited she can now spend more time with her family.”
She said she looked forward to spending more time with her family, which includes eight grandchildren.
Stephens plans to spend time at her grandsons’ baseball games. One is a junior at Goshen High School. The other, a senior at Charles Henderson High School.
Stephens’ biggest joy is caring for her 90-year-old mother and 91-year-old uncle.
“I’m going to have some fun with my friends, too,” she said. “But, my priority is my family and my grandchildren.”