After almost five years of retirement, I will soon be wishing a good friend and former co-worker, “Happy Retirement!” Diane Reed, Senior Services’ Director and a long-time fixture in Senior Services will retire, aiming for January 8, 2021. I’ve always thought of Diane Reed as the ‘heartbeat’ of Senior Services and a good friend of Henry County Seniors.
Long before I was introduced to Diane, I knew her name. The familiar long blond ponytail, fast pace, and electric smile seemed to be present everywhere and familiar to all.
Diane taught me everything I learned of our seniors, centers, and all Henry County offered for them. She was patient, forgiving, and caring for her seniors and staff. During my tenure with Senior Services I was lucky to have the experiences I did and Diane enriched those.
I say, “thank you,” to Diane and wish her the best in retirement. She will be missed by our seniors and I’m sure she is going to miss them! I can say, without a doubt, “No grass will grow under her feet.”
Several associates from Senior Services wanted to express their goodbyes, and their comments are included below. I wish there were room for everyone that would like to share!
Susan Craig: “Diane proved she could handle emergencies the first week I transferred to Senior Services. My short legs would not jump over a dining room table where a senior lady had fallen. Diane actually had to help me off the floor! I had my first experience with an IED when one of our seniors fainted at the reservoir while fishing. All I envisioned was that lady’s wig flying 100 feet (I thought it was her head!) and awaiting my electrocution. Diane actually resuscitated a senior lady on I-75 North near the old Braves stadium. I say this in jest because Diane enhanced the lives of so many others during the last years of their lives. Diane was one of the hardest working employees in Senior Services. I am thankful for the time we worked together.”
Nelda Dunson: “The first time I met Diane was the day I came to work for Senior Services. She greeted me with a smile and made me feel welcome and comfortable. Diane went on several trips with us, on which we enjoyed having her along, as she made the trips more enjoyable. Her smile and laughter always brightened up anywhere she went. Senior Services will miss her dearly!”
Traci Terrell: “It’s hard to sum up the ten years I have been privileged to know and work alongside Diane. She has been the most amazing mentor, teammate, and friend I could have ever asked for. We clicked right away, with our love for all things Harry Potter! (She’s a Gryffindor by the way, no surprise there) She has always been there to guide me, support me, and challenge me, and for that, I will be forever grateful. I will miss seeing her every day, but look forward to when we will become the most incredible Harry Potter Trivia team ever! I love you, Diane. Enjoy your retirement and I’ll see you at Trivia night!”
Tammy Neill: “I worked with Diane for 15 years. She was a great boss, always understanding and concerned. I couldn’t ask for a better person to work for. She loves her seniors and her employees. Diane, I hope you enjoy your retirement. Love, Tammy.”
Cynthia Niblett: “I don’t really have just one favorite memory of Mrs. Diane. I met her during my light duty position at Senior Services. I thought instantly, “This lady is Amazing!” As time went on, she welcomed me into the ‘Family.’ Every time I saw her, I received a hug and warm smile, just like a family member would give. Now, the time has come for you to enjoy the rest of your life outside of the county work. I know that they will fill your position, but Senior Services will never, ever replace you!”
Jimmie Batchelor is retired from Henry County Senior Services in Stockbridge, where she managed Hidden Valley Senior Center and resided for 38 years. She uses her newfound time writing and enjoying life!
