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Stubblefield retiring with a smile

Stubblefield retiring with a smile

McMinnville Civic Center employees and patrons will be saying good-bye to a friend Thursday when front desk attendant Elizabeth Stubblefield retires after more than 20 years working at the facility.
After more than 20 years in the McMinnville Parks and Recreation Department, Elizabeth Stubblefield is set to retire, again. For her, the second time seems to be a charm. She?s thinking this time her retirement is for good.

She began working at the Civic Center in June 1984. In 1991, she and her husband, Hugh, retired from a business they operated together for over 40 years, Stubby?s Dry Cleaners.

Stubblefield has held several positions as a part-time employee for Parks and Recreation over the years. She began helping as support staff for special events and ended up working as a front desk attendant.

Although she says it was time to retire because she wants to enjoy some time with her husband and family, she will miss her job.

?I?ll miss working at the Civic Center so much,? said Stubblefield. ?I?ve spent so much time there. I know I?ll miss being with the children. I?ll miss the people the most.?

As for life beyond the city?s recreation department, Stubblefield plans on traveling a little. Right now, there are no destination plans for her and maps may not be needed because there is no place like home.

?We do plan on taking short trips,? said Stubblefield. ?There?s nothing like returning home to your own bed at night, so we?ll do short trips just to get out and ride.?

Given her vast experience, replacing her may not be possible, said Parks and Recreation director Carlene Brown.

?Given her work experience and dealing with the public, how can you replace that?? asked Brown. ?She came to us with such good work ethics. She always came to work and came prepared. Even if she didn?t feel like coming to work she did anyway. We?ll find someone but I don?t think replacing her will be possible.?

According to Brown, Stubblefield always pitched in to help when it was needed and did it with a smile. She was always the first one to step up to the plate because she is truly a team player and believes in the Civic Center.

A farewell/birthday party, given that her 78th birthday is Jan. 28, is scheduled at the Civic Center on Jan. 25 from 3-5 p.m. Everyone is invited.

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