Alma Smith, who has been working at Fairfield Memorial Hospital Dietary Services since 1955, is putting down her measuring spoons. On Monday, May 23, 2016, she will officially be retiring her Hospital apron after 61 years of service. Alma, who is the longest standing employee of Fairfield Memorial Hospital, is known best for her famous mile-high pies, her sweet smile, and the kindness to staff and visitors. Many staff and visitors are known as and are called, “Kid,” as she has watched grow not only as community members, but also as professionals over the years. Alma came to Fairfield Memorial Hospital in 1955 and served as the Dietary Manager until the late 1990s. Upon stepping down from management to focus on cafeteria customer service, Alma was able to do what she has always done best, connect with the community. She has always treated everyone as family and was known for ensuring the portions were never too small and no one would ever go away hungry. In addition to serving staff and visitors, she also took lead for many years in preparing the food items for special functions held at the Hospital on a regular basis.
To honor Alma for her dedication and service, a private retirement reception is being held at Fairfield Memorial Hospital; however, over Alma’s 61years of service she has touched so many lives in the community that a public card shower is underway and all cards can be dropped off at the FMH Administrative Office or mailed to Alma Smith at Fairfield Memorial Hospital c/o Administration 303 NW 11th St. Fairfield, IL 62837.
“Fairfield Memorial Hospital has been more than blessed with the spirit and dedication of the one and only Alma Smith who has positively touched so many individuals over the years. We have been gifted with her one-of-a-kind service, and will be spending time honoring her for all she has contributed to our organization. However, we know how special she was to so many others outside our current healthcare team, and encourage those individuals to send Alma a note to celebrate her kindness,” stated Katherine Bunting-Williams, Ph.D., FMH CEO.
