Alma Smith was recently caught by surprise at her private retirement reception at Fairfield Memorial Hospital. A large crowd had gathered in her honor after dedicating 61 years of service to Fairfield Memorial Hospital. Katherine Bunting-Williams, Ph.D., FMH CEO spoke of the many memorable moments of her career at the Hospital and presented Alma with her honorary plaque and gifts in recognition of her many years of service. Dr. Bunting then turned the microphone over to the Director of Nutrition Services, Lisa Maez. Lisa, who has known Alma all her life, proceeded to let Alma know that while all these individuals were gathered in one room, it was a perfect opportunity to also hold the Employee of the Month Ceremony for the Month of May. Alma shook her head in agreement and didn’t think a thing about it being an odd request, as she appeared to be relieved to be removed from the direct spotlight for just a moment. However, as she sat listening to who would be honored alongside her, she heard Lisa announce her name as the Employee of the Month recipient. Alma then looked at Lisa with a big grin as if she had really pulled one on her.
“Words cannot express how much everyone deeply loves Alma because of her kind spirit, as she has personally made a difference in so many lives. Alma has always treated everyone as family by ensuring the portions were never too small and no one ever went away hungry. Fairfield Memorial Hospital has been blessed with her one-of-a-kind service and love that will stay in our memories and hearts forever. Obviously Alma exemplifies outstanding patient care and customer service internally and externally and has done so for a very long time. It was only appropriate to once again honor her as the FMH Employee of the Month,” stated Katherine Bunting-Williams, Ph.D., FMH CEO.
“Alma has been part of my entire life, and I am looking forward to spending many more years seeing her finally enjoying her retirement and doing some of the activities that she hasn’t been able to do due to her extreme dedication to her role at the hospital. As expected, many individuals who attended the reception asked if she would be taking orders for pies. However, to their surprise, her response was, ‘You know Kid, I think I am going to take a little break.’ Those of us who know her well realize she won’t relax for long, but after 61 years a little break is more than well deserved,” stated Lisa Maez, Director of Nutrition Services.
Alma has officially retired her Hospital apron after 61 years of service as the longest standing employee of Fairfield Memorial Hospital. Her famous mile-high pies, sweet smile, and the kindness to staff and visitors will be missed, but never forgotten.
Pictured is Alma Smith receiving the May Employee of the Month plaque from Lisa Maez, FMH Director of Nutrition Services.
