TO CONGRATULATE BETTY E. GORDON ON THE OCCASION OF HER RETIREMENT, TO THANK HER FOR HER FIFTY-SIX YEARS OF DEDICATED SERVICE IN THE HOSPITAL SYSTEMS OF SOUTH CAROLINA, AND TO EXTEND BEST WISHES FOR MUCH HAPPINESS AND FULFILLMENT IN THE YEARS TO COME.

Whereas, for fifty-six years, the hospital systems of South Carolina have enjoyed the professional knowledge, skill, and experience of Betty E. Gordon, manager of the Williamsburg Regional Hospital Dietary Department. In February 2015, this dedicated hospital dietician will begin a well-deserved retirement; and

Whereas, in 1959, Betty Gordon began her hospital career with six years at Kelly Memorial Hospital in Kingstree, where she worked on the tray line. Upon Kelly Memorial's closing, Mrs. Gordon, transitioned to Williamsburg Regional Hospital, also in Kingstree, where she served for the next fifty years; and

Whereas, from working on the tray line, she advanced to the position of cafeteria service supervisor. Years later, she was promoted to director of food services, a post she has filled with excellence for more than sixteen years. During her tenure of employment, Mrs. Gordon also received her certification as a dietician from Florence-Darlington Technical College; and

Whereas, at home, Betty Gordon is the proud mother of four sons and one daughter, who have given their mother the joy of eighteen grandchildren and thirty-eight great-grandchildren; and

Whereas, this woman of faith treasures her membership at Greater Bethel AME Church in Kingstree, where she serves in several capacities. She is president of the Senior Choir and Pastor's Aide Committee and is a class leader in the church. Further, she is a devoted member of the African Methodist Episcopal Ministers' Wives Alliance, King Solomon Assembly #331 Order of Golden Circle, and Evening Star Chapter #246 of the Eastern Star; and

Whereas, on the occasion of her retirement, Betty Gordon's colleagues will gather to honor her at a celebratory event to be held February 21, 2015; and

Whereas, appreciative of Betty Gordon's long commitment to her profession, the Senate extends grateful thanks for her service to the citizens of this great State. The members trust she will find much enjoyment in the more leisurely pace of the days ahead. Now, therefore,

Be it resolved by the Senate:

That the members of the South Carolina Senate, by this resolution, congratulate Betty E. Gordon on the occasion of her retirement, thank her for her fifty-six years of dedicated service in the hospital systems of South Carolina, and extend best wishes for much happiness and fulfillment in the years to come.

Be it further resolved that a copy of this resolution be provided to Betty E. Gordon.