December 15, 2015 -- After passing a civil service exam with an almost-perfect score, Virginia Williams, information technology supervisor, Marine Corps Logistics Base Albany, began her federal career as a card punch operator. Her service has spanned more than 41 years.
During a retirement ceremony in the Chapel of the Good Shepherd on base, Dec. 10, her extensive service was recognized with commendations from several dignitaries including President Barack Obama; Congressman Sanford D. Bishop Jr.; Gen. Joseph F. Dunford Jr., Commandant of the Marine Corps; and Col. James C. Carroll III, commanding officer, MCLB Albany.
Williams credits her success to an attitude of service.
“I believe in serving,” she said. “When I serve, I put all I (have) into it.”
Lori Farr, director, Communication and Information Systems Division, confirmed Williams’ stellar service. She explained Williams did not just come in and complete a task. She described Williams treating her job as a family member.
“The telephone was her baby,” Farr said. “She took complete ownership of it and it meant something to her.”
Similar to a mother watching her child leave home, Farr described Williams’ pending retirement.
“She wants to go, but she does not want to leave it because that is hers,” Farr said.
She revealed that level of dedication and commitment will be hard to replace.
Although Williams will leave ‘her baby’, she has attempted to ensure it will be left in good hands. Montravious Sherman, IT specialist, MCLB Albany, said she has taken a lot of time and effort to make sure he understands everything so he can do his job to the best of his ability.
Alfonzo Tyson, IT specialist, MCLB Albany, revealed Williams has also afforded many training opportunities for her team to gain more expertise.
Stacey Williams, safety specialist, Risk Management, MCLB Albany, and brother of Virginia Williams, said his sister has always shown those traits for as long as he could remember.
“She is the oldest sister, so she has always been a leader,” he explained.
He said she has always taken care of others and she brings out the best in people.
Virginia Williams’ leadership and strong commitment to service is also evident in her personal life. She is an active member of the Saint Paul Missionary Baptist Church senior choir, a community volunteer and is a foster parent for Dougherty County. She has fostered so many children, she has lost count.
“I know you will not retire from service to humanity because this is something that is ingrained in you,” a commendation from Bishop noted.
Proving him correct, Virginia Williams spoke of the concern she will always have for the family she is leaving.
“These are like my babies; they know if they really need me, they can call me,” she said, speaking of her team.
Never straying from her mother-like role, Williams had one last bit of advice. A simple routine she admits she did not practice.
“At 4:30, go home and leave it at work,” she said.