THOMASVILLE-  After 33 years in public service, Thomas County Public Works Director Tony Bodiford retired Monday afternoon.

A celebration was held in his honor at the Thomas County Public Works headquarters, where Commissioner Michael Stephenson presented him with a plaque for a job well done.

With far too many stories of exemplary work, Stephenson told the crowd they already knew what a great man Bodiford was. However, he did want to share one story that personified who Bodiford was.

“When we made him the job offer seven years ago, he came to the office to talk about it,” Stephenson recalled. “We got all the details worked out, but then he called a second meeting.”

Stephenson was concerned and unsure what the second meeting could be about.

“I thought we got everything worked out the first meeting, but Tony sat down and said he wasn’t sure if he could take the job.”

Stephenson recalled telling Bodiford to slow down, trying to ease Bodiford’s concerns, as Bodiford was worried he would be fired if he didn’t work out.

“That’s not the way we work,” Stephenson assured him.

Stephenson then made a deal with Bodiford.

“You go to work out there as the director, and after a few months if you don’t like it, you can cash it in and go back to do what you’re doing,” he promised Bodiford. “But, if I like it, you stay on.”

The rest was history.

Bodiford committed daily to his job, serving seven years as the Public Works Director, and 33 years total for Thomas County.

“I guess it all worked out,” Stephenson joked. “I’ve enjoyed working with Tony and I’m going to miss you a whole lot. You’ve done a great job.”

Stephenson acknowledged the multiple employees in attendance, noting how they all respected and appreciated the work Bodiford had done as their Director and boss.

“I know they care a lot for you,” he told Bodiford, before addressing the employees and telling them Bodiford cared for them equally as much.

As a token of appreciation from Stephenson and the Thomas County Board of Commissioners, Bodiford was presented with a plaque for his dedicated service to the citizens of Thomas County.

“I appreciate it, this really means a lot,” Bodiford said. “There’s so much good I’ve had because of the county these past 33 years. The employees have been great.”

Bodiford said his biggest appreciation was to his family, especially his wife, who has dealt with his work schedule on numerous occasions.

“She always says I know good and well not that many trees go down at night,” Bodiford laughed. “But, my family has always been a big support for me.”

Bodiford also appreciated his “work wives,” who have been with him since he began working at the location of the old prison.

“They’ve been with me through the good and the bad and it’s just been awesome to work with all these people. I’ve loved it so much, and I will miss y’all,” Bodiford said.

Bodiford also thanked Tony Wooten, who was in attendance, for his training and guidance as Bodiford rose through the ranks.

“I’ll always appreciate that Tony,” he said.

With a round of applause, Public Works Construction Superintendent Jay Knight presented Bodiford with one more gift from all the employees.

“Even though you won’t have any maps to follow around Thomas County anymore, maybe this will help,” Knight said.

Bodiford was gifted a navigator to use on his boat while fishing. He immediately called out to some of his friends at the party, telling them it was time to go fishing, before thanking his employees one final time.