From staff reports

After 25 years of service to the Ohio Department of Transportation, Joan Williams has retired from her position with the Lawrence County Highway Maintenance Facility.

Williams, who was an account clerk, retired from ODOT on December 31, 2002. In addition to providing customer service and support, Williams was responsible for maintaining the county facility's daily business activities, which included maintaining yard and inventory records; processing management reports and payroll and handling radio and emergency calls.

"Joan has been a real asset to the garage and our team here in Lawrence County,"

Transportation Administr-ator Cecil Townsend said. "We've really come to depend on her in so many ways, and I know that she is going to be missed by everyone."

Williams, who was born in Ironton, is a graduate of Coal Grove High School.

She continues to reside in Ironton with her husband, Frank, and attends the 13th Street Baptist Church in Ashland, Ky. Williams is also the proud mother of one, Kim, and grandmother of two, Chris and Alex.

"I'm really going to miss my ODOT family and all of the crew in Lawrence County, but I am looking forward to retirement and spending more time with my family," Williams said.

"I've known Joan for many years, and she has done a fine job for all of us," District 9 Deputy Director John F. Hagen said. "It's really hard to see her leave."