Bonham -- Friends and co-workers filled the room December 19 to honor five retirees for their dedication and determination that, when added up, resulted in well over a century of service to Fannin County.

Fannin County Judge Spanky Carter presided over the retirement reception for Emery Banker, Justice of the Peace, Pct.#3 (30 years), Craig Nichols, Constable, Pct.1 (26 years), Joe Dale, Justice of the Peace, Pct.#1 (21 years), Elaine Ashlock, Voter Registration Clerk (17 years), and Mike Towery, Fannin County Treasurer (12 years). Together, that amounts to 106 years of experience and savvy that will be sorely missed by county residents.

(L-R) Fannin County Judge Spanky Carter, Joe C. Dale, Emory Banker, Elaine Ashlock, Craig Nichols and Mike Towery.

The retirement reception, organized by Kim Richards, Sherry Zandars, April Gibbs, Christie Haggard, Peggy Hix and Angie Kuhn, was more than a chance for friends and co-workers to wish the five retirees all the best; it was also an opportunity to pause and say "thank you" to five citizens who have made their county better because of their significant contributions. 

Judge Carter and Mike Towery

Judge Carter and Elaine Ashlock

Judge Carter and Joe C. Dale

Judge Carter and Craig Nichols

Judge Carter and Emory Banker

Fannin County Sheriff Donnie Foster thanks Joe C. Dale for tireless service and cooperation.

(L-R) Donna Carter, Elaine Ashlock, Martha Cooper and Polly Gilbert visit at the reception.

On behalf of the citizens of Honey Grove, Honey Grove Mayor Claude Caffee thanks Emory Banker. "Whatever time of day, he's there," remarked Mayor Caffee.

(L-R) Joe C. Dale, Emory Banker, Elaine Ashlock, Craig Nichols and Mike Towery.