Sherri Childs and Susan Gabbard have served the people of Geary County for 35 years.

They were among long time Geary County employees honored during the annual Years of Service celebration at the County Office Building on Monday.

Fighting tears, Gabbard, noted this meant a lot to her. Her sister Joni Braden, Manhattan, was a surprise guest. Gabbard also remembered how it began for her with Geary County. “I started out as temporary help and they never asked me to leave so I’m still here. ” Gabbard serves as an Assistant Bookeeper in the County Clerk’s Office.

Childs noted the recognition felt good. “It’s nice to be recognized for sticking it out.” She added she will continue in the job for a few more years.

Other County employees were honored for their years of service ranging from five to 30 years.

They included:

Five years: From the Sheriff’s Department — Clinton Arnold, Reyan Rikoric, Kelly Mann, Kyle Porter, Matthew Tyler, Patricia Wilson, and Aaron Parker Sr.  From the Appraiser’s Office — Debbie McCallister, Public Works– Steven Meyers and Chester Steinfort, Health Department — Tracy Sabo.

Ten years: Sheriff’s Department — Donna Regalado, Scott Wesoloski, Eric St. John, Treasurer’s Office — LouElla Black, Community Corrections — Steven Olson.

Fifteen years: Community Corrections — Vaughn DeGuzman.

Twenty years: Sheriff’s Department — Tony Wolf, Martin Snyder, Jeanette DeMars, Edna Kidwell, Public Works — William Hollis, Darryl Boller, Bradley Champ, Curtis Vannahmen, County Attorney’s Office — Kathryn Swartzentruber, Health Department — Tonette Hammond.

Twenty-five years: Public Works — James “David Harrel.

Thirty-five years — County Clerk’s Office — Susan Gabbard, Treasurer’s Office, Sherri Childs.