It’s a smaller group than last year, but the impact is no smaller.

At its regular monthly meeting on Monday night, the Emanuel County Board of Commissioners recognized just 9 employees for milestone service anniversaries ranging from 5 to 30 years.

This is a significant contrast to last year’s cohort of 29. However, the 2025 group exhibits a high level of commitment to county service all the same. Together, they have worked a collective 90 years across various departments and disciplines.

The semi-formal event, inaugurated in 2018 and paused during the pandemic, has quickly become a cherished tradition for county staff, leaders, and employees alike. Designed to celebrate and incentivize employee achievements, the event fosters camaraderie and boosts morale across departments.

The evening began with a catered reception at 6 PM, generously sponsored by Workmate Benefits, featuring heavy hors d’oeuvres. County Administrator Guy Singletary offered a heartfelt blessing before the program commenced at 6:45 PM in the courthouse’s main courtroom, at which time department heads delivered keynote remarks, praising the honorees for their enduring work.

Risa Fortner of the commissioners’ office was the first to be called front and center. She was recognized for 5 years of service. Her day-to-day tasks include but are not limited to shipping and receiving, accounts payable, payroll, and human resources. In his presentation, Singletary colored in her background, explaining that she joined Emanuel County from nearby Johnson County during the COVID-19 pandemic, initially as a temporary fill-in while staff were out sick. That role soon became permanent. He praised Fortner’s versatility and willingness to step in wherever needed, calling her a dependable presence in the day-to-day operations of the county.

Extension Clerk Lynn Henry was honored next for 20 years of service. Extension Agent Savannah Tanner presented the award and emphasized Henry’s importance to the office.

“I often joke with her that she’s the only thing that keeps our office running, but that’s not a joke,” Tanner said. “We are so appreciative of everything she does. I also tell her that she’s got at least 20 more because she can’t go until I go.”

Next, Shaina Ellington of the probate/magistrate court was recognized for 5 years of service. Probate/Magistrate Judge Chase Sherrod presented her award, opening with a lighthearted note that he had been given explicit instructions not to say or do anything embarrassing. He then highlighted Ellington’s experience and institutional knowledge.

“Shaina has worked through four judges now,” Sherrod said. “In just the one year I’ve been here, I can promise you she does a lot of unseen work for this county. I would be lost as your probate and magistrate judge without her.”

The Emanuel County Sheriff’s Office recognized the largest group of honorees with a combined 30 years of service among 3 milestone-receiving employees. Mason Russell and Melissa “Missy” Guerra were both honored for 5 years of service while Trent Kersey was recognized for 20 years.

Kersey was unable to attend the program.

Sheriff Jeff Brewer reflected on the people who keep the office running.

“I was blessed 5 years ago to take the position of sheriff, and I’ve been blessed to find myself surrounded by good people who get the job done with very little supervision,” Brewer said.

About Russell, Brewer noted this marked his second 5-year award with the office and thanked him for helping keep the county running through everything from funerals to vehicle unlocks.

Guerra was praised for her evolving, multifunctional role, which includes managing sex offender crimes, courtroom responsibilities, serving as handler for the office’s electronics canine, and balancing numerous other duties.

Brewer described Kersey, the Emanuel County Institute school resource officer, as someone the office does not hear much from, “and given his role, that’s a good thing,” he said, noting the importance of keeping students and staff safe.

Finally, Brewer acknowledged sheriff’s office retiree Marty Mercer, who was also unable to attend. While Mercer’s service included multiple stints with the county over the years, Brewer emphasized that his contributions were significant and appreciated.

Next, E-911 Coordinator Martha Culbreth was recognized for 30 years of service, making her the longest-serving employee among this year’s honorees. In his introduction, Singletary described Culbreth as “a very important piece to our puzzle,” noting that her career reflects the type of growth and longevity the county hopes to foster. Culbreth served for many years as a dispatcher, supervisor, and assistant director before becoming 911 coordinator approximately 11 or 12 years ago.

“She’s kept the wheels on the track long before that,” Singletary said. He added that while the two often give each other a hard time, they always get back on the same page. “I’m glad to work with her, and I’m pleased to give her this 30-year award.”

Rounding out the program was Jerry Lawson, who was recently retired from the recreation department with 11 years of service. Lawson’s history with county recreation includes multiple stints, dating back to his high school days as a rec worker and years of volunteering while working full-time at the local post office before ultimately returning as a full-time employee during the city-county joint operation of the department. Singletary said Lawson played a key role during the county’s semi-recent transition to full recreation oversight.

“It’s not easy when one party leaves and another comes in,” he said. “There are new people to please and new ideas, and Jerry handled it all, bringing his own unique spin on what recreation should be.” Singletary added that Lawson helped build a strong team and stepped away only when he felt confident the department was ready. “We hope to continue to have him around out there on occasion.”

Looking to 2026

As the program concluded, the Emanuel County Board of Commissioners extended heartfelt gratitude to this year’s retirees and milestone recipients. Their unwavering dedication and commitment ensure that Emanuel County is ready to embrace the future as The Place to Grow.

We encourage you to join us in congratulating these honorees and wishing our retirees a joyful and fulfilling next chapter. Together, we look forward to a prosperous 2026, building on the strong foundation laid by these outstanding individuals.

You can check out the scenes from the program in the event's photo gallery.

The Emanuel County Board of Commissioners governs Emanuel County, focusing on legislative and administrative responsibilities. Comprised of representatives from five districts, the board oversees policies and programs that impact local development, budgeting, and public services. Commissioners work collectively to ensure fiscal responsibility and address community needs, collaborating with other county departments and agencies. They are committed to supporting economic growth, public safety, and community well-being across Emanuel County.

For more information about the commissioners and for the latest from the county government, visit 124 North Main Street in Swainsboro; call 478-237-3881 or follow us on Facebook.

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