Congratulations to Cherry Owens, a nursing assistant and transporter in the Recovery Room, who recently retired after 43 years at North Mississippi Medical Center.

A Chickasaw County native, Cherry joined the NMMC staff in August 1979 as a technician with Environmental Services. She started out cleaning rooms and was promoted to supervisor and then team leader. She was also responsible for cleaning carpets and waxing tile floors during her time in that department.

After 15 years, Cherry transferred to Surgical Services, where she spent the remainder of her career. She served as a nursing assistant, transported patients, ordered supplies and assisted in Short Stay Surgery. Her last day was Dec. 30.

“I got to meet a lot of people—I met somebody new every day,” Cherry says. “I’ve learned a lot. I liked taking care of people and helping visitors find their way.”

In retirement, Cherry looks forward to spending more time with family, catching up on rest and traveling some. She has four sons – Devaughn (wife La-Kesha) Weatherspoon of Plantersville; and Michael, Cruz and Xavier Owens, all of Tupelo. She has nine grandchildren, including one--Crustaveous “G” Owens—who lives with her, and one great-grandchild.

“I’ve got a lot of friends here,” Cherry says about leaving NMMC, “but it’s time to let the young people have it.”