The first known photo of Kathy Wise at OCC, taken during the first few weeks of her employment in June, 2000.
I know it’s hard to believe, but the Cemetery’s longtime Administrative Assistant Kathy Wise is officially retiring on Friday, February 27. Kathy has been working steadily behind the scenes at OCC since late June of 2000, through 15 years of remarkable growth and change for both OCC and SMA.
Kathy and I were the first two employees ever hired by the Southern Memorial Association in its 149-year history. She was the organization’s first Administrative Assistant. Although Kathy never sought the spotlight, nearly every Cemetery visitor has either seen her in the office, heard her voice on the telephone, or received a letter or email she typed. She ably managed our office on a daily basis, always with her exceptional customer service skills and calm, careful manner.
Kathy will leave very big shoes to fill, but thankfully she will be spending a few hours with us each week from March 2 through the end of June, working in the office to train her successor and assist with a few special projects. In retirement she plans to spend more time with her princely grandson Grayson (who turns 4 years old this May!!). Please stay tuned for more information about special recognition for Kathy this summer.
—Ted Delaney, Executive Director
