Friends, co-workers and family members came together at Pell City Hall May 19 for Linda Walls’ retirement party.

Walls retired as director of the Community Action Agency in January after 26 years. Walls, who worked with low-income families, said she would miss the job but was also excited about spending more time with her family and grandchildren.

“I enjoyed helping people, and I miss them,” Walls said. “But I don’t miss the work.”

Diane Goodwin, who worked with her, said Walls was a huge help for years.

“I just love her to death,” Goodwin said. “She’s done so much for Pell City — a lot of stuff people don’t even know about.”

Vickie Crowe, a volunteer with the program, agreed and said, “She’s helped a lot of folks.”

Marie Manning, from Jefferson State Community College, said Walls would be missed. “She is a delightful, Southern lady.”

People enjoyed refreshments, mingling and sharing a hug or two with Walls. Mayor Bill Hereford also attended the retirement party and said Walls was invaluable to the community.

“She has helped so many underprivileged people,” Hereford said. “She’s been the key to it all. Linda means so much to all of us.”

Walls received a certificate from Shelby Crawford, CFO of the agency.

“She has been tremendous about getting new programs started,” Crawford said. “She has just been a blessing to this organization and community. That’s the type of person you need in a position like that.”

Walls thanked everyone for coming and said “it warms my heart.”