After nearly 18 years of faithful service at the Middleburg Bank, Ethel Gibson began her well-deserved retirement on January 31.

Gibson began her career in 1987 by processing in-coming mail, said Branch Manager Debbie McDaniel and co-worker Thelma Furr. By the early 1990s Gibson moved up – literally – to the main floor and became a customer service representative "serving the clients of Middleburg, which she does really well," said McDaniel.

"It's a great job and great people to work with," said Gibson. "I enjoy helping people with their problems – banking problems."

Furr added that Gibson was a real asset at the bank, always offering a warm smile and cheerful disposition.

"She brings dedication, pride in her work, caring for her coworkers and a lot of support to the institution," said Furr, who choked back tears and expressed how much she will miss Gibson.

The beloved banker has agreed to stay on in a part-time capacity, but "…I'll miss seeing the people who come in on the days I'm not here," said Gibson, "I've been here so long that I think of many customers as friends."

Customers and community members stopped by the Middleburg Bank on January 26 to wish Gibson well during a celebratory open house. Following the workday, co-workers, family and friends organized a more formal send-off, catered by the Backstreet Cafe with flowers by Country Way.

Gibson said the outpouring of emotion and thoughtfulness was overwhelming and greatly appreciated. She noted that her retirement decision stems from the desire to have more time for her children, her grandchildren and herself.

"I had a clock that counted down to age 65 for retirement – and it got to zero two years ago," said Gibson, "but it just didn't feel like the right time then. Now it's the right time."

Grateful that Gibson will still be serving her faithful clients even after her official retirement, McDaniel and Furr quoted what they consider to be Gibson's motto: "It'll be all right."