Long-Time HR Director Yearwood Retires

Human Resources Director Brenda Yearwood retired this week from the city of Toccoa after 30 years of service.

A reception was held to recognize Yearwood and wish her well on retirement Wednesday at Toccoa City Hall.

She said retirement is bittersweet as she has truly enjoyed working for the city.

“Being here 30 years has been a wonderful experience for me for the most part,” said Yearwood. “Being in HR, there are always ups and downs. The city has experienced a lot of growth and a lot of setbacks over the years. I have seen the best of times. I have seen the worst of times. I can assure you most of them have been the best of times. I cherish every minute I have had here with these employees. We have the best employees in the state of Georgia!”

Yearwood started as a city manager’s secretary in 1986 and moved into Human Resources in 1991 when she was promoted by then city manager Jim Calvin.

She is the only Human Resources Director that the city has had.

Toccoa City Manager Billy Morse said the city truly appreciates her service, adding that seeing so many wish her well is a “true testament” to her service to the city.

Yearwood said a lot has changed over the years and the city has a lot more employees now than in 1991.

She said having employees and former employees come to wish her well has been overwhelming and she appreciates them all very much.

“I have made a statement that the only difference between an HR person and a mother is the number of children she has because these employees are just like my children,” said Yearwood. “I love each and every one of them and each one is special to me in one way or another.”

Taking Yearwood’s position is Jan Crawford, who has worked in the City Manager’s Office as the Executive Assistant to the City Manager.

Morse said that Crawford and Yearwood having been working together to transition Crawford into the office for several weeks now.

“We are excited for Brenda, but also excited that Jan is our new HR director moving forward,” said Morse.

As for Yearwood, she said she and her husband will do some traveling and also work around the house during retirement.