Mary Isham retired last week after 20 years with the Checotah Post Office. She started her career with USPS Dec 25, 2004.

“I was a stay-at-home mom of four kids until my youngest started school,” Isham said. “I decided then it was time to go to work. Though I had a bachelor’s degree in education, I decided on working with the USPS because my sister was already working for the post office. So I started as a part time flex clerk and within two years I converted to a regular clerk. I’ve always said I’d retire as soon as I was eligible and financially secure. My plans were to retire in 2026 but with the voluntary early retirement offer, I was able to retire this year. My plans are to grow my little business, Mae Mae’s cookies, watch my grandkids and keep working on my marriage of 38 years to my husband.”

Isham stated she won’t miss the early hours and the 6:45 a.m. start time each day but she will miss all her customers and coworkers that were her 2nd family for 20 years. Several coworkers were in tears as Isham opened up her going away gifts.

“We all had a good working relationship. Love my coworkers! Now on to the next chapter!”