A Well Deserved Retirement!

23 Years of Service at Rae-Ann Geneva

John Griffths, Owner, Rae-Ann, with Pat Bridgens

In 1998 Pat Bridgens was hired as an evening cook at Rae-Ann Geneva. In her own words, she stated she had no idea what to expect from this new job. Little did she know that she’d still be working there in 2021!

When hired, she immediately loved being with the residents. She enjoyed seeing how much they loved the meals and how appreciative they were. Of course, Pat gave special attention to the presentation of all the meals being served. She just loved the environment of being on the team in the kitchen and felt welcomed right away.

Throughout the years, Pat has done some of the cooking, been a dietary aide and basically works any shift or any position that is needed. She is truly dedicated.

She is pictured here with owner, John Griffiths, last July as they both celebrate their birthday on the same day. (Although she says she is a little “ahead of him.”) Recently, she did announce her retirement on August 31, 2021. When asked if she had thought about it earlier, she said she could never have left last year during the Covid crisis. With the residents being served their meals in their rooms, she knew they looked forward to seeing the dietary staff as much as she looked forward to seeing them. She said it actually gave her a chance for some real nice one on one visits, which brightened their day. One of the best feelings was when they all returned to the dining room and the joy on their faces when the door was opened.

She is leaving behind some great memories and all the stories of her hard word, dedication and kindness towards everyone. Her plans are to enjoy not being on a schedule and to go antique shopping.

We thank Pat for all her years at Rae-Ann send her all our best wishes!!!