On Tuesday, Troup County-Valley Area Red Cross volunteers, along with workers from the blood services center in Columbus, had their cake before the chapter’s monthly blood drive at First United Methodist Church.
It was all to celebrate longtime employee Cleo Gates, who turns 79 on Saturday.
“I wasn’t even paying attention” when Red Cross staff pulled out a birthday cake, said Gates, who definitely was surprised with her party.
“I didn’t know it was for me,” she said.
Gates has worked for the Red Cross for 22 years through an employment program for senior citizens called Experience Works. Along with taking care of the registration table and canteen at monthly blood drives, she coordinates volunteers and takes care of other records in the Red Cross chapter office.
Along with her Red Cross work, she also volunteers. She’s a member of the Continental Society and holds several offices at her church, First Baptist Church on Fannin Street.
“I like to stay busy and not sit around,” she said. “I like everyone (at the Red Cross) and everyone there likes me.”
Gates said she hopes to continue her work and recommends other seniors “keep moving” as well.
Red Cross staff members from Columbus were happy to share in the celebration with Gates and local Red Cross volunteers and staff.
“We’re just grateful to have her,” said Steve Tennant, director of blood services.
Pat Smith is a longtime administrative assistant for the Red Cross and has worked with Gates for years.
“She’s just a precious lady,” Smith said. “She’s efficient and dedicated. She never complains about anything. I don’t know that I’ve met anyone else like her.”
Jennifer Shrader may be reached at jshrader@ lagrangenews.com or at (706) 884-7311, Ext. 236.
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