After nearly 20 years of faithful service, Mineola resident Gay Morrow is “retiring” from her volunteer position at the Grace Community Healthcare Clinic.

Morrow held a vital role assisting patients in finding free or reduced cost medications, insulin or procedures like colonoscopies or mammograms.

“Gay has stood the test of time…. (Her) involvement at the clinic requires persistence and loving kindness as she tries to find resources for our patients,” said clinic director Susan Roach. “She is beloved by staff and patients alike.”

To display their deep appreciation for Morrow and all that she has done, friends, family, current volunteers and previous volunteers came to throw her a sending-off party, which was held on May 29. The party was complete with gifts, a cake, a bouquet of roses, decorations, food and fellowship.

While Morrow is sad to be retiring from her long-held position, the move is a “bittersweet” one as it allows her to spend more time with friends and family.

Morrow plans to go spend “a lot of time” with her new great-grandchild, who is her first; to spend time with her grandchildren; and to spend time in her church activities.

“I’m going to miss them, too,” said Morrow. “(But) I’m gonna stay busy!”