SANFORD, NC - Lee County Schools proudly honored 36 dedicated employees during the district's annual Retirement Banquet last week, recognizing a remarkable group of educators and staff members whose collective service spans hundreds of years.
These retirees represent schools and departments across the district and have each played an important role in shaping the lives of students, supporting families, and strengthening the Lee County community. Through their commitment, compassion, and professionalism, they have left a lasting legacy that will continue to influence Lee County Schools for years to come.
Throughout their careers, these employees have served in a variety of roles. From teachers to child nutrition staff and maintenance staff to district human resources, these retirees have touched nearly every area within Lee County Schools and provided their expertise to ensure that students and colleagues have what they need to thrive. While their responsibilities varied, they shared a common purpose: ensuring opportunities for students and doing what is best to support their success.
During the Retirement Banquet, colleagues and family members gathered to celebrate the accomplishments and contributions of this distinguished group. Their years of service reflect a deep commitment to public education and a passion for making a difference in the lives of children.
In just one example of a retiree’s profound impact in the district, Executive Director of Human Resources, Patricia Coldren, highlighted the 38 years of service of Ruth Ellis, who has served as the Certified Specialist ensuring proper teacher credentialing and licensure for nearly four decades. Coldren showed the group the hiring document from when she was hired as a teacher in the district, which included a signature of approval from Ellis, who has played a part in hiring every teacher who has come through one of the district’s campuses since the late 1980’s.
“Each of these individuals has made a meaningful impact on our district,” said Superintendent Dr. Chris Dossenbach. “Their dedication to our students and unwavering commitment to excellence have helped make each of our schools stronger. We are deeply grateful for their service and wish them the very best in retirement.”
Lee County Schools invites the community to view photos from the Retirement Banquet on the district’s official Facebook page and join in congratulating these exceptional employees on this well-earned milestone.
The 2026 Lee County Schools retirees are:
Melissa Douglas (B.T. Bullock Elementary)
Ann McAllister-Wallace (Broadway Elementary)
Hollis Andersen (Deep River Elementary)
Jill Britt (Deep River Elementary)
Wanda Coggins (Deep River Elementary)
Debra Groce (Deep River Elementary)
Electra Johnson (Deep River Elementary)
Margie Reives (Deep River Elementary)
Lori Tillett (Deep River Elementary)
Sarah Dunn (Greenwood Elementary)
Valerie Davenport (J. Glenn Edwards & Tramway Elementary)
Melanie Altman (Tramway Elementary)
Julie Bowlin (Tramway Elementary)
Judy Coffer (Tramway Elementary)
Robin Gatten (W.B. Wicker Elementary)
Carla Bailey (East Lee Middle)
Margaret Flowers (East Lee Middle)
Mara Schuster (SanLee Middle)
Sondra Shover (West Lee Middle)
Jeffrey Coggins (Lee County High)
Ronnie Coley (Lee County High)
Scott Gunnett (Lee County High)
William Mulligan (Lee County High)
Martin Bryant (Southern Lee High)
Paola Gensollen (Southern Lee High)
LTC. Ernest McIntyre (Southern Lee High)
Kenneth Page (Southern Lee High)
Ernest Purnsley (Southern Lee High)
Malissa Anderson-Cooper (Floyd L. Knight Center)
Mary Foushee (Floyd L. Knight Center)
Tina Lewis (Floyd L. Knight Center)
Beverly Corley (Child Nutrition)
Marcus Williams (Technology)
Glenn Badders (Maintenance)
Ruth Ellis (Central Office)
Rebecca Maddox (Central Office)