All smiles and in good spirit, Gladys Tinsley celebrated retirement and 30 years of working at Chilton Medical Center on Thursday.

Human Resources and Food Services decided to acknowledge Tinsley during Nutrition Week with roses, cards and a cake as she ate lunch with her co-workers.

“Mrs. Gladys was a fixture and the nucleus,” said Joann Bartlett, human resources director. “She’s been a dedicated employee and family member, and we wanted to acknowledge her service and show our appreciation.”

Tinsley began working at Chilton Medical Center in October 1984, where she began as a dishwasher and retired as head cook.

“Back in the day, everybody loved my potato soup,” said Tinsley. “My best experience is making the chicken and dressing.”

Tinsley’s co-workers also expressed their appreciation and love for her. Jessica Jones, cook, said she had a laugh that echoed through the kitchen.

“Mrs. Gladys contributed not only with her cooking skills, but in nature,” said Bartlett. “She is family and will always be family.

Tinsley talked about being afraid her first day on the job, but is now one of the longest employed administrators at Chilton Medical Center. Now a mother of two and a grandmother of 10, Tinsley will be sitting home taking care of her family in retirement.

“Feels pretty good to retire,” she said Thursday.