Watch: Verdell “Blue” Smith retires after 45 years with City of Guthrie

Verdell “Blue” Smith has seen and done many things for the City of Guthrie’s Public Works. After 45 years, he will call it a career, again.

Verdell began working for the City on June 3, 1977, as a general laborer before advancing through the ranks. Following 36 years of service, he retired in November 2013 as the Parks and Recreation Superintendent.

Not even six months later, Verdell decided he was not done serving citizens and was re-hired as a part-time employee. To no surprise, he moved right back to the supervisor position.

“I and many others had the privilege to work alongside Verdell during his career,” Public Works Director Tenny Maker said. “Verdell was a leader to our organization, and worked hard every day, hand in hand with his crews.”

Maker added that Verdell’s expectations for the quality of his work were second to none.

“His level of neatness on a job, and his ability to complete the job in a timely manner, were hard to match,” Maker said.

Verdell was honored with a celebration retirement inside the City Council Chambers.