Dumetra Person making retirement plans

Dumetra Pearson, head teller at the Heritage Bank, Caraway Branch, will be retiring after 22 years at the bank. A reception is planned in her honor from 2-4 p.m. Wednesday, July 29, at the Heritage, Caraway Branch.

Pearson said going to work at the then Caraway Bank was a good decision for her. She had worked 15 years at Caraway Manufacturing when she had the opportunity to go to work at the bank.

"I was not sure when Debbie Taylor (vice president and branch manager) first called me about working at the bank," Pearson said. "She told me to think about it and let her know. After I thought about it I decided to give it a try and 22 years later I am glad I did."

She took several banking courses at Arkansas State University.

"I made it through and discovered one is never too old to learn," she said.

Most of the years of her banking she has worked under the supervision of Taylor.

"I couldn't have asked for better people to work for," Person said. "Debbie and Steve May have both been wonderful. They have helped me through some difficult times."

Pearson has seen a lot of changes in banking.

"Equipment has been updated and I think we are on the best system ever now," she said. "I have always enjoyed serving our customers. I will miss my co-workers and my customers. I am excited about retirement but a little sad at the same time."

She said she wants to retire while she feels like enjoying her time. Pearson has undergone two heart surgeries and a gallbladder surgery over the last 10 years.

When asked what her retirement plans include, she was quick to answer, "Whatever I want to. If I have $1 for gas, I'm going to be going somewhere."

Pearson's husband, Darrell, has been retired for six years.

"We have a small camper and we plan to hook up and go," she said.

They have six grandchildren and six great-grandchildren.

"I do want to thank my customers for being my customers through the years," she said. "I have enjoyed working with them."