Monday night’s meeting of the Dallas County Commission began with the presentation of several retirement plaques.

The first plaque presented on Monday evening was to Mary James, who served 35 years in the Recording Department of the Dallas County Probate Judge’s office as Recording Supervisor.

“She has been a great resource for Dallas County,” said Dallas County Probate Judge Jimmy Nunn. “And I think that all of the attorneys that are here can attest to that.”

All four Dallas County Commissioners – Valerie Reubin, Roy Moore, Larry Nichols and Curtis Williams – followed suit in commending James on 35 years well done.

Former Dallas County Probate Judge Johnny Jones attended Monday night’s commission meeting to wish James a happy retirement.

“Mary [James] did a great job. I can say that from the bottom of my heart,” said Jones. “She had a lot on her shoulders and she handled it well. The lawyers that are here, I think, would attest to that. I know you will be missed and I certainly appreciate what you did for us when I was in office.”

The second employee to receive a retirement plaque Monday evening was Ervin Allen, a 15-year employee of the Dallas County Environmental Services Department.

Allen was commended by all four commissioners for his hard work.

“You are one of the hardest working men that I know,” said Williams. “I appreciate you so much. It brings tears to my eyes to see you go.”

The third and final employee presented with a retirement plaque on Monday evening was Chapman Smith, a 10-year employee of the Dallas County Juvenile Detention Center.

Chapman was also commended by the commission for his years of service.

Dallas County Juvenile Detention Center Director Marcus Hannah thanked Smith for not only his years of hard work but also for his influence on Hannah’s life as a young man.

“I appreciate you, thank you for all you have done,” said Hannah.