The City of Albany celebrated a remarkable milestone on December 18. Mary Ann Petty received recognition for 53 years of dedicated public service. Her career began during a pivotal moment in American history and transformed into a legacy of leadership.
Petty’s journey started when she was just 19 years old. She became Albany’s first Black female customer service record clerk. Later, she rose to the position of director of administrative services. Her story represents resilience, determination, and meaningful change in local government.
Breaking Barriers as Albany’s First Black Female City Employee
Albany hired Petty because the city faced a legal requirement. Desegregation laws forced the integration of the city’s workforce. Her appointment marked a historic turning point for downtown offices. The court-mandated effort aimed to open these spaces to Black employees.
Initially, Petty hesitated about accepting the position. “My first response was, I didn’t want the job, you know, because I’m 19 years old. I wanted to stay home,” she recalled. City officials explained the court order’s importance to her. Only then did she understand why she needed to take the role. “I did not know at that time how significant it was, but as time passed, I realized where I was,” she said.
Facing Discrimination and Hostility in Early Years
Petty’s early days on the job proved extremely difficult. She encountered hostility and discrimination throughout Georgia’s segregated workplace culture. The treatment she received tested her strength daily. However, she refused to let hatred define her career.
She was forced to eat lunch in a boiler room. Cruel remarks from colleagues became routine. Many treated her as an unwelcome outsider. “I realized my first day on the job I wasn’t a welcomed site, I was a sight that was unwelcome,” she said. Despite these painful challenges, she remained committed to her position.
Five Decades of Dedication and Service
Petty stayed with the city for more than 53 years. Her perseverance through hardship became legendary among colleagues. The workplace environment gradually transformed around her. She witnessed firsthand the changes she helped create.
“Through those years, it is wonderful and beautiful, everything has changed, and I have had a magnificent 53 years with the city of Albany,” Petty said. Her words reflected both personal growth and institutional progress. The young woman who once felt unwelcome became a cornerstone of city government. Her dedication inspired countless others in public service.
Community Celebration Honors a Living Legend
More than five decades after her first day, hundreds gathered to honor Petty. The Albany Civic Center hosted the celebration event. Colleagues, city leaders, family members, and friends attended the ceremony. The gathering featured emotional tributes, reflection, and music.
Albany City Manager Terrell Jacobs praised her unwavering commitment. “She’s a legend,” Jacobs said during the ceremony. He recognized the spiritual dimension of her work. “It has to be a ministry of yours to serve people, sometimes when they don’t want to be served,” he added.
Witnessing Transformation in City Leadership
Petty observed dramatic changes in Albany’s government over the decades. The diversity now present in leadership positions once seemed impossible. Black officials now hold positions of authority throughout the city. This transformation represented the fruit of her pioneering efforts.
She emphasized how different today’s reality looks from 1972. “In 1972, you wouldn’t have seen,” many of the Black leaders currently in power, she noted. Her presence opened doors for future generations. The workplace she entered alone now reflects the community it serves.
Passing the Torch to Future Generations
As the ceremony concluded, Petty shared final words of encouragement. She addressed those who would continue her work. Her message carried the weight of five decades of experience. She urged them to maintain their commitment despite challenges.
“Continue to stand,” she told the audience with conviction. Her reference to “the end of the dash” reflected on life’s journey. “I’m taking my seat for you,” she concluded. These words passed responsibility to the next generation of public servants.
