LOUISVILLE, Ky. (WHAS11) – September 18 marked a major milestone for a local crossing guard. Naomi Thomas now has 50 years on the job. When she started the gig in 1968, LBJ was president, a movie ticket cost about a buck 30, and a gallon of gas would set you back about 34 cents.
A lot has changed since then, but her passion for her profession has not. A crew of friends and co-workers surprised her early Tuesday morning on the anniversary of her accomplishment.
Courtesy: Naomi Thomas
They were ready to meet her at her stop on Smyrna and Outer Loop with balloons and fifty roses, and she loved every second of it.
It’s a job Thomas never intended to have. The teacher's wife and mom of two boys didn't plan to work outside the home, but life had other plans. A crossing guard opening at Okolona Elementary and a lot of convincing later gave Thomas a new gig.
Courtesy: Naomi Thomas
"It just worked into our schedule just perfect, and here I am,” Thomas said.
In all her glory, at 87-years-old, she’s still going strong.
"It's my therapy. I will say that. It gets me up and gets me going,” Thomas said.
As for her secrets to success, she's got a few to share.
Courtesy: Naomi Thomas
"When the going gets tough, the tough get going. That's my theory. I have worked when I didn't feel like it. Pick something that you enjoy and make it enjoyable. Have some fun with it as you go through life,” Thomas said.
Her corner office with a view provides a front row seat to a lot of lives
"Tied a lot of shoes, zipped up coats, wiped the tears, listened to their stories, give them a hug, give them lunch money,” Thomas said.
Courtesy: Naomi Thomas
The road warrior wouldn't have it any other way.
"People, I like people,” Thomas said.
Thomas said she's considered retiring but has no plans to as of right now. As far as LMPD knows, she's the longest-serving crossing guard on record.
►Contact reporter Sara Wagner at swagner@WHAS11.com. Follow her on Twitter (@WHAS11Sara) and Facebook.
►Make it easy to keep up-to-date with more stories like this. Download the WHAS11 News app now.
Have a news tip? Email assign@whas11.com, visit our Facebook page or Twitter feed.