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Johnny Byrge lauded by friends, family and co-workers Thursday morning at La Follette City Hall
A lot of members of the Byrge family were in attendance Thursday at the celebration of retiring city employee Johnny Byrge. Left to right are Laura Byrge holding Emmy Mundy, Jessica Housley, Emily Mundy, Hannah Chambers and Johnny Byrge. On the front row are Nora Housley, Azlinn Housley, Sadie Housley and Jamie Arnold.
LAFOLLETTE, TN (WLAF)- A full house of well wishers was on hand Thursday morning to bid Johnny Byrge goodbye. After 40 years with the City of La Follette, half of those as the director of parks and recreation, Byrge has called it a career.
Byrge’s last official day was Friday, and he was celebrated yesterday. WLAF’s Charlotte Underwood shares her story on Byrge HERE.
WLAF’s Charlie Hutson shares his photo gallery HERE.
Here’s the skinny on Johnny from friends and co-workers.
Chris Smith: “Who has done more for the City of La Follette? He’s brought more gyms under the parks and recreation umbrella along with the splash park, soccer fields, new tennis and pickle ball courts. There’s more. The new building that will house a batting cage and golf simulator is coming along.”
Stan Foust: “It’s been an honor working with you. I know your family. Y’all have been blessings.”
Wayne Kitts: “I’ve known Johnny and Laura and have watched their girls grow up. I appreciate all he’s done for our city. We appreciate you and your family.”
Shirley Rogers: “He’s a dear friend, and he has worn several different caps for many years. Johnny and Laura were there in times of family crisis for me and my family. Johnny and Laura have served the community, their church and families in many ways. Johnny lives his Christian life by example. He’s done a litany of things as parks and recreation director and during his 24 years on the school board.”
John Green: “He hired me 16 years ago at parks and recreation, and he’s a great guy. He’ll work with you, and if you try to do your job, you’ve got it made. He’s a great person and will help anyone who wants to help themselves. He’s only done one thing bad; retire.”
Johnny Morris: “He’s the best boss you could have. Just in the two years I’ve been helping with the flea market, he’s put in new restrooms, a concession stand and a new stage.”
Cliff Jennings: “It’s been an honor for me to know Johnny, and I’ve known him since he was a teenager. We met on the campaign trail with both of us campaigning for J.T. Leach for road superintendent. He’s been a dear friend through the good times and the bad, and I’ve put him through it. But he’s stuck with me. I’ve been there with his family too from when they’ve been married and buried.”
Johnny Byrge: “I appreciate the kind words. It’s been an honor and a privilege to work in the City. There are some folks who retire mad from the City, and I’m leaving on a good note. I’d like to recognize my staff and thank my family. I’ve had a lot of support. Everyone’s worked well with me. I’ve seen hundreds of kids come through our programs. Butch (Hatfield) and other predecessors laid the ground work for what we’ve been able to accomplish. We have four gyms, all the parks; a true team effort. There’s sadness and joy on this day. It sure does go by quick.”
(WLAF NEWS PUBLISHED – 09/06/2024-6AM-PHOTOS COURTESY OF WLAF’S CHARLIE HUTSON)
Johnnie is an amazing man and has always been front and center when it comes to helping and advancing our children. He has always supported the Campbell Culture Coalition with our many children programs throughout the years. He has been a tremendous asset to LaFollette and the entire community.