Longtime figure at Coushatta High and then Red River High, Joy Russell has retired.  There was a reception at school last week, complete with retirement cake and a few tears.  Over this past weekend Russell published her story of service to the school and children of Red River Parish.

In December of 1999, I was working at Kwik Pantry as a cashier. It was Christmas time and I had to work. Leaving my babies at home on Christmas Day was not an easy thing to do! While working that day, I prayed! I asked the Lord if He saw fit, could He give me a job where I could be off on holidays with my babies? HE DID! I went to work as a secretary at RRHS in January of 2000. What a Blessing! Over the years, I have come contact with a lot of people and a lot of people’s children. I have gotten to know people that I will forever have a bond with because of being MS. RUSSELL! 

When I felt like it was time for me to move on, I once again prayed! This time, I asked the Lord if it was time for me to move, could He present it to me? And once again, God did exactly what He said He would do if we just ask! God sent me another opportunity to serve the residents of Red River Parish. 
Thanks to all of my Coworkers at RRHS for putting up we me. Thanks for helping me raise my children. Thanks to the parents for letting me help raise their children. I have and forever will be blessed that I had the opportunity to serve you as your Secretary.