http://www.oatstransit.org/news/franklin-county-celebrates-oats-driver-for-20-years-of-service
October 12, 2011
Judy Mendenhall began her career with OATS in 1991 and says “It is such a joy to provide a much needed service to the ones that need it.”
Of her 20 years driving for OATS, Judy says it has been a rewarding and changing experience, and one she has enjoyed each and every day. She credits the people who ride the bus with her for making the experience such a positive one.
“A lot of stories have been told over the years and a lot of jokes. I have enjoyed all of them. The people that ride the buses have many thimgs to tell us, we just need to listen to what they have to say.”
Judy recalls one gentleman who told her he wanted to ride the bus to the center because his eyesight was not good anymore. Having never had an automobile accident, the rider explained that he wanted to end his driving years keeping his perfect record in tact. Other riders tell Judy they enjoy riding the bus because they get to see places they wouldn’t otherwise get to see.
Judy and her husband Gene, of 39 years, have 3 grown children and 1 grandson. When not driving an OATS bus, Judy enjoys her hobbies of music, sewing and gardening. She says that over the years there have been a wide variety of people who have ridden the bus with her – most from the Washington, MO area – and she has enjoyed them all.
Pat Stanley, Project Manager for OATS’ East Region says “Judy is a very reliable worker and cares for her passengers like family. Her vehicle is always clean, inside and out, and her passengers appreciate that. She is always willing to help out where needed and go that extra mile for OATS. She is an asset to the Franklin County area and we are looking forward to another 20 years with her.”