Thursday, February 27, 2025
Secretary Michael Watson Pays Tribute to Long-Serving Poll Workers in Celebration at the Mississippi State Capitol
JACKSON, Miss. – Secretary of State Michael Watson paid tribute to eight poll workers who have served Mississippi for over 50 years during a special presentation at the State Capitol on Thursday.
Submitted by their county circuit clerk or election commissioner, each poll worker was presented with a certificate of appreciation acknowledging their longstanding years of public service.
"I am honored to celebrate these individuals for their exemplary years of service to our state, and their dedication to preserving the integrity of our elections," said Secretary Michael Watson. "Far too many times our poll workers are overlooked, yet these men and women are the backbone of the state's elections. I hope all of Mississippi will join me in commending their commitment to service."
To further praise their hard work and devotion to Mississippi elections, Senator Joey Fillingane also recognized these individuals, two of which hail from his home district (District 41), by authoring and presenting Senate Resolution 57 (SR 57) from the Senate floor.
"Election poll workers play a pivotal role in upholding the fabric of democracy through their dedication, resilience and service to their communities. Our election professionals and volunteer poll workers are a shining example of nonpartisan cooperation that puts our democracy and country first," Senator Fillingane opined in SR 57.
The eight Mississippi poll workers who were honored this morning include:
- Colene Cain - 61 years (George County)
- Freddie Byrd Farmer - 60 years (Holmes County)
- Rosie Howze - 57 years (Holmes County)
- Lelia Peters - 55 years (Walthall County)
- Sarah Ratliff - 55 years (Walthall County)
- Della Rose Gilmer - 53 years (Neshoba County)
- Gyrone Kenniel - 52 years (Tallahatchie County)
- Jean Sturgis - 51.5 years (Warren County)
Pictured left to right: Secretary Michael Watson, Ms. Freddie Byrd Farmer, Ms. Rosie Howe, Ms. Jean Sturgis, Ms. Colene Cain, Ms. Sarah Ratliff, Ms. Lelia Peters, and Senator Joey Fillingane
For more information about how to become a poll worker in Mississippi, visit the Poll Worker Portal on our website or contact our Elections Division at 1-800-829-6786 or ElectionsAnswers@sos.ms.gov.
