What began as a six-month part-time position that turned into a 17-year ministry, comes to an end Wednesday, when Cheryl Thomas retires as the Thrift Store manager at the Regional Interfaith Association (RIFA).

“I’ve enjoyed my time at RIFA,” Cheryl said, “It’s been great, and while I will miss those I’ve worked with, I look forward to the next chapter in my life … church work, gardening, decorating homes and spending more time with family and friends.”

Two volunteers who donate time at RIFA talked about the person and employee when asked about Cheryl.

“The RIFA family is going to really miss one of their employees,” Bennie Denton said, “Cheryl Thomas is retiring and that is going to leave a huge hole to be filled.

“Cheryl, in my opinion, just kept the resale side moving. Most anytime you went in the store, she was busy doing things that most people wouldn’t do … but it just made a huge difference, and RIFA’s yearly sales were amazing.”

Bennie not only volunteered his time at RIFA, he also found time to shop.

“I purchased several items from the store to rework and resale,” Bennie said, “Cheryl was always available to assist me and any other customer that needed more help.

“She would show me items that were broke and say, “You know you can repair that. After it is painted, it will be beautiful.””

Bennie said Cheryl treated any visitor to the store the same.

“What made it easier to purchase items there, was that she was always friendly,” Bennie said, “What I really liked was that she treated all the customers the same.”

Bennie said he believed one of Cheryl’s strong points was she knew if RIFA sold enough 10 cent items – it made dollars.

“She also knew that everyone couldn’t afford to spend dollars but they could spend dimes or quarters,” Bennie said, “To me that is a very strong point when it comes to selling in an environment like RIFA.”

But Bennie said he understands Cheryl’s decision to call it a day.

“I do hate to see her leave the store, but I know that at some time we all want to retire and do other things,” Bennie said, “I think this will be a huge blessing for her to be able to do other things.

“She will not have to worry about all those little things she took pride in, in the thrift store at RIFA.”

Another volunteer, Apple Russell, remembers when she first met Cheryl.

“She welcomed me and thanked me for coming,” Apple said, “She is always friendly even when she is in pain.

“We talked together about her son (Adrian), and I told her about my grandchildren. She often asked about them and about my health.

“She showed sincere concern about me and the other ladies who worked in the warehouse.”

Apple said Cheryl was so helpful to provide what was needed for their work which consisted of sorting and hanging clothing to sell in the thrift store.

“We could always count on her to explain what she needed us to do – the priorities of the day,” Apple said, “Cheryl met us with a smile. I am grateful to have known her. She will be greatly missed!”

(PHOTO: Cheryl Thomas retires as Thrift Store manager at RIFA, Wednesday, Nov. 30)