Glenda Ernest is stepping down after 24 years as Stephens County Probate Court Judge.
Ernest sat down with WNEG News the day she made her announcement, and said she has very mixed emotions about the decision
She said the office has been a family to her over the years.
She said she would miss the people the most, and the joy inherent in the job.
She said that the office also helps people going through very difficult times, and how the staff interacts with those people is an important part of the office.
She said, even though she is leaving, she will offer her help to whoever steps into the position.
In talking with WNEG News, Ernest remembered that, when she ran for Probate Judge after Charles’ retirement, no one ran against her, and she felt that was a tribute to not only her abilities and suitability for the position, but and endorsement of Charles’ knowledge and expertise that she passed on to Ernest. Ernest said that she has run for the office unopposed since taking the position, and said she has always seen that as a vote of confidence from the community.
NOTICE OF INTENT NOT TO SEEK RE-ELECTION IN 2024
I would like to thank the people of Stephens County for allowing me the opportunity to serve as your Probate Judge.
At the end of my term December 31, 2024, I will have served 24 years as your Probate Judge and 40 plus years of service with the county. I now give my notice of intent not to seek re-election in 2024.
It has been an amazing journey, one filled with so many memories and making lifelong friends along the way. I have always stated that this office belongs to the people, and this office is here to serve each and every one. Our office has always wanted the people to know we care about whatever problems they are having, and we want them to be comfortable and feel like they are among friends.
A big thank you to Lamar Smith, former Chief Appraiser, for hiring me to fill a vacant position in his office. In June of 1982, I transferred to the Probate Court to serve under the guidance and direction of Judge Maudaine Charles. Judge Charles was a blessing, a mentor, and she encouraged me to run for the office of Probate Judge upon her retirement.
I would like to thank all the women who worked for me in a part-time position through the years: Diane Whitaker, Cheri Griffin, Theresa Kelley, Joy Banks Robinson, Tara Simmons, and Carolyn McNeal. Thank you ladies, you all had a very special place in this office and in my heart.
When I had the opportunity to hire a second full-time position, I hired Ginger Carter. Ginger had worked for Stephens County for several years, first in the Sheriff’s Office then
transferred to the Probation Office and then in 2017 transferred to the Probate Court. Our office suffered a great loss when Ginger passed in 2020 due to COVID; she was so loved and an asset to this office and our community.
To my current staff, Cindy Simmons, Melinda Quick, and Kathy Underwood, I want to say thank you for your hard work, support and dedication to me, your job, and the people of
Stephens County; we are a team.
Cindy Simmons, my Chief Clerk and right hand, you started this journey with me on January 2, 2001, and you have been by my side since day one. I thank you Cindy for
your devotion, love, support, and the relationship we have developed through the years.
As I embark on the next chapter of my life, I will be taking with me so many memories of the great people of our county. I truly appreciate the support I have received from the citizens, attorneys and elected officials of this county over the years.
I also appreciate the support of fellow Probate Judges of the State of Georgia and a special thank you to Kevin Holder, Executive Director of the Council of Probate Court Judges of Georgia. Mr. Joseph Little, Regional Training and Support Manager with Georgia State Vital Records, and his wonderful staff for always being a phone call away.
This Court works with so many different offices such as: Superior Court Judges, State Court Judge, Juvenile Court Judge, Magistrate Judge, Solicitor, District Attorney’s Office, Sheriff’s Office, Office of Clerk of Court, Tax Assessors, Tax Commissioner’s Office, Coroner, funeral homes, Banks, hospitals, Police Department, Post Office, The Toccoa Record, WNEG Radio, Quick Technology, Stephens County Board of Commissioners
and each county office, I thank you all for such a good working relationship.
The Probate Court crosses paths with so many in the county as we deal with issues from the cradle to the grave and everything in between. All of us working together contributes to the success and reputation of the Stephens County Probate Court.
Again, I thank you for the honor to be serving as your Probate Judge. I hope that each of you will find time this year to stop by our office.
