Three Employees Retire After Dedicating More Than 100 Years of Service

The Salvation Army’s work would not be possible without the special individuals who dedicate their lives to serving others. Recently, three loyal and hardworking employees retired after a combined total of 109 years. Maggie Robinson, Jennifer Chester-Love and Ken Brigham have dedicated a life of service to The Salvation Army and are being recognized at a retirement dinner for “doing the most good.”

Maggie Robinson, 72, began working with The Salvation Army in 1972 after meeting Brigadier Gertrude Purdue, a former Memphis Area Commander from 1962-1973. Maggie, who was used to cooking for her four sons, began her career with The Salvation Army first as a cook, then as a dietician. After 30 years, she is retiring from her position as Food Service Manager.

She considered cooking for the clients to be like cooking for her own family. With a great love for people, God and the work of The Salvation Army, Maggie believed her three-meal a day service in the kitchen was her calling. Maggie’s caring personality and strong devotion to her job made her a critical element of The Salvation Army. In fact, her son was so inspired by the work of The Salvation Army he became a Salvation Army officer.

Jennifer Chester-Love, former Child Care Director, also believes it was her calling to work for The Salvation Army. Jennifer was hired by The Salvation Army in 1976 as a kindergarten teacher. She organized activities and field trips and prepared the children for future schooling. Her dedication to her work and the children allowed her to grow professionally, and she became the program director in 1986.

Jennifer says she was often inspired by the environment at The Salvation Army and the ability of the staff to work together as a team. “It was rewarding to be able to help kids grow and reach their goals,” Jennifer explained. “We loved it when former students would bring their own children to us. From the children, to the clients, to the staff, The Salvation Army is one big family.” Jennifer’s passion for serving the community and helping others is still evident as she currently serves as a tutor, a Sunday-school teacher and a resource for the entire community.

The third member of this remarkable group of retirees is Business Manager, Ken Brigham. Ken began his career with The Salvation Army in 1977 as a finance director and was involved with the financial management of the Army’s programs and services for the duration of his career. “My role was to provide support on a financial end to all the programs, including maintenance and food service.”

Ken, 75, worked “behind-the-scenes” of The Salvation Army. His position allowed the dedicated case managers and staff to continue to help those in need. “We made sure to keep the programs running that helped those who were in the most need and didn’t have anywhere else to go. God allowed me to do this work for 32 years, and we’ve seen people’s lives change because of it.” Today, Ken is adjusting to the retired life or as his wife calls it, “a week of Saturdays.” He plans to volunteer throughout his community and will always be considered a valuable asset to The Salvation Army.

We will miss the talent and joy each of these individuals brought to The Salvation Army, and we wish them all the best in the future.

Maggie Robinson

Jennifer Chester-Love

Ken Brigham