Clerk of Court honored for lifetime of service

Editor

jevans@pickenssentinel.com

PICKENS COUNTY - Nominating Pickens County Clerk of Court LeJette Gatlin to receive the Order of the Silver Crescent, the state's highest civilian honor, was "one of the easiest things I've ever done," said state Sen. Larry Martin.

Gatlin's family, friends and colleagues were on hand Friday morning at the Courthouse to witness the Pickens County legislative delegation award the honor to Gatlin.

"This award is in recognition for all you have done to better our part of the world over the years," said Gov. Mark Sanford in his letter awarding the Order to Gatlin. "A life well spent is a life that includes others."

Sanford praised Gatlin for her efforts to update the office's computer system and her devotion to many causes, including Relay for Life, the Guardian Ad Litem program and Toys for Tots.

"These and many other noteworthy endeavors have benefitted ... from your wisdom, leadership, enthusiasm and strong support," Sanford said.

Gatlin has served as Pickens County Clerk of Court since 2001. This year, she chose not to seek re-election.

Judge Eddie Wellmaker presided over the ceremony, calling Gatlin "a very special lady whom everybody loves."

Martin called Gatlin "one of our most able public servants in Pickens County."

Thirteenth Circuit Solicitor Bob Ariail asked Martin to read a letter congratulating Gatlin on her lifetime of accomplishments.

"You have made the Pickens County Courthouse safe and productive for everyone," Ariail said in the letter. "On a personal level, you are a friend."

Rep. Davey Hiott said he has known Gatlin and her family all his life.

"You are a great asset to Pickens County," he said.

Rep. B.R. Skelton agreed, calling Gatlin "the essence of a woman" with an outstanding reputation.

"I sometime say I don't think women are equal to men, I think they're superior," Skelton said. "You are a prime example of the superiority of women in politics in Pickens County.

"You simply cannot be replaced," Skelton continued. "(Clerk of Court elect) Pat (Welborn) will replace you, but you cannot be replaced."

Gatlin thanked all of those who helped over the years as she worked in the Clerk of Court's office and as Clerk of Court herself.

"Without their support, I don't think I would have been here for eight years," she said. "I appreciate this. This is a surprise."