‘I started working here at 15 – now I’m retiring after 75 years ‘
I started working here at 15 – now I’m retiring after 75 years
I started working here at 15 – For over seven decades, the same friendly face has greeted customers in a small seaside town, now preparing to mark the end of a career that has spanned more than 75 years. Sadie Jefferson, the longtime presence behind the counter at the local pharmacy in Portrush, County Antrim, is set to retire after decades of service in the very same building. Her journey began in 1951, when she was just 15, and she has since become a cherished figure in the community, with bonds that stretch across generations.
Her Early Years in the Pharmacy
Sadie’s initial foray into the world of pharmacy was anything but effortless. At the time, the shop was known as JGW Boggs Medical Hall, and she recalled the challenges of her first job. “The pharmacist was looking for someone to work for him, and it was actually my sister who encouraged me to apply,” she explained. “To tell you the truth, it was quite hard work back then. You had to make up all the medicines, prepare the tablets, and have them ready to go very quickly.”
“The pharmacist was looking for someone to work for him, and it was actually my sister who encouraged me to apply. To tell you the truth, it was quite hard work back then. You had to make up all the medicines, prepare the tablets, and have them ready to go very quickly.”
Despite the demanding nature of her work, Jefferson found her footing and stayed for over 75 years, witnessing the evolution of the pharmacy through multiple ownership changes. From RG Macaulay’s to Herons, Lloyds Pharmacy, and eventually Gordons Chemists, the name above the door has shifted, but her presence has remained unchanged. “I’ve known so many of them since their birth, and now some of them are retiring as well,” she said, highlighting the deep connections she has nurtured over the years.
A Force of Nature in Portrush
Robert Gordon, founder and owner of Gordons Chemist, described Jefferson as “a force of nature,” emphasizing how deeply rooted she is in the town. “Everybody wants to call in here and say hello to Sadie,” he noted. “Even if they aren’t needing anything, Sadie just seems to have this huge following that has just grown and grown over the years.”
Jefferson’s dedication has not gone unnoticed. Kathryn Dobbin, relief pharmacy manager at Gordons Portrush, called it “a huge honour” to work alongside her for more than six years. “Sadie is just a great lady, she has time for everyone, she is so well known to the locals here, and I’m so sad to see her go,” Dobbin added.
“Sadie actually started working in this shop three years before I was even born.”
Jenny Elliott, who has worked on Main Street for about 30 years, echoed similar sentiments. “Sadie was always so pleasant to deal with, always full of fun, such a lovely lady and also just a real character here in Portrush,” she said. Karen McMath, from Jingles Giftshop Portrush, also remarked on the town’s loss. “She is one of the most caring people you could possibly meet,” McMath stated. “Even though she won’t be working, I think we will still see her out and about collecting for charities and keeping busy.”
Legacy of Service and Fundraising
Jefferson’s career has been marked not only by her commitment to the pharmacy but also by her passion for community initiatives. One of her proudest moments was participating in fundraising events, including a daring skydive at the age of 80. “I did a skydive when I was 80, well I did two skydives actually, to raise money for the Northern Ireland Hospice,” she shared. “It was fantastic, just an amazing thing to experience. It’s a bit of a shock to the system when you’re up in the plane looking down.”
“You just need to watch your ankles, because the landing can be a bit tough.”
Her retirement plans are as vibrant as the town she has served. While she may no longer be behind the counter, she intends to keep her hands busy with other pursuits. “I am involved with the heritage group here in Portrush, which is all about promoting the town and preserving its history, so I attend that once every month, which is really enjoyable,” Jefferson said. “I also love gardening, so I will be doing a lot more of that now, and I also love going out for coffee with friends.”
A Career Shaped by People and Purpose
Jefferson attributes her longevity in the pharmacy to the relationships she has built. “I’ve formed lasting connections with countless pharmacists,” she reflected. “But for me, it was always the people—the families in this town that I know span four generations.” Her ability to connect with customers has made the pharmacy a cornerstone of the community, a place where trust and familiarity thrive.
While retiring feels strange after such a long career, Jefferson remains enthusiastic about her future. “I’ve always been a people person, and I’ve learned so much from the diverse individuals I’ve worked with over the years,” she said. “But now, I think it’s time to focus on new adventures.”
The Town’s Reflection on Her Work
The impact of Jefferson’s service is evident in the way the town remembers her. Robert Gordon, who has witnessed her contributions firsthand, highlighted her role as a symbol of the pharmacy’s legacy. “We celebrate milestones here in Gordons. We would throw a little celebration for anyone who has served 25 years with us, but Sadie has been in this shop three times that amount, so it just really is incredible,” he said.
Kathryn Dobbin, who has worked with Jefferson for years, added, “Sadie has been a constant in this place, and her warmth has made the shop feel like a second home to many.” Jenny Elliott and Karen McMath both emphasized how her presence has become synonymous with Main Street’s charm. “She has a way of making everyone feel welcome, no matter how busy things get,” Elliott remarked. “Her kindness and humor have made the pharmacy a highlight of the town’s daily life.”
A Message for the Next Generation
When asked for advice for young people starting their careers, Jefferson offered a simple yet powerful reminder. “If I could give any advice to someone about to begin a new job, it would be to give it 100%,” she said. “Just try your best and make sure you are committed. That’s all I can say.” Her words reflect a philosophy rooted in dedication and passion, qualities that have defined her journey from a teenage employee to a beloved community icon.
As she steps into retirement, the pharmacy in Portrush will undoubtedly feel the absence of her familiar smile and warm greetings. Yet, her legacy is secure, woven into the fabric of the town through her unwavering service and the countless stories she has shared with customers over the years. “It’s been a privilege to work in a place where I’ve seen so much change, but also so much continuity,” Jefferson concluded. “I’m excited to see what the future holds, but I’ll always be grateful for the time I’ve spent here.”