A remarkable 90-year-old Dillard’s employee from Texas named Melba Mebane recently announced her retirement after an incredible 74-year career. Her story is made even more incredible by the fact that she never missed a day of work or requested time off due to illness while working for the company.
Elevator Girl to Extraordinary Salesperson.
Melba’s journey started in 1949 when she began working as an elevator girl at Tyler, Texas’ Mayer and Schmidt department store. She attracted the attention of her superiors through hard work and dedication, and was soon promoted to the men’s clothing department.
Triumph of an unmarried mother.
In juggling her career and raising her son Terry as a single mother, Melba’s tenacity and fortitude shone through. She moved to the cosmetics section from the men’s clothing section and stayed there for the rest of her career.
exceedingly far.
Melba put in above and beyond dedication to her work. She took matters into her own hands when it became difficult for her to sell gift baskets to customers. Melba stepped out from behind the desk and started conversing with customers on the sales floor. She sold every basket thanks to her enthusiasm and influencing abilities.
Manufacturers started sending her products like perfume bottles to promote after realizing her exceptional sales talent. Even her pastor jokingly referred to Melba as the “cosmetic bootlegger” because of how much she enjoyed giving away samples to her friends. “.
The Store’s Central Area.
Throughout her long career, Melba’s invaluable contributions were acknowledged by coworkers, managers, and even the Dillard family itself. Her son Terry described how she was regarded as the soul of the business and a shining example of first-rate customer service.
honoring the legacy of Melba.
Her coworkers planned a retirement party in Melba’s honor when she ultimately made the decision to retire due to health concerns. Melba broke down in tears during the event’s speeches, which were incredibly moving. Dillard’s Vice President Drue Methany praised Melba for her selfless service to the community and her exceptional rapport with customers.
Additionally, it was clear that Melba was friends with Mr. and Mrs. Dillard. In her later years, they exempted her from working night shifts and Sundays to show how much they valued her commitment.
James Saez, the store manager at Dillard’s, emphasized how Melba not only mentored and inspired a great number of staff members, but also set the bar for outstanding customer service at the retailer. Melba was given the prestigious “Beyond Excellence” award to honor her illustrious career, and a plaque with her picture now adorns the store’s wall.
A heartfelt farewell.
Ginger Wimbs, Melba’s friend and coworker of 33 years, fondly recalled her as a kind and generous person. Although Melba’s aptitude for selling was admired, her sincere friendship was what people would miss the most. Melba continued to put in 40 hours a week of arduous work even as she grew older. Her son Terry recalled fondly how he used to take her to and from work in dreadful weather, but her resolve was unwavering.
An Example to All.
Online users who were moved by Melba Mebane’s story praised her as an inspiration and a role model for young people and expressed their admiration for her story. Despite the praise, some sympathized with her for never having enough time for herself over the course of her 74-year career. Melba knew what they meant, but she didn’t feel bad about it. She genuinely loved what she did and encouraged those just starting out in business to approach it with dedication, seeing it not just as a job but also as a chance to have a positive impact on the world. She exhorted them to give everything they had to the situation life had placed them in.
Melba Mebane’s 74-year career at Dillard’s is a prime example of true dedication, tenacity, and a passion for service. Her experience serves as a reminder to us all that, regardless of our age, a rewarding and meaningful career is always attainable.
