after 29 years of service, local woman retires from d.a.’s office

For nearly three decades, Judy Watson has been a fixture in the Fourth Judicial District helping the people of Cocke, Grainger, Jefferson and Sevier counties in both the Department of Human Services and the District Attorney’s office.  To celebrate her years of service and her important work in our area, friends and family gathered Friday at the Sevier County courthouse to honor Watson, who is retiring after 29 years.
Two of her former employers, former Attorney General Al Schmutzer and current Attorney General Jimmy Dunn, were on hand to praise Watson for her years of dedication to not only her job but the people she served.
In addition, Sevier County Mayor Larry Waters presented Watson with a proclamation that made August 20 Judy Watson Day in the county and a certificate of appreciation from the D. A.’s office.
Even though she was the center of attention, Watson wanted everyone to receive credit.
“What’s important is the job the entire staff has done,” said Watson. “The Fourth Judicial District has long been known as one of the best district attorney’s offices in the State of Tennessee. “
The office has grown considerably in her time there. In 1980, there were only 5 full-time staff members; today there are 23. Through her career, Watson did a little bit of everything, including handling child support cases, record keeping, typing search warrants, indictment, and presentments. However, it was the relationships she made that she considers the most important.
“I feel that one of the important parts of my job was contact with the public and other officials,” said Watson. “Setting a tone where our office had a good relationship with the other agencies and people we dealt with on a daily basis. “
Looking forward to retirement, Watson reflected on her years of service and said she is proud not only of her work, but the relationships she’s made.
“I feel honored to have served in the capacity of administrative assistant to the district attorneys in this district and value the many friendships I have made while doing this work.”