(1908 – 1986)
For twenty-seven years Mignon Burgess served the people of Alabama. She loved her work and had “a real affection for the Extension staff.” That quote came from Mignon’s letter of retirement. In that notification, she revealed her genuine regret at having to leave a job that brought her satisfaction for so long.
Born in Montgomery, Mignon received her diploma from Sidney Lanier High School in 1927. She then attended Daisy Currie Business College in preparation for her career as a secretary. Her job experience prior to joining Extension included three years working for Burrough Adding Machine Company, four years at the Alabama Journal, and four years at Paramount Public Theaters.
Mrs. Burgess had a short assignment with Extension in 1946, serving for a year and a half as secretary in the Management Services Office. After a short break from work, she returned to the state headquarters office and to that of the Management Services. She worked for such Extension legends as Earl Williams and Robert Horn.
On June 30, 1977, and at the end of 27 years, Mignon retired with glowing praise from co-workers and supervisors alike. Her final evaluation rated her work a perfect 10 — on qualities such as job knowledge, judgment, initiative, cooperation, and dependability. Throughout the years, her job performance was outstanding and very much appreciated.
In tribute to the life and work of this diligent worker, the name Mignon B. Burgess is inscribed on the dedicatory plaque of the Extension Memorial Chapel.
Chapel Plaque Inscription Number: 236
