Ten years ago, Rosie Verslues went from full-time to part-time work at Legends Bank on East McCarty Street. Now she's going to the next level, retiring after 50 years of service.
However, if you talk to Verslues, her plans for her time don't sound anything like what you'd think a typical retiree would be doing.
"It hasn't sunk in yet," Verslues told some of those who came to wish her well at a celebration Tuesday at the bank. "I'm still going to do some public relations work for the bank."
Verslues has been honored for her work raising awareness of breast cancer and raising funds to help fight the disease.
For years, Verslues, who is a breast cancer survivor, has volunteered with the American Cancer Society's Relay for Life. More than 30 years ago, she started a breast cancer survivor support group.
She worked alongside Lorraine Adkins and other community leaders on Wreaths for Heroes, which provides wreaths for 1,600 graves at the Jefferson City National Cemetery.
Verslues volunteers for Operation Bugle Boy, which recognizes and honors veterans, soldiers and first responders.
When asked what it meant for people to come in and wish her well, Verslues said, "It feels pretty awesome."
"The volunteer work has been my life," she said. "I've been blessed in more ways than one, and I still want to give back."
Verslues hopes the next generations will have that spirit of volunteerism that she has.
"I'm the oldest of nine children, and I always wanted to set a good example for my siblings," she said. "Doing volunteer work, going to work every day and being dedicated. I want to set an example for my kids and grandchildren because I've always felt actions speak louder than words."
Legends Bank President Thomas Klebba said what Verslues has meant to the bank is astronomical.
"She may have gone to part-time status 10 years ago, but she doesn't do anything part-time," Klebba said. "We are a community-based bank, and she exemplifies that word, community. It's not just going to work, it's extended to your life. There is no deed too small or too large that she won't take on."
Klebba said Verslues brings energy to all those she meets.
"She's going from scheduled part-time to unscheduled part-time," Klebba said. "You don't come across people like Rosie every day, and we cherish every moment we have with her."