Roy Farmer

Roy Farmer, 65, is retiring from the Gardendale Public Works Department on Oct. 30, after more than 36 years of service to the city. He is the department’s assistant director. His wife has plenty of plans for him following his retirement.



• What is the first position you held with the department?

I was a heavy equipment operator — I drove a garbage truck.



• What other positions have you held with the City of Gardendale?

Besides heavy equipment operator, I was the public works supervisor, construction supervisor and then assistant director.



• Are there any jobs with public works that you haven’t done?

I’ve pretty much done all kinds of street work. I just like it all: asphalt, signing, ditch cleaning, brush pickup.



• It sounds like you’re an outdoors person.

Yes. I was raised in the country. I love to be outside.



• Thirty-six years is a long time. What do you enjoy about working for the city?

I just love the people. There are so many good people here.



• What are your plans after retirement?

I have a honey-do list that’s pretty long. My wife is planning on keeping me busy. Plus, I have a second job that I will keep. I’ve been a janitor at Trussville Middle School for 12 years. I work from 4 to 8 (p.m.) every day.



• Tell me about your family.

My wife’s name is Julia Ann Farmer. We will be married 43 years on Nov. 19. We have two sons and three grandkids.



• What do you enjoy doing in your spare time?

I like to piddle with old cars. And I like to play with my grandkids.



• Were you ever in the military?

I’m a Vietnam veteran.



• Were you in the Army?

Yes. I was drafted. I was in from ’67 to ’69. My job was to haul equipment for the Army.