Historic Downtown Post Office will never be the same without Debbie McCullough

By Karen Thompson

August 18, 2021

Debbie McCullough, will say farewell at 1:30 p.m., Wednesday, August 25 on the steps of the historic Post Office.

Fernandina Beach will say farewell to one of downtown’s most popular people, Debbie McCullough, at 1:30 p.m., Wednesday, August 25 on the steps of the historic Post Office where she has worked for 28 years.

Debbie grew up in Ohio. She started her career with the U.S. Post Office in 1979, first as a rural carrier, then as a clerk. She left work for ten years to raise her three children.

Over the years at the Centre Street Post Office, Debbie, who commutes from Hilliard each day, has drawn many fans. Her favorite part of her job is her “customers who are like family.” She also loves working in an exceptionally beautiful, historic building.

Debbie has had a few famous customers; the most noteworthy were John Travolta and Selma Hayek who were in town filming the movie “Lonely Hearts” and James Gandolfini better known as Tony Soprano.

In her much-deserved retirement she wants to visit the National Parks. Her favorite pastimes are camping and hiking. She will also enjoy spending more time with her five grandchildren.

When asked what she will miss the most, she said her customers. And the feeling is mutual. Here are a just a few of the notes she has received.

*“I will miss her. We chatted about my mom, who retired from the Post Office at the age of 80. I drove from the south end of the island to downtown just because she’s so awesome.”

*“I used to work downtown and took mail to her every day. I took my children to see her. She’s the sweetest lady and deserves to retire but she will be missed by many.”

*“I said years ago that they should build a statue of Deb outside the Post Office holding a priority mail box. She’s one of the nicest people I’ve ever met.”

Others describe her as the glue of the downtown Post Office, always eager to help with a smile and pleasant attitude, a wonderful part of our community.

I’d like to share one more meaningful testimony. “Deb is an awesome lady. From boot camp to 2 tours in Afghanistan she helped me send hundreds of boxes to my son who was in the Marines. Thanks for your great service Deb.”

The August 25 farewell is open to all. Please bring cards, signs and balloons. For further information, email Emily Carmain at Emily@noteworthyediting.com.