Aged 90, Melba Mebane recently celebrated her retirement after a long career at Dillard’s, an American chain of high-end department stores. She started working for the retail giant in 1956, when she was just 17 years old. She first started as an elevator attendant before being assigned to the cosmetics department, at the heart of the store located in the town of Tyler, Texas. And his fascinating career spanned more than seven decades. It was high time she passed on the baton! “Melba sets the tone for everything, all the expectations, all the customer service qualities that we look for in a luxury experience,” Dillard’s store manager James Saenz told Fox News.
He stressed that it was “incredible” to think of the number of people affected by this 90-year-old lady. “You will never imagine the number of people she has coached, taught and trained to aspire to be more successful! She always passed on all her passion and know-how to the team…” he continues. James often congratulated her for all the life advice she gave to clients and to the team itself. Between the ages of 70 and 80, Melba worked 40 hours a week without ever complaining. It was her son who drove her to work and brought her back.
But, after some health problems, Melba decided to slow down and retire. Arriving at the age of 90, she reluctantly had to say goodbye to her Dillard’s family. But, before leaving, she had to give one final piece of advice to her colleagues: not to focus on their paycheck, but to come to work with a good heart and passion. Of course, the whole team organized a proper retirement party. On this occasion, Melba received the “Beyond excellence” award. Additionally, a plaque with his photo now hangs on the wall of Tyler’s store.
Her manager said, “She’ll be here as long as Dillard’s exists!” “. From its beginnings until today, Melba Mebane leaves a beautiful legacy: its values will always resonate in everyone’s minds. It is certain that his journey is truly exemplary and inspiring.
