Bronx resident honored for 70 years of commitment to public service

While the workforce has evolved over the last 70 years, Williams-Myrie’s can-do attitude hasn’t faltered.

Heather Fordham and Adolfo Carrion

Nov 17, 2023, 1:39 AM

Updated 324 days ago

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A longtime Bronx resident is the longest-serving city employee and is being honored for her dedication to the world of public service.  
Shirley Williams-Myrie can be found working as an administrative assistant for the New York City Administration for Children’s Services. She accepted her first job as a stenographer for the Department of Welfare at just 18 years old, marking 70 years of public service.  
While the workforce has evolved over the last 70 years, Williams-Myrie’s can-do attitude hasn’t faltered.  
“I enjoy coming to work, I’m bored if I have to stay home,” said Williams-Myrie. “I don’t have any secrets, I like to do challenging things… Positive thinking has a lot to do with it.” 
Williams-Myrie even takes the subway from her Bronx home to the office in Manhattan’s Financial District daily, and when it comes to retirement, she says “maybe next year.”