The mood was light and festive on the first floor of the courthouse on the afternoon of May 26 as the departments gathered to wish a fond farewell to three long-time public servants from the Clerk of Court office. Chief Deputy Clerk Linda Cockrell, who’s been with the Clerk’s office for over 40 years, and Deputly Clerk Machelle Walker Dowden, who has served for over 35 years, will be retiring at the end of June when current Clerk of Court, Louie Bernard, completes his final term in office. The reception was hosted by the Clerk of Court staff and Sheriff Victor Jones emceed.