Mary Ann Petty recently stood before a cheering crowd at the Albany Civic Center. The city gathered on Dec. 18 to honor her historic 53-year career. She started as a teenage clerk and retired as the Director of Administrative Services.
Her journey began in 1972 during a tense era of legal change. A court order forced the City of Albany to integrate its workforce. Consequently, Petty became the first Black female customer service record clerk in the city’s history.
Breaking Barriers in Albany City Government
Petty was only 19 years old when she entered the workforce. Initially, she did not even want the job. She admitted she simply wanted to stay home like many other teenagers. However, officials explained that her hiring was a vital part of a federal court mandate.
This young woman soon realized she was a pioneer for civil rights. She stepped into downtown offices that were previously closed to Black residents. Her presence marked the beginning of a new era for Georgia’s local government.
“I did not know at that time how significant it was, but as time passed, I realized where I was,” Petty recalled.
Overcoming Discrimination During the Desegregation Era
The early years of her career were filled with immense difficulty. Petty faced a workplace that was often cold and hostile. For example, she was forced to eat her lunch in a boiler room. She was treated as an unwanted outsider by many of her peers.
Despite the cruel remarks, Petty chose to stay and excel. She witnessed the slow but steady transformation of her community. Over five decades, she watched the city evolve from a place of exclusion to one of inclusion.
From Teenage Clerk to Administrative Services Director
Petty’s resilience eventually led her to the highest levels of leadership. She moved from filing records to managing essential city operations. Her long tenure proved that consistency can break down even the toughest social barriers.
City Manager Terrell Jacobs called her a true legend during the ceremony. He noted that public service must be a “ministry” to last that long. Petty served the public even when the environment was unkind to her.
A Lasting Legacy for Black Leaders in Georgia
Today, Albany’s government looks very different than it did in 1972. Petty pointed out the many Black leaders now holding positions of authority. She credited the progress to those who stood firm during the hardest times.
As she retires, she encourages the next generation to keep working hard. Her “dash” between her start date and retirement represents a lifetime of progress. She has finally taken her seat after five decades of standing for others.
