Theron Anderson, director of AgSouth Farm Credit’s Financially-Related Services, announced that Deidre Nelson retired from the association as of Dec. 31, 2017. Nelson, loan originator manager, retired after 17 years of service to AgSouth.

Anderson said: “Working with Deidre has been a true joy. For 17 years she has given me great advice, excellent counsel and laughter! She is passionate about helping others, whether customers, coworkers or strangers. Her desire to see others succeed is a model to us all. I have seen her work tirelessly behind the scenes for no other reward than helping our younger staff understand how to be better at their jobs.     

“Personally, she has taught me the value of ‘pause and ponder.’ Often when a tough issue was being contemplated, it was this advice from Deidre that not only made the best sense but had the biggest positive impact on the outcome. She has been, and will always be, my friend, and I am going to miss seeing her every day. I don’t know what her second act will be, but I am sure it will involve helping others achieve their dreams, a special talent she has.” 

CEO Pat Calhoun said that Deidre will be missed by AgSouth’s employees and customers alike.

“Before she became manager over the mortgage loan officers, Deidre was a loan originator. In the 7 years she originated loans with AgSouth, she helped nearly 600 families realize their dreams of owning a home, and as manager of the mortgage originators, she subsequently helped thousands more. Deidre was an invaluable part of making our cooperative successful, and we wish her a well-deserved retirement."