Baker County clerk of court celebrates 90th birthday

NEWTON — Baker County Clerk of Court Betty Bush hit a milestone on Friday that most would never expect in a courtroom. Bush was surprised by her friends, family and colleagues on her 90th birthday with a party and hot lunch.

Bush was elected Baker County’s clerk of court in 1987, but she has worked with the county since 1960 when she was deputy clerk of court. Coincidentally, Bush’s surprise party was orchestrated by current Deputy Clerk of Court Stephanie Key who has worked alongside Bush for 15 years. Key said the pair have a close relationship and that she has learned a lot working with Bush.

“Working with her for 15 years, it’s like a mother/daughter relationship,” Key said. “We act just like a mom and daughter, but other than that, she taught me everything I know here at Superior Court so it’s a pleasure and it’s a privilege (to work with her).”

Some of the “mother and daughter” activities between the two include grocery shopping, phone calls throughout the day and car servicing. Key offered a brief anecdote about how, when she was 30, Bush once sat her down to tell Key the story of the “birds and the bees.”

Asked is she was surprised by the party, Bush said, “Oh, yes, I was very surprised. I was surprised last night, too. I had a first birthday night with my 11-year-old great granddaughter.”

At 90 years old, Bush is still the life of the party. She greeted every guests with a warm smile, a hug and a handshake.

“She is a wonderful person,” Key said. “The community loves her. I must say it’s been a privilege working with her for 15 years. I wish her much love and much success.”

Gypsy CrowFile Photo

Gypsy Crow