Beaufort Memorial Honors 190 at Employee Service Awards

Beaufort Memorial celebrated the service and dedication of nearly 200 employees during its 2025 Employee Service Awards held on Oct. 2. In total, the nonprofit healthcare system honored 190 team members, recognizing milestone anniversaries ranging from 5 to 45 years of service. Combined, these employees represent 1,985 collective years of commitment to the Beaufort Memorial mission and the delivery of high quality, compassionate healthcare.

Key milestones include:

• 5 years – 92 employees
• 10 years – 52 employees
• 15 years – 13 employees
• 20 years – 16 employees
• 25 years – 11 employees
• 30 years – 1 employee
• 35 years – 4 employees
• 45 years – 1 employee

Christine Smith, a central transporter at the hospital’s main campus in Beaufort, received a standing ovation for her 45 years of service. Beaufort Memorial President and CEO Russell Baxley applauded Smith’s dedication throughout her tenure, comparing her to the familiar and iconic live oaks of the Lowcountry:

“Rock solid, sturdy, dependable, everlasting.”

Also receiving milestone service achievements and standing ovations were: 

• Deborah Cofer, cath lab technician (35 years)
• Sharon Simmons, clinical analyst (35 years)
• Juanita Singleton-Murray, RN, MSN, psychiatric nurse (35 years)
• Linda Arp, respiratory care practitioner (30 years)

Milagros Calderon, financial accounts specialist, was not present at the event, but was recognized for 35 years with Beaufort Memorial as well. Baxley emphasized the beauty of long-term commitment after recognizing employee service at the reception, held at the Port Royal Sound Foundation Pavilion in Okatie.

“Grow where your feet are planted,” he said. “Your commitment shines through, and we thank you for that.”