Popular postmistress Margaret Willis is taking well-earned retirement after 46 years at the helm of Annaghmore Post Office.
In January 1980, Margaret and husband, Thomas, took over Annaghmore Post Office with a small shop. Margaret concentrated on the Post Office and Thomas focussed on the retail side.
Later, in 2006, they rebuilt the premises nearby as they needed modern new premises and they wanted to greatly increase the retail size of the business. Their son, Andrew, became a partner with the business at that time.
The area that they serve has grown as more homes have been built in the area. With no banks nearby it is an essential place for people to do their everyday banking.
Since the first lockdown Margaret has spent less time serving customers but had still been doing the admin and accounts.
Daughter-in-law, Gillian, has been working in the business, which allowed them to maintain vital Post Office services to the community.
Margaret and Thomas’ son, Andrew became the postmaster this week. With his wife, Gillian, they are now running the business at 2 Derrycoose Road.
Andrew Willis, Margaret Willis & Gillian Willis
Annaghmore Postmistress, Margaret Willis, said: “I had worked in an office before, and I enjoyed working with numbers, so it worked well being in the Post Office, and Thomas enjoyed running the shop. The best thing about being a postmistress is the people that you meet. This is a small community so we know people well.”
Margaret has been looking forward to her retirement and being able to go at a slower pace, and with more time to enjoy meeting up with friends and for Church activities.
Post Office Area Manager, Timmy Grant, said: “I want to sincerely thank Margaret for her very long and loyal service as postmistress for Annaghmore and I want to wish her a very well-earned retirement. With husband, Thomas, they have really improved their business by building bigger, better, premises.
Timmy Grant Post Office Area Manager & Margaret Willis
