Kathy Lunsford, a Beacon of Dedication and Mentorship, Celebrates 50 Years at Southern GF

Hardworking and dedicated are two words that can easily be used to describe Kathy Lunsford, a Quality Control Manager at Southern GF (SGF). In an era where job loyalty seems to be a rare gem, Lunsford proves herself an admirable example of unwavering commitment and dedication.

With her recent celebration of a remarkable 50th anniversary at SGF, a commercial door, frames and hardware company, Lunsford’s story is one of perseverance, loyalty and the pursuit of excellence. Her journey serves as an inspiration to both her colleagues and future generations of employees.

Lunsford began working at SGF

By Zoey Schlueter

at the ripe age of 17, being one of the longest-committed members of the company. Having worked at the company for the past five decades, Lunsford has witnessed firsthand a great deal of the company’s history and filled many roles throughout her time.

“When she first started, Kathy worked in the typing pool; then she was promoted to estimating the window portion of the jobs,” said Clay Bittinger, the finance manager for SGF who has worked at the company for seven years.

“A few years after that, she started working directly for the president of the company, who taught her everything there was to know about commercial door hardware,” said Bittinger. “She stayed in that role for many years and became the go-to person in the company for anything related to door hardware.

“In the last few years, her role has shifted slightly. Kathy now helps teach all new hires about the door and hardware industry, she still estimates the hardware portion of all large jobs that SGF bids and she attends many job site meetings to help our customers design the keying system that they need,” said Bittinger.

Lunsford’s mentorship

As a veteran employee at the company, Lunsford never fails to kindly lend guidance to newer employees. When Bittinger first arrived at SGF, Lunsford worked to acclimate Bittinger into the accounting department, even though she had no specific role in accounting herself.

“As the young guy right out of college, having someone excited to help you so you could succeed was inspiring,” said Bittinger.

Additionally, this example of Lunsford’s help and care for others is not a one-time thing. New employees consistently have great experiences with Lunsford at SGF because she never fails to be a supportive mentor.

Jennifer Barber, an employee who has worked at SGF for just over seven weeks, has already been impacted by Lunsford acting as a role model. Barber’s experience with Lunsford adds to the overwhelming evidence of the wholesome impact she has as a mentor to newer em- ployees in the company.

“Kathy is very knowledgeable and beyond helpful,” said Barber. She has taught me so much in the short time I’ve been at SGF. If any of us have questions, she’s right there to help. Her work ethic is truly an inspiration.”

Additionally, Lunsford’s selfless ways add to the familial environment and culture at the company. According to her coworkers, Lunsford is definitely “the office mom,” constantly keeping her coworkers in line, providing wisdom to newer employees and keeping calm in high-stress environments.

Anyone who has the privilege of working with Lunsford will appreciate her drive to learn and help in the workplace.

Aside from work, Lunsford is happily married to her high school sweetheart Mark and has two grandchildren whom she proudly talks about on Monday mornings after the weekend.

Join Southern GF and the Peachtree Corners community in celebrating Lunsford and all she has accomplished. ■