evelyn.wall@suffolknewsherald.com

Strength from God and her efficiency, trustworthiness and love for fellow man are among the chief characteristics that recently earned Eula Williams’ recognition as the city’s Employee of the Quarter.

Williams, deputy clerk of Suffolk Circuit Court, has worked in the office for more than 29 years. Dozens of friends, relatives and co-workers packed the Suffolk City Council meeting last Wednesday to see Williams – who many know as the Purple Lady – presented with an award plaque that her superior called &uot;well deserved.&uot;

Suffolk Circuit Court Clerk Randolph Carter Jr. praised Williams, saying she has built up a following of loyal customers during her years of service. He described Williams as the face of his department – the first person people when they enter his office in the Godwin Courts Building.

&uot;I thank God for her. She’s such a beam of sunshine and helps everybody in there,&uot; Carter said. &uot;She has respect for her co-workers and she has my respect.

&uot;She’s taken a lot of other lawyers under her wing and a lot of lawyers, if they were here tonight, would repeat my sentiment. So I want to congratulate her, …I can’t think of anyone else more deserving.&uot;

Williams, upon accepting the plaque, told the audience that it was her pleasure receiving the award and that all of her honor goes to the Lord.

&uot;I am thankful that He kept me through the years that I’ve worked so that I didn’t get fired and didn’t get put out. However, I’m 62 years old and I won’t be there another 30 years,&uot; she said, drawing a round of laughter.

One of Williams’ co-workers, Sarah Knight, nominated her for the award.

Williams began working in the clerk’s office in January 1975 as a clerk. After some time had passed, her co-workers noticed that she wore the color purple often, thus earning her the nickname of Purple Lady.

Williams said she loves purple because it stands for royalty and is the color that Jesus was mocked with before his crucifixion.

At the meeting, Yvonne Manning, the city’s human resources director, presented Williams with a plaque, U.S. Savings Bond and a coupon for dinner at Applebee’s.

Her recognition didn’t end on Wednesday. Her co-workers pampered her with breakfast at the office on Friday.