Jones and Perry retire from Hannah-Pamplico

The end of the school year at Hannah-Pamplico also marked the retirement of two veteran members of the Raider family, Theo E. Jones and Lynn Perry.
Theo E. Jones is a native of Florence and a graduate of Wilson High School. She has spent the past 47 years in the Pamplico area. Jones and her husband, James C. Jones, have two sons, who are both graduates of Hannah-Pamplico and are active in the military.

In August 1998, Jones became a part of the family that is HPEMS. With her love for all children, Jones has become an important part of the student’s lives at the school. She has spent the past 20 years as a teachers’ assistant, with the first 15 years of her career being spent as a school bus driver, as well.

Not only does she work hard at the school, but also she is active in her church, helping with Vacation Bible School and Sunday school and other church activities.
“I’ve always liked working with people, and I love the children. I feel that we can learn a little from each student. I always tell my students that if you want it, you have to work for it,” Jones said.

In 2004, Jones became the first teacher at HPEMS to receive the honor of being chosen Teacher Assistant of the Year.

“I am thankful for the opportunity to have been a part of the people here at Hannah-Pamplico. My words to them are to continue to love, respect, and support each other here at HPEMS,” said Jones.

Even though she’s retiring, she’s willing to help out at the school if she is needed.

“I’m going to miss being here everyday. I’m going to miss working with the children and being with my friends here at Hannah-Pamplico.”

Another member of the Raider family, Mrs. Lynn Perry, started work at HPEMS in January 1973. She is a graduate of J. Paul Truluck High in Lake City. She later graduated from USC and received her master’s from Francis Marion University. During the past 35 years, Perry has worn many different hats here at Hannah-Pamplico. She said she wanted to be a teacher since she was in the third grade, and she has lived her dream here in Raider Territory. She met and married Robbie Perry, who has also taught in the school district. They have two children, a son and a daughter, and a grandson.

“I feel that this is the best school district to work in,” Mrs. Lynn said. “I’ve loved working here. It has totally changed my life.”

Perry has served on many different committees throughout the years. She has been nominated for Teacher of the Year three times.

“It is always an honor to be chosen by ones colleagues for this award,” she said. “I have served this district to the best that I know how, and I have enjoyed it. I am proud to have been a part of this team. To the administration, board members, faculty, staff, parents, and students, I thank you all for your support over the years. I will miss being here with my HPEMS family. I have watched student’s come and go. I’ve taught many students through the passing years and have even taught their children as well. I have always had a passion for teaching, and I will miss it.”

Perry is also an active member of her church and is on hand to help out in any way possible, working with mission work, choir, and many other church activities. After retiring, Mrs. Perry plans on spoiling her new grandson just a little bit more.