The year was 1970. There was several major events that took place during that year including the Boeing 747 making it’s first commercial flight introducing the “jumbo jet” age, and the iconic rock and roll music group, The Beatles, disbanded.

Economically, the average cost of a gallon of gas was 36 cents, the average income per year earned was $9,400.00 and the average cost of a new house across the nation was $23,450.00

Locally, there was another event that while flying under the radar has proven to be most beneficial to countless residents of Jackson Parish and the surrounding area. That was when Debra (Hargrove) Fordham began working at State Farm Insurance Agency in Jonesboro. 

On Monday, August 26th, Agent Shawn Murphy and his staff at State Farm Insurance in Jonesboro celebrated Debra’s 54th year work anniversary.

“Her contributions to our team are invaluable, and we’re grateful for her dedication,” said Murphy when reflecting on her years of service.

The outpouring of acknowledgement that was received and how much it means to her to be able to service the community through her virtually life long devotion to State Farm was very evident in the post (shown below) delivered by Forham on Facebook.

BIG THANKS to all of you who wished me a Happy Work Anniversary. 54 Years!!!! And no, I am NOT retiring…you, the customers, I work for are the best! It does my little heart good to know I have done everything within my power to take care of you and your insurance needs. That’s just what we do at the Shawn Murphy State Farm Agency….every one of our team members does the same. You are loved, appreciated, and respected. We all look forward to many more years of servicing your insurance needs. If you aren’t already on board with us, give us a call. I can assure you, you will be glad you did! Thanks again, folks!

The thanks goes to you, Debra!!!!!