By By Arthur McLean
George Mosby, better known as Coach Mosby to many in Atmore, couldn't retire from the city without a little recognition.
What the 39-year director of Houston Avery's swimming pool received for his efforts, was a key to the city presented by Mayor Howard Shell.
"We're not going to let him go easily," Shell said. "He was more than the pool director, he was a friend to many men and women who now have children of their own here."
Mosby came to work for the city in 1966 and became the director of the Houston Avery pool the second year it was open.
"I came to work for the city in 1976, and I don't remember George even being absent one day," said Coach Middleton.
In addition to his work for the city, Mosby was a teacher in Escambia County for 38 years, a member and treasurer of the P.C.R.C. for 25 years and a Sunday School teacher and Head Steward of Gaines Chapel AME Church for 50 years.
He has been married to Mary Mosby for 51 years. They have three children, five grandchildren and two great-grandchildren.
"I want you to know how much you mean to us, and I've got a sneaky suspicion that we'll still see you at the pool from time to time," Shell said.
Friends and family gathered at City Hall Monday afternoon for the ceremony, filling council chambers.
Monday also marked Mosby's 81st birthday.