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Family, friends and fellow colleagues celebrated Ricky Martin’s start of retirement April 21 at First Baptist Church Atmore.

After a 39-year career with Gulf Power Co. and Alabama Power Co., Martin was given a proper send off.

“We’re a family, not only in the company, but as a part of the community,” Martin said. “I love my family. The ladies I’ve worked with, y’all have made my life so wonderful.”

Martin said he’s going to love retirement, but he’s going to miss the relationships.

“Y’all don’t know how much you made a difference in my life,” he said.

Martin served as the business office manager from May 2011; and as senior labor relations specialist and senior human resource analyst at GP, according to his Linkedin profile.

Martin was presented a plaque of appreciation for his many years of service with Alabama Power.

Mrs. Jean’s Cakes and Catering catered the celebration.

Martin is married to Shannon, and the couple have three children, Ben, Sam and Shannon Rebecca.