An obituary of Mrs. Patricia Carmody, believed to have been the last shorthand court reporter in Michigan. She was a Gregg writer, the dates placing her in the Anniversary school.
Court worker wielded mighty pen
She was awarded the Golden Notes Award by the National Court Reporters Association in recognition of her many years of service in the profession.
“She was the consummate professional in any way you measure it,” said Shiawassee Circuit Court Judge Gerald Lostracco, who had worked alongside her since 1985. He said she could transcribe up to 220 words per minute.
“If there were a role model for a public servant who was dedicated to their work and believed in getting it right the first time, then Patt was the person to look to,” he added.
Mrs. Carmody began working for Shiawassee County Probate Court in November 1947. She continued to work with the courts both full-time and freelance until her death, taking time off only to raise her five children.
“She was just a tremendous reporter. And the nicest person,” said retired attorney George Geddis, who practiced in the court for decades and now lives in Dundee. “The only time she’d ever raise her voice was when two lawyers were talking at once and she’d say, ‘Excuse me, I can’t write with both hands.’ “
What a nice obituary for a feisty lady. She sounds like a very personable professional. It's a certainty those who knew her will miss her very much.
I love her comment to the lawyers. Totally professional but at the same time pointing out that their behaviour was inappropriate.
Thanks for sharing.
And we've lost another, Helen Boyd of Barrington, Illinois, at 95.
http://www.pioneerlocal.com/barrington/news/2562886,barrington-boyd-080510-s1.article
"Boyd was born on July 25, 1915, in Mattoon, Ill., the fourth child of George and Wilhelmina Aikman.
"After finishing secondary school in Mattoon she was awarded a scholarship to Eastern Illinois University and spent a happy year there, but the economics of the Great Depression prevented her from finishing.
"She moved to Chicago in 1934 and attended Gregg Shorthand College, which enabled her to establish a career as a court reporter. Her shorthand skills stayed with her all her life and earned her accolades including a first-place medal at the Chicago Century of Progress Fair of 1933."
That's a very nice obit. Thanks for sharing.