By Miles Layton

A round-up of all things Tyrrell County…

Three longtime educators will be honored at a retirement party this Friday as Tyrrell County Schools bids farewell to a combined 81 years of dedicated service.

Dixie Armstrong, Dorinda Spruill and Diana Spruill will be celebrated between 5 and 6:30 p.m. in the cafeteria at Tyrrell Elementary School.

Superintendent Brianna Williams said the departures leave a real void in the district.

“These three ladies will truly be missed,” Williams said. “I am saddened to see them retire because each is taking with them a wealth of knowledge and experience. At the same time, I know this is the reward they have worked so hard to achieve over the years. As Superintendent, I wish them all an abundance of peace, happiness, and blessings in their retirement.”

Armstrong spent 23 years as an elementary teacher in the district, building what colleagues describe as a lasting legacy in the community where she lives and taught.

Dorinda Spruill dedicated 30 years to the district’s Pre-K and Kindergarten programs, guiding some of Tyrrell County’s youngest learners through their first steps in education.

Diana Spruill served the district for 28 years as school nurse, acting as a first responder, a trusted confidant for students and staff, and a steady presence through events, including the COVID-19 pandemic.

Congratulations!

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In other news around the county:

The Tyrrell Volunteer Fire Department’s BBQ fundraiser drew a crowd Sunday, with proceeds benefiting the department. Among those attending were state Senate candidate Jerry Tillett and Laurie Buckhout, Republican congressional candidate for the 1st District. That’s where the photo comes from — Tyrrell VFD — and see our story here about the need for funds.

Wednesday, NCWorks held a financial literacy workshop at the Tyrrell County Library with another planned for June 18 at the same location.

“We’re available to help people search job data bases, build resumes and we can offer opportunities to learn skills to advance your career,” said Nicole Bowman Layton, program support specialist with NCWorks.

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The proposed Tyrrell County Budget for fiscal year 2026–2027 has been submitted to the Board of Commissioners and is available for public inspection at the Office of the Clerk to the Board, located in the Tyrrell County Office Building at 108 S. Water Street in Columbia. The budget may be reviewed Monday through Friday, 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. See our story about the budget here — no tax or fee increases!

A public hearing on the budget is scheduled for Tuesday, June 2 at 1 p.m. in the Conference Room of the Tyrrell County Office Building, 106 S. Water Street, Columbia. Residents with questions may contact Clerk to the Board Penny Owens at 252-796-1371, ext. 2621.