In this series, the Gazette-Journal shines the light on residents who are working to make this a better place.

The Gloucester County Animal Control Department is a different place now without Cheryl “Candy” Johnson who served as administrative assistant there for 24 years.

“She is definitely missed,” said Stephen Baranek, Chief Animal Control Officer.

Baranek said that Johnson is a good friend and a fantastic worker. He has worked with her in the department for the past 21 years.

“I’ve never worked with anybody so long in my life,” said Baranek.

Johnson started at Animal Control in January 1997 after working in the Treasurer’s Office at the College of William and Mary, handling student accounts and student loans.

“It was a blessing to get a job here at the county,” said Johnson.

Instead of being 34 miles away from work at William and Mary, she lived only six miles away from work when she was employed at Animal Control. She was also able to meet the people of Glouc...