BAY MINETTE — Baldwin County Circuit Clerk Jody Wise Campbell marked her last day in office Thursday before retiring after 18 years in the position.
Brenda Ganey took office Friday, July 1, to serve the remainder of Campbell's term, which expires in 2024.

Campbell, a native of Bay Minette, was appointed circuit court clerk in 2004 and was elected to the position three times. Campbell said she felt the office has made progress in the time that she has been clerk.

"I feel like I'm leaving the office better than it was when I started," Campbell said. "We've gone from having everything on paper to electronic files, and we've been able to reduce the staff. It was 36 when I started, and we're at 20 now."

She said much of the credit for the success of the office should go to the staff members and other officials.

"The women here in the office have always been a wonderful group to work with," she said. "Also, the judges and everyone, we have a wonderful judicial system here in Baldwin County."

In addition to managing the files of the court system, the office also works with jurors and the administration of absentee ballots.

Campbell said she plans to spend some time in retirement at her family beach house and at a hunting camp.

"I'll probably do some volunteer work in the future," she said. "I've got some ideas I'm working on."

Ganey will take office after serving more than 29 years in the clerk's office. She began her career as a court specialist and worked her way up to chief deputy clerk under Campbell.

"Brenda will do a great job," Campbell said. "I feel like I'm leaving things in good hands."

Ganey said in a statement that she has worked as county court administrator since leaving the clerk's office.

"I look forward to the opportunity to serve as Baldwin's next circuit clerk for many years to come," Ganey said.\A swearing-in ceremony for Ganey will be held July 19 at the Baldwin County Courthouse located in Bay Minette.