Windmill Shores residents celebrate beloved mail carrier's retirement

Friends, family and residents of mail carrier Donna Hume's regular route surprised her Friday with a retirement celebration along Morningside Drive in Windmill Shores. After 20 years of service to the U.S. Postal Service, Hume, 64, made her final delivery Friday afternoon. Over 20 people attended the block party, promoted by Jim Rice, president of Windmill Shores homeowners association, in an email blast asking residents to gather near the neighborhood beach. Many residents made her thank you gifts. Hume started in 2005 as a part-time flexible carrier, filling in when needed, routinely working 50 hours a week. Two years later, she became a full-time carrier. Hume is known for her large personality, sarcastic jokes and charitable actions. During the summer, Hume often bought 100 gift certificates from Happy Cow Ice Cream Shop, and gave them to children in the homes on her route. Hume spoke about her connection with the residents on her routes. “When you're out on your route, you develop a whole new family. You get to know these people. You see them every day.”