
Judith sits with friend and fellow Goodland Post Office employee, John Diamantidis. PHOTOS BY NATALIE STROM/COASTAL BREEZE NEWS
Walking into the Post Office in Goodland, one can’t help but notice that it isn’t your average Post Office. A mural featuring a mermaid carrying mail and a beautiful garden of flowers greets you as soon as you arrive. Inside, the walls are covered with paintings by local artists and a free book exchange cart is packed with books and magazines. A friendly hello always awaits you by Post Office patrons and employees. This warm, loving feel has been created over the past eight years by Goodland’s Postmaster, Judith Pritchard. Known and loved by all in town, Judith only recently announced that she will be retiring as of July 31.
One of the few Postmasters to serve Goodland, Judith followed in the footsteps of original Postmasters, Bud and Kappy Kirk, followed by their daughter, Tommy D. Taking her place in Goodland’s rich history, Judith came to work at the Post Office in 2002.
“This was always my dream from the day I started,” explains Judith. “To be in an office like this is what I had

Shannon Mitchell (left) was handpicked byJudith.
Featuring brightly colored murals, wind chimes and signs of encouragement, Judith truly has turned Goodland’s Post Office into what feels like her home. “When I got here, I looked around and I started making repairs. From working on the road with the Post Office, I got to know people all over the state.

Judith painted the beautiful mermaid mural on the side of the post office.
Over time, the walls inside the Post Office became covered with the works of local artists. Judith has added to it as well, having painted two murals behind the counter and the mermaid mural on the outside of the building. “I encouraged people to sign their work. I can’t sell anything but when a customer comes in and asks about a certain piece,

People often visit the Goodland Post Office to view local artwork.
Judith admits that after building such a unique environment, it will be hard to leave. “Being able to see all my friends and have our conversations and all our laughs will be something I miss the most. We really have a lot of laughs. We don’t have problems here either. I’ve always told people it’s because of two things: I am picky about my work and I have a ‘forcefield’ at the door.” Judith’s ‘forcefield’ keeps people from coming in with a bad attitude. Or maybe it’s just her amiable personality and willingness to help anyone who comes through the door.
Residents of Goodland will certainly miss seeing Judith’s smile on a daily basis. Goodland resident and business owner, Ray Bozicnik agrees. He comes to the Post Office every day for both his

Judith encouraged local artists to leave their mark on Post Office walls.
“I really am going to miss everyone here,” adds Judith. “They’re family.” Which is why she has made it clear that she will visit often. “I’m looking forward to being more present and enjoying the moment. When I don’t have to stop for phone calls and customers I will be able to stop by friends’ houses in town and have a real visit.”
With all the added free time, Judith is looking forward to focusing on some of her other passions. She is excited to be

Judith placed a note full of love inside the Post Office to inform patrons of her retirement.
Judith also knows better than to leave Goodland high and dry. She has handpicked her replacement, leaving the position to Officer in Charge, Shannon Mitchell. Shannon comes to Goodland from the Ochopee Post Office which is known as the smallest Post Office in the Unites States. Hailing from Everglades City, Shannon is used to the small town atmosphere. She has already started training at the Goodland Post Office and will be ready to take over August 1. She joins Ellen Hall who is a part time employee at the Goodland Post Office and John Diamantidis, who maintains the Post Office and its garden.
Residents of Goodland will certainly miss Judith as they have grown accustomed to her friendly face and encouraging spirit. A farewell party has been planned so that the town can gather and wish her a happy retirement. One thing is for sure, the party will be full of laughs and recollections of fond memories with Judith and times shared at the Goodland Post Office.
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