Celebration to honor Linda Sellers' retirement

In the past 23 years, Linda Sellers has been the “lifeguard mama” to at least 130 guards.

“It is a great feeling to see old lifeguards come back to the pool each summer with their own children,” Sellers said. “Most of them call me ‘Mama Lin,’ and I just love it.”

Sellers will retire from her position as athletic coordinator of Homewood Parks and Recreation this month, but not without a party to celebrate, scheduled for March 9.

Twin sisters Alissa and Emily Thurmond said Sellers took them under her wing and made them feel welcome at the pool each summer from an early age.

“When I was old enough to work for Homewood, Linda helped me obtain my lifeguard certificate, and I have been here ever since,” Alissa said. “She has been the best boss anyone could ask for, and I hope she knows what an inspiration she has been in my life.”

During her tenure, Sellers created the Junior Lifeguard Program, where children ages 11-14 shadow a lifeguard during the summer, and the Swim with Your Dogs Day at the end of the season.

Sellers leaves many fond memories, including when Jeff Myers took her to the bottom of the pool in her street clothes — including her shoes and city beeper — after drill one night.

“When I came to the top of the pool, there were no lifeguards to be seen,” she said.

Another time Sellers went to the parking lot to leave for lunch only to find her car gone from its place and a kid car in the spot with a note that said “My New Ride.”

Sellers will certainly be missed around the pool each summer, but she said that in her new phase of life known as “retirement” that she hopes she will have a steady stream of drop-in visitors.

“I have grown to know so many special people over the years, and I hope to still see them around our special community,” Sellers said. “My plans for the future are still not set, but I know one thing is for sure — I am going to clean out my closets!”

Retirement Celebration Honoring Linda Sellers

Saturday, March 9, 7-9 p.m.

Homewood Senior Center

816 Oak Grove Road