Edwards said she’s seen a lot of positive changes in the county over the years as well as interesting election years. She said getting her first computer at the county in 1986 was a big deal and she has watched three courthouse renovations, as well as the construction of the Womack building. She said 2004 was probably the worst election she directed because of new voting machines and five amendments on the ballot. And the 2008 presidential election was memorable because it was probably the highest voter turnout in Polk history.

“I’m truly going to miss my board members,” Edwards said naming every one beginning in 1981.

Edwards said Annie Bell Gilbert was on the board of elections when she was hired and Gilbert continued on the board until 2004. Other board of election members since Edwards’ hire included Ray Watson, Hall Arledge, Ellis Fincher Sr., Charlie Feagan, Doug Stirling, Ruth Sutherland, JoAnn Moss and Elvin Clark.

Current members are Kennedy, Judy Arledge and George Comparetto.

“I have been proud to serve on her board and work by her side often through stressful times,” Kennedy said. “Perhaps you would have to be a part of the election process to truly appreciate the wonderful job Dale has done … and to be able to feel the void that is taking place. Dale is one of a kind and the best of the best in my book.”

Edwards said she has a very helpful deputy director, Karen Lawrence and a great replacement, Tracy Waters, who was hired earlier this year.

Edwards said besides spending time with her grandson, Paxton,  and working on her farm, she plans to do some catering and travel. And of course she will continue to attend Polk County High School football games as she’s volunteered with the PCHS Boosters since 2001.

Edwards has been married to Danny Edwards since 1981 and they have two children, Danielle (Grant) Gibbs and Ethan (Lindsey) Edwards.