90-year-old Yadkinville woman still enjoys working

CLEMMONS, N.C. (WGHP) — What better way to celebrate a birthday than with good health and strength?

Lois Steelman feels so good that she’s working well into her golden years. At 90, Steelman works full-time for Crothall Healthcare at Novant Health Clemmons Medical Center.

Crothall is contracted by Novant to come in and clean its facilities.

Steelman was with Novant before those services were contracted out. She applied with Crothall once it took over the duties.

“I like to be around people,” she said. “When I worked over at Forsyth, I worked on the oncology floor, and I really got attached to them people over there, so it was kind of hard to come over here, but once I got here, I liked it.”

Steelman has worked nearly a combined 33 years, approximately 32.7 years, between both companies.

“Lois is awesome. She is literally loved by everyone here. She has a very impeccable work ethic, and she’s a go-getter,” Assistant Director of Environmental Services at Crothall Healthcare -NHCMC Janie Suppa said.

Suppa spent months working on a surprise 90th birthday celebration for Steelman.

Suppa and the rest of the team were successful at keeping it under wraps until Steelman walked into a room that had a cake, food, balloons and 90th birthday décor waiting for her.

She even received a crown and sash recognizing her 90th birthday.

“Well, I came in to a big surprise,” Steelman said.

People, including patients, are encouraged by Steelman.

“They say I inspire them to get up and go more,” she said.

“She enjoys the people, and she’s made a lot of friends that she still keeps in touch with who have since retired,” Steelman’s daughter Teresa Phibbs said.

When asked about her own retirement, Steelman says she doesn’t have a set time.

“Just one day at a time,” she said.

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