"Neither snow nor rain nor heat nor gloom of night stay these couriers from the swift completion of their appointed rounds," according to the motto of the U.S. Postal Service.

Retirement, however, can point the couriers in new directions.

Such is the case for Cherryville Postmaster Jane Fried, who retired July 31 after more than 26 years with the post office.

As postmaster, she ran the office and worked with customers.

She served as a clerk for more than 13 years and as a postmaster for another 13. She also worked at different post offices throughout her career including Laurys Station and Springtown.

"I love my job," said Fried.

Her favorite part of the job was "working with the public and helping them with their mailing needs," she said.

She enjoyed the customer service aspect and the contact with her coworkers.

"I like working with people, with other postmasters and making a lot of friendships and helping each other out," said Fried.

Fried said the hardest part is leaving the people and friends she has met throughout the years, but she is ready to retire.

"I'm ready for the next chapter," she said. "I had a good run."

Fried plans on spending time with her granddaughter and family. She would like to do some volunteering as well.

The new postmaster is Joseph Andrews.