Community Celebrates Terry Coye's Dedication to Public Service

PORT ALLEN, La. – After nearly three decades of dedicated service to the City of Port Allen, Terry Coye has officially retired from his position at Port Allen City Hall, marking the end of a distinguished 29-year career in municipal government.

The retirement celebration, which took place on May 30th, drew colleagues, friends, and community members who gathered to honor Coye's commitment to public service. The event featured tributes from coworkers and residents who have worked with Coye throughout his tenure.

"Terry it has been an honor and a pleasure to work with you," said colleague Theresa Pearson. "I pray that you are blessed beyond measure. You deserve it all!"

Port Allen City Council member April L. King praised Coye's service, calling him "a kind soul" and acknowledging his 29 years of dedication to the city. The retirement has generated an outpouring of congratulations from community members.

Community members, City Council, and the Mayor lined up along the route from Court Street and Jefferson to Michigan Avenue to wave goodbye as Coye took his final bike ride home from work, complete with a police escort – a fitting farewell for someone who has been a familiar presence in the community for decades.

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Fellow city employee and apparent fishing enthusiast, Coye was celebrated by what friends called "The Fishermen of the Pond" – Eric, Terry, and Mr. Russell – highlighting the personal relationships he built during his time with the city.

Council Woman Charlene Gordon summed up the sentiment shared by many: "You've earned every moment of this retirement! Your dedication to the community will never be forgotten."

The retirement marks the end of an era for Port Allen City Hall, where Coye's nearly three decades of service spanned multiple administrations and countless community initiatives. Throughout his career, both Coye and his wife were known for attending all city events, becoming familiar faces at community gatherings. His departure leaves behind a legacy of public service that colleagues and residents say will be remembered for years to come.

Coye's retirement comes at a time when municipal governments across Louisiana are seeing experienced public servants step down, taking with them years of institutional knowledge and community connections.

The City of Port Allen has not yet announced who will fill Coye's position or what succession plans are in place following his departure.