After 10 years at Sonny Merryman, Rick Poindexter is retiring for the second time, closing a chapter on what he describes as the “best retirement job in the world.”
Rick joined Sonny Merryman after already completing a full career in the steel industry. A Lynchburg native, he retired from Lynchburg Steel in 2014 after 43 years in the business and began looking for part-time work. That search led him to Sonny Merryman, where he initially started driving buses under Vicky Overstreet. Just six months later, Rick expressed interest in a full-time role, and soon after, Derek Shelton reached out about an opening in the Parts Department. Rick stepped into the role of Parts Delivery Driver, where he would spend the next decade supporting technicians and customers across the region.
Throughout his time at Sonny Merryman, Rick became known for his reliability, positive attitude, and the pride he took in serving others. His role put him in daily contact with the shop teams and customers, and he made a lasting impression through his kindness and eagerness to go the extra mile.
As Rick puts it, what made Sonny Merryman special was simple. “It’s a big family,” he says. “They’ve really treated me very well here.” He adds that working alongside the guys in the bus shops was one of his favorite parts of the job, noting how welcoming and kind everyone always was.
Rick’s character and commitment to service did not go unnoticed either.
– Rob Doss, Warehouse Associate
Outside of work, Rick has had a lifelong love for drumming. He has played the drums since he was six years old and was once part of the Lynchburg High Steppers, a majorette corps where he and a small group of drummers traveled across Virginia performing in parades and competitions. Though his drum set has been tucked away for a few years, Rick says getting back into music is something he looks forward to in retirement.
This year marks a special milestone for Rick and his wife, who is also retiring. Together, they are excited to enjoy this next chapter side by side and finally make time for the things they have wanted to do together.
Rick’s contributions to the Sonny Merryman Parts Department and the relationships he’s built along the way will be remembered, and his presence will be greatly missed. We thank Rick for his 10 years of service and wish him and his wife all the best in their well-earned retirement.