Slidell deputy clerk of court retires after 21 years

When Charlette James of Slidell was hired as a Deputy Clerk for Slidell City Court 21 years ago, there were half as many clerks, the court was on the second floor of the Slidell Police Department, and the second of five Slidell City Court Judges was on the bench.

Her first two weeks were so much fun, she said, when she got her paycheck she told her boss that if the court needed the money, "I could just give it back because I'd enjoyed working there so much."

That story, told to a large gathering of friends, family and current and former co-workers at her official retirement ceremony, was met with laughter. It's one of James' tales that will linger on after she leaves, according to Susan Ordoyne, Clerk of Court, and Kathleen Faler, Chief Deputy Clerk.

But there's so much more to James' service to the court that will be her legacy. Most of her service has been in the Civil Division with a minor stint in the Juvenile Division.

"Over these 21 years, she's just been immensely loyal to this court. She's loved working here," Ordoyne said. "She's served three clerks of court, and she's done it with loyalty, with honor and with humor."

Judge Jim Lamz said when he was an attorney practicing before the court, it was James he'd call when he needed help or information from the court.

"Charlette was my go-to person because she was so pleasant on the phone and always would get back with me on any information she didn't know right away. I had a vision for this court when I became judge -that we should treat all members of the community who come here with courtesy and respect. Charlette has always been the epitome of that vision," Lamz told the gathering.

Faler said members of the public frequently make a point to tell her how "kind and patient" James is when explaining matters to them. Faler noted her patient and exemplary abilities at training new clerks as well. But it's more than her work skills, Faler said, that makes everyone sad to see her go - it's her good humor and wit that have always added to a good team environment.

James has served under four of the five Slidell City Court judges.

In addition to Lamz, the other elected judges are Judge Gus A. Fritchie Jr. (deceased), Judge James R. Strain Jr. (retired) and Judge Gary Dragon (deceased). The only judge she did not serve under was founding Judge Gus A. Fritchie Sr.

Strain, who attended the ceremony, told of his fondness for James' sense of humor and unflappability under stress.

"Some people who go through your life make such a positive influence. Charlette is that person," Strain said.