Meet Paulette Grady
Paulette Grady has enjoyed life in retirement since January 2006. She retired from the DWP and was employed with the City for 34 years. During her tenure with the City, she worked in many City departments, including the LAPD, Building and Safety and Airports.
She loves to travel, and retirement has allowed her to visit all 50 states, travel to 20 countries and three continents.
Paulette loves to stay busy and is involved with the National Council of Negro Women (Life Member), a member of RLACEI, AARP, Champion of Caring Center (Board of Directors member), Artesia and Signal Hill Senior Center, Christmas Toy Drive Volunteer (Compton) and a member of the Red Hat Society. She regular attends events sponsored by the DWP and RLACEI.
When asked, “What words of wisdom can you offer retirees who are about to retire?” Paulette responded, “I would advise City employees who are thinking about retiring to be as close to debt-free as possible. In addition, be aware that socialization is one of the things that is reduced for many Retirees. I would suggest that Retirees become involved in an activity of interest, such as church, travel, senior center, charity organization, family, or join a gym. Or, even find a new job, doing something you enjoy.”
You retired from the DWP. Why did you join RLACEI?
“Joining RLACEI and attending their events created another social outlet and opportunity to hang out with former co-workers I would not have normally seen.
What was the smartest thing you did to prepare for retirement?
“I began my retirement plans five years before the actual date. Some things did not go as planned but I had a fall-back plan.”
What do you miss about your years of service to the City of Los Angeles?
“The interaction with co-workers.”
As you reflect on your City career, would you have done anything differently?
“Yes, there are some things I would have changed, but overall, I had a great City career. I accomplished many of the goals I set for myself.”
How do you fill your days?
“I have one day a week I call my retirement day. I stay home and read, write, watch TV, garden and/or talk on telephone.”
If you could change one thing about retired life, what would that be?
“Slow-down time! Time appears to be going too fast and I have so many things I want to do!”
