In an age when job-hopping is common and long-term loyalty is rare, one woman has stood the test of time — and she’s just been honored in a big way. Gloria Koehler, a 76-year-old Egg Harbor resident, has completed 45 years of dedicated service at the Frank S. Farley Service Plaza along the Atlantic City Expressway.
Gloria started working at the plaza in 1979. Since then, she has become a familiar and beloved figure to thousands of travelers who’ve passed through the area. Her daily duties have included maintaining restrooms, cleaning the lobby, and helping guests — tasks she’s completed with unwavering commitment and a cheerful attitude.
The Farley Plaza, the only travel plaza on the Atlantic City Expressway, is located in Hamilton Township and serves as a vital stop for travelers heading to and from Atlantic City. Operated by the South Jersey Transportation Authority (SJTA), the plaza offers fuel, food, and rest facilities.
To mark her 45-year milestone, the SJTA hosted a celebration in Gloria’s honor at the plaza earlier this month. Co-workers, travelers, and agency representatives gathered to show appreciation for her decades of hard work. It was a heartfelt moment — one that celebrated not just her years of service, but the positive energy she brought to every shift.
A Lifetime of Loyalty
Gloria’s story is increasingly rare. In today’s workforce, the average person changes jobs 12 times in their career, according to data from the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS.gov). But Gloria defied the trend, staying loyal to one job site for nearly half a century.
When asked why she stayed so long, Gloria simply replied, “I love what I do. I love the people. This place has been like my second home.”
That sense of home and family is mutual. Over the years, Gloria has developed strong bonds with fellow workers and has become a trusted presence to countless travelers. Many say seeing her warm smile and hearing her kind words made even the briefest stop feel special.
“She has become part of the experience of traveling the expressway,” one regular traveler shared. “When you see Gloria, you know you’re almost home.
Why This Matters
In a world that often values speed over service, Gloria’s story is a reminder of the importance of consistency, compassion, and quiet dedication. Her recognition comes at a time when frontline and essential workers are finally getting the long-overdue appreciation they deserve.
The Farley Plaza itself plays a crucial role in New Jersey’s transportation infrastructure, with millions of vehicles using the Atlantic City Expressway each year. Facilities like this — and the people who keep them running — are key to ensuring traveler comfort and safety.
As transportation systems modernize, it’s easy to overlook the human faces behind their operation. Gloria Koehler’s recognition is a powerful symbol of how essential workers impact lives in ways that often go unnoticed — until milestones like these are celebrated.
The Plaza That Became Her Legacy
The Frank S. Farley Plaza, named after the late New Jersey State Senator, is more than just a pit stop. It serves as a cornerstone for the Atlantic City Expressway, with restrooms, food courts, and fueling stations. Operated under the guidance of the South Jersey Transportation Authority (sjta.com), the plaza sees thousands of visitors every day.
For 45 years, Gloria played a key role in keeping the facility clean and welcoming. Her work ethic has been praised by supervisors, peers, and even complete strangers who stopped just once but never forgot her kindness.
During the recent ceremony, Gloria received a plaque of recognition, heartfelt speeches, and even a standing ovation. It wasn’t just about longevity — it was about love. The kind of quiet love that fills a workplace with pride and makes strangers feel like guests.
While many would consider retiring after such a long tenure, Gloria has not yet confirmed her next steps. Whether she continues working or decides to enjoy a well-earned retirement, her legacy at Farley Plaza is already cemented.
“She’s inspired all of us,” said one employee. “She showed what it means to show up, do the work, and care about people while doing it.”