Celebrating Black History Month

Published: Thursday, February 17, 2022

In celebration of Black History Month, we commemorate the extraordinary contributions of those whose dedicated leadership and talents have greatly enriched NGHS’ history.

Deborah Mack

Her abundant roster of volunteer service both inside and outside NGHS highlights Deborah’s life-long commitment to her beloved community. A Hall County native, she spent more than eight years as a member of the Northeast Georgia Medical Center’s Board of Trustees, served on the Employee Compensation and Benefits Committee, and achieved lifetime member status on NGHS’ Advisory Council after 25 years of generous service. In addition, she is a lifetime member of the NGHS Auxiliary. We honor Deborah’s compassionate dedication and leading through action!

Elizabeth Lyle

A technician in the Cath Lab for 55 years, Elizabeth is the longest-tenured employee in our history! With her infectious energy, she is a beloved member of the NGHS community and is adored by her patients. We extend our sincerest appreciation to Elizabeth for her historic service to NGHS.  

Kelvin Simmons

For his five terms and a total of 15 years serving the Hospital Authority, we honor Kelvin Simmons. Kelvin’s notable volunteerism includes serving as a member of Northeast Georgia Medical Center’s Board of Trustees for more than a decade, the Hospital Authority of Gainesville and Hall County, as well as participating in NGHS’ volunteer Finance Committee and Operational Improvement Committee. We extend our gratitude to Kelvin for his selfless dedication to NGHS.


It is with heavy hearts that we honor the passing of two of our long-standing volunteers. They both made such lasting, positive impacts on the volunteer program of Northeast Georgia Health System. Ruby and Margaret are remembered for their dedication, many acts of kindness and the love of their fellow man.

​​​​​​​Ruby Lee Pierce Brawner

Ruby Brawner had such a contagious smile, a servant’s heart and truly enjoyed brightening the lives of patients, family members and staff. You often found her delivering mail at the Gainesville campus of NGMC or visiting long-term care residents at New Horizons Limestone. In 2017, Ruby was honored for 35 years of volunteer service with NGHS and the NGHS Auxiliary. She volunteered with such a genuine passion for lifting spirits and we are immensely grateful for her 38 years of service to the hospital and community. 

​​​​​​​​​​​​​​Margaret Osborne​​​​

For over 30 years, Margaret Osborne volunteered with such a kind heart, warm smile and true dedication in helping patients, family members and visitors at NGMC Gainesville. She often volunteered in the evening after completing her workday at the Wrigley Company. Margaret eagerly donated 6,700 hours of service, mainly volunteering at the Gainesville Campus, South Tower Information Desk. In 2003, she was honored with the Marjorie Covington Smith Auxilian of the Year Award by NGHS and NGHS Auxiliary. Margaret is fondly remembered for her compassionate years of service.

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