Mildred Hardy did not want to be featured on “06880.”
But several customers walking into Minute Men Cleaners saw us talking, and gave encouragement. “You deserve it!” one said.
She sure does.
Millie — as she is universally and lovingly known — has been with the Riverside Avenue company for 47 years. She has been its backbone forever.
This was not her first Westport job. The Jamaica native was working for a family on South Compo Road. But she saw an ad for a presser. She was hired — and started work the same day.
That was March 3, 1971. Her boss is now the son of the former owner. She enjoys working for him — and interacting with customers. “They’re great,” Millie says. “They’re all my friends.”
Millie Hardy
She’s done dry cleaning, and run the machines. Now she works at the counter, where countless customers appreciate her warm smile and kind words.
Millie lives next door. In a part of town known for commuting — and at a business with many commuter customers — she’s got the shortest commute of all.
And one of biggest fan bases of anyone, anywhere.
Thanks, Millie, for 47 years of loyal, devoted service to Minute Men Cleaners, and Westport. You’re a true Unsung Hero!
(Hat tip: Patricia McMahon)
Millie is the best! She has been taking good care of us and our friends for a long time. She is a personality. Old-school customer service with a flair!
Great choice.
Can’t say enough good things about Millie! She is always kind, supremely competent at her job, and a joy to be around. Thanks for this inspired choice! (John and I will miss seeing you and your family at Commuter Coffee now that is closed, Millie. Wishing you all the very best!)
Always great seeing a business I remember still in Saugatuck. Especially nice to hear about someone who has worked there too all that time! They did a great job cleaning/preserving my Wedding Gown back in ’78!
Our cleaners way back in the 60’s through early 80’s. I remember going in with my mom to pick up shirts…loved the cardboard inside the shrts…we used to draw on “shirt cardboard”. Good to know you are still going strong!
Great choice for Unsung Hero – Millie is such a nice person. Thanks Dan.
Millie is an excellent choice! As a customer for about 30 years I always enjoy talking to her.
not only a wonderful asset to our business community, but you should note that Millie is a Saugutuck resident as well
I did note that. It’s near the end.
Awesome!!
Dan,
I’m just seeing this and so delighted.
I absolutely adore Millie and glad you were able to make this happen.
She’s a local treasure !
Hooray for choosing Millie as a genuine Westport hero. I have known her for my 25 years in Westport, and I use Minute Man as my cleaners despite living in Greens Farms largely because of her customer focus and always ready smile. Thank you Millie!
Millie is a shining star for all of us here in Westport! Rain or shine, she works hard and has a smile and a kind word for everyone. Thanks for recognizing her Dan. Good job!
I neglected to add, I’ve been a HUGE Millie fan for over 25 years! Congratulations Millie! Well deserved recognition!