Mac’s Drive-Thru to honor beloved 37-year employee Sighle “Sheila” Williams with epic send-off on last day of work
Press release from Mac’s Drive-Thru
GAINESVILLE, Fla. – Mac’s Drive-Thru owner Ron DeFilippo today announced plans for a spectacular retirement send-off for beloved employee Sighle Williams after 37 years of dedicated service to the restaurant and its customers.
“We are going to make October 11 an amazing day for Sighle and the community,” said Ron DeFilippo, owner of Mac’s Drive-Thru. “As a small business owner, I’m a big believer of people over profits. Sighle embodies what we stand for – genuine human connections in a world that often prioritizes speed over substance. Her dedication over 37 years shows that when you value your employees, they in turn create immeasurable value for your customers and community. This celebration isn’t just about Sighle’s retirement; it’s about honoring the power of human touch in business. In today’s fast-paced world, we’re proud to slow down and recognize that our greatest asset has always been, and will always be, our people.”
“We want her last day behind the window to be as memorable as she’s made every customer feel.”
DeFilippo feels that providing Sighle with all revenue for the day is a fitting way to reward such a unique, deserving employee. It also gives the community a chance to be part of the excitement and fun and to rally behind her by showing up in a big way.
Sighle Williams isn’t just an employee – she’s a local legend with an uncanny memory for orders and quick-witted charm. She’s elevated drive-thru service to an art form, and her story resonates with anyone who’s ever clocked in, dreamed big, or found unexpected joy in their daily grind.
DeFilippo’s name is familiar to many in the Gainesville region, particularly University of Florida Gators’ fans. DeFilippo was the long-time owner of The Swamp Restaurant, a storied eatery and student hang-out adjacent to UF’s campus.
Sighle’s remarkable story as the treasured voice of Mac’s Drive-Thru will be the subject of a short documentary by award-winning Insignia Films. The documentary will chronicle her last day and the community’s excitement for it, while weaving in the broader American experience that Sighle’s story represents. The documentary will be headed by acclaimed filmmakers Lauren DeFilippo and Sam Soko.
The community is encouraged to show up throughout the day, from 9a.m. to 6 p.m., on October 11 to wish Sighle farewell and enjoy some great food in support of her retirement.
“After 37 years, I’m grateful for every customer who’s made this journey unforgettable,” Sighle says warmly. “A big thanks to Ron for making my last days at Mac’s so special. Next, I’m off to New Orleans, a coast-to-coast train ride, and some well-earned fishing trips. But don’t worry, you know I’ll still be cheering on my Gators!”
Shighle Williams is my Classmate. I been knowing her for years. I have been coming to Mac’s for years we always look forward to hearing her voice everytime we come to the drive through she already know what we are going to order it is amazing how she remember. Always sweet and friendly She always making us feel like family. We are going to miss her. But Enjoy your retirement Sis. You deserve it. We love you.
This is a beautiful tribute! I hope many show up to make her last day spectacular!
You can tell a good business by the length of their employees time on the job.
Can anyone guess where I’m eating lunch on October 11th?
This is awesome. Other business should take note. She is awesome and I also look forward to her taking my order. I pray that the revune exceeds any expected amount.
this is utterly the coolest.. big kudos!!! I may need to experiuence her customker service oct 11 and help her be sent off with the biggest day yet. a FILM on this is tickling for there is so much bad and this is so good
That’s incredible! 37 years. Looking forward to stopping by on Oct 11th.
I first met Sheila at a daycare. Always pleasant, always with a smile. Enjoy your retirement! Thanks for your service. Much love from Ms. Blunt😘
This is AWESOME! This is heart felt!
I admire the way he’s sending her on her next chapter of life. Kudos and continued blessings to Sheila and the owner for his giving heart! Not to many owners would have done this. He’s celebrating with her! I’ll continue to eat more often at MAC’S
BURGERS! Blessings!!
Congratulations this is a well deserved blessing for a wonderful lady. I always look forward to see Sheila at the window. Enjoy your retirement.
Wishing her health and happiness! May her retirement be as sweet as the Mac’s tea!!!
Sighle is a longtime childhood friend of our family! We all grew up together and she’s the same beautiful fun loving person today. Congratulations to you ❤️
Love this for Sheila!! Well deserved.
Congratulations and I’ll be there for my burger. Maybe a tip (Congratulations bucket) for Sheila for Us customers to show our appreciation and to help her on her new journey.
Congratulations on your well deserved retirement. Thanks for all your wonderful years of service. See you on the 11th
Sheila is the face of macs for me and my family. It became a weekly ritual for us. Thank you Sheila and we live ya girlie
Wishing you the very best in your well deserved retirement. Your friendly smile made my day
I hope they’re ready for a huge turnout that day!
Sighle always made my trip to Mac’s a real treat. She will be missed. Her friendly smile and greeting would make my day. Best wishes on your retirement
Sighle, will truly be missed, and loved. Now, Sighle go out with a big bang, and live your best life. You earned it. Ellinor (Sims) Jenkins.
Ms. Sheila was always so very pleasant. I worked for Alachua County and went to Macs on a regular for lunch. I moved away and happened thru Gainesville for lunch one day and had to get my Macs. Ms. Sheila came to the window and to my surprise she said “hey, how you been? Where u been? I haven’t seen you in a while:”. I was honored. That bit of customer service was awesome.