VIDALIA — Even though she would never take credit for the accomplishment, the new Vidalia Recreation Complex wouldn’t be possible without Lula Mae Caldwell.

As Recreation District No. 3 secretary, Caldwell squeezed every penny and carefully watched all funds that eventually helped build the $6.5 million complex.

But after 18 years, Caldwell said it was time to go and officially handed over the reigns on Monday.

And even though the complex is only months away from being inaugurated, Caldwell said she doesn’t need to stick around for a ribbon cutting to be proud of such a tremendous accomplishment.

“I feel like that complex is a part of me, but it’s just time to go,” Caldwell said Thursday evening during a reception at the new Vidalia City Hall. “I remember when this area was all woods, so it’s been something to see everything come together.

“It’s just an incredible project.”

After serving on the Concordia Parish School Board for 25 years, Caldwell joined the recreation board in 1994.

The secretary position offered Caldwell a chance to work from home, but still be out in the community and get to know everyone — something she said is the best part of the job.

“I’m a people person, so I’m definitely going to miss just talking and seeing everyone,” Caldwell said. “It’s grown so much over the years.”

Other than being a social butterfly, Caldwell said she also enjoyed being able to manage the board’s finances — even when other board members didn’t approve of her frugalness.

“I was always so tight with the money and tried to keep it invested,” Caldwell said. “I like to think that’s what helped build this new complex, but it was everyone working together.”

Recreation Commission Chair Marc Archer hasn’t known a board meeting without Caldwell and said it will be a little strange to not see her there for the next one.

“Mrs. Caldwell is the board,” Archer said. “We’re all just volunteers, because we just show up, and she already has everything ready.

“We’ll never replace her.”

Attempting to fill the shoes worn by Caldwell for 18 years is Eileen Murray.

Murray said she has been training with Caldwell for a while, but is still nervous about taking the helm solo for the first time.

“I could never replace her, but I’m going to do my best,” Murray said. “Her ability to be so open and approachable is what I’m really going to have to work at.”

And even though her retirement became official on Monday, Caldwell said she would stick around on retainer for a year just in case any issues arise.

But with new 2-month-old great-grandchildren in the picture, Caldwell said she won’t have any trouble finding something to keep her occupied.

“My motto is just like those posters — live, laugh and love,” Caldwell said. “I have some great memories here, and I look forward to making more with my family.”