OXFORD — Town Clerk

is retiring after more than 17 years to enjoy life with her soon-to-be husband, Selectman Roger Jackson. 

Morrison, who will be 62 in December, said she always put off thoughts of retirement. 

“I figured I’d die at my desk; you know those old town clerks who know everything, I figured that would be me,” Morrison said.

However, her plans changed when she decided to tie the knot with a familiar face in Oxford politics over the years. After spending years as friends, she decided to “reach for the brass ring” and marry Jackson, a longtime friend.

As the head of the town’s clerical staff, she oversees the collection of vital records, issues local permits, runs elections, records minutes during selectmen meetings and doles out general assistance. 

“You wear many hats in this position,” she said.

After growing up and spending much of her life in Plainfield, N.J., she moved to Maine in the early 1980s when her husband got a job with National Semiconductor. She has three children and three grandchildren. 

After he passed away, Morrison said she grew close to Jackson, who also lost his spouse. 

She plans to travel with her husband, work around his busy schedule, which includes political work, farming and a maple syrup business, and simply relax. 

Selectmen accepted her resignation Thursday evening. Town Manager Michael Chammings said he has enjoyed the past decade working alongside Morrison. 

“It’s been a pleasure working with her. A lot of work goes through this office,” Chammings said.

Clerk Sheila Cole will replace Morrison, whose official last day is Dec. 31. 

“There’s a lot I’m going to miss. You grow up with the people, and I see kids who were little now coming in with babies,” Morrison said.