For 58 years, Sampson Farmers Hardware employee Billy McDaniel has clocked into work nearly every day eager to help clients in need. Now, McDaniel is retiring from his work at the hardware store in Clinton after suffering a stroke. However, McDaniel’s hard work has not gone unnoticed.

Tuesday morning, friends, family and coworkers surprised McDaniel at his now former place of work with an Estwing Golden Hammer Award.

“Estwing Hammer Company gives workers who have worked for 50 years in the business a golden hammer,” said McDaniel’s coworker Randy Kelly. “Billy had 58 years so we’re a little late on it.”

The award came as a shock to McDaniel, who broke down in tears upon receiving the trophy. It just so happens that August is the company’s anniversary month and McDaniel was under the imp

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