If you’ve visited the Somerton Post Office anytime since 1989, you’ve probably interacted with Jerry McGovern.
In all, McGovern has worked for the Postal Service for 39 years.
“Thirty-five of them right here,” he said.
McGovern is a Port Richmond native and North Catholic High School graduate. He attended college for a little bit and worked in a machine shop before an uncle, who worked at what was then Philadelphia’s main post office branch at 30th and Market streets, suggested he apply for a job there.
Then 23, McGovern was looking for a career with a nice salary and benefits. He began his career with the Postal Service in May 1985 as a mail sorter and flat sorter, remaining at 30th Street for three years. He spent the next year working at branches in Holmesburg, Kensington and Bridesburg before arriving at the Somerton Post Office, 669 Hendrix St.