Burl "Sonny" Johnson III, after 41 years in the insurance business, has announced his retirement effective June 15, 2008.

Johnson started his career in May of 1967 with Gulf Life Insurance Company. Over the years he has worked in all areas of Northeast Georgia, spending the past 18-plus years with Cotton States Insurance Company in Washington.

"In the past 31 years I have enjoyed serving the people of Wilkes and the surrounding counties and their insurance needs," Johnson said. "I consider Washington my hometown. It has been a wonderful ride!"