Mary Margaret Judd officially retired from Dan S. Judd Consultants, Inc. December 31, 2024 after heading up the company for the last 36 years.
She took reins of the company in 1988 that her father and mother, Norvelle, started in 1973.
“I’ve really enjoyed the people that I’ve worked with over the years,” said Mary. “Especially Laura Jenkins and the Moseley family.”
Fifty two years ago the business started in an office at the Gardendale Office Plaza then moved to Irmo proper on Woodrow Street. The year 1983 saw the firm take up residence at the Nursery Road address and it has been there ever since.
“Our success was due to the fact we were consistent with our work,” Mary said. “Our software was advanced beyond what other consultants used at the time.”
Mary remembers an IRS conference in 1998 where she was asked to speak on electronic filing.
“We used electronic filing as soon as it began and were on the cutting edge of that part of the business,” said Mary.
Her father, Dan, was instrumental in starting the SC Tax Council in 1976 which was formed to provide a voice for preparers who were not CPAs or enrolled agents with the IRS and wanted recognition with the SC Tax Commission.
The council provided continuing education and training for unlicensed or unenrolled tax preparers.
“The preparers job has become increasingly more difficult,” said Mary. “Today’s preparers are finding it harder and more complicated to stay in business.”
Mary said she completed more than 300 returns last year but says she doesn’t want to work 18 hour days anymore.
“I want to visit my son in Texas, redo my kitchen and harass all my children,” she said.
Photo: A retirement party for Mary Margaret Judd included (pictured left to right) Mayor Bill Danielson, Scott Moseley, Mary Margaret, Laura Jenkins, sons, Guy Wood and Judd Wood, Robin Moseley and brother, Oscar Judd.
