For Leighann Willingham, success in the automotive business has been built on much more than selling cars. It has been a journey of taking chances, working hard and building relationships with the people she serves.

Willingham is being recognized by Coosa Valley News as its Person of the Month, honoring her professional accomplishments and the determination that has helped her establish herself as a respected member of the automotive community.

Willingham’s path into the car business was not something she had originally planned. Her career began when she was a customer at Ed Kirby’s and was offered an opportunity to join the dealership.

At the time, making the leap was not an easy decision. As a single mother of two, Willingham said she spent several weeks considering whether she should take the chance.

Ultimately, she decided to do it.

Once she entered the business, Willingham quickly discovered that she had a great deal to learn. Rather than being discouraged, she embraced the challenge and found that she enjoyed the work.

What began as an opportunity became a career.

Her story is one of perseverance and willingness to take a chance when an unexpected opportunity presented itself. What started with a customer visit and a job offer ultimately developed into a successful career in an industry she came to love at Georgia Auto Brokers.

Today, Willingham’s recognition as the Coosa Valley News Person of the Month celebrates those qualities: determination, dedication, professional excellence and a commitment to the people around her.

Her journey serves as a reminder that sometimes the most important career opportunities are the ones we never planned for—and that success comes from having the courage to take the leap and the determination to keep moving forward.