Soul of 78- Clyda Garrison
Server, Los Reyes Grill
Words by Logan Fowler | Image by Al Blanton
At Los Reyes Grill in the heart of downtown Jasper, Alabama, there is a name many locals know long before they ever take their seat: Momma G.
Clyda Garrison has been a fixture at the Mexican restaurant since day one. Her presence has become as much a part of the experience as the sizzling fajitas drizzled in warm queso.
The nickname came naturally. Clyda’s daughter, who also worked at the restaurant in its early days, went around calling her “Momma.” Over time, the name stuck. Now, regulars do not just recognize it. They ask for it, routinely requesting Momma G to serve them as soon as they walk through the door.
“When we got a new point of sale system, Carlos (Pedraza) even registered my name as Momma G!” Clyda says.
Having spent her career in various customer service roles, Clyda views serving as far more than delivering food and clearing plates. For her, it is about connection and making people feel seen, welcomed, and valued.
“Just seeing people smile brings me joy,” Clyda says. “I have been in restaurants where I just didn't feel very welcome. So, I like to make people feel like they're welcome here.”
A day in Clyda’s shoes, however, is anything but leisurely. After making the 45-minute drive from her hometown in Winston County, she steps into a fast paced, demanding environment where tables turn quickly and orders come in nonstop.
“It's just chaotic and you’ve gotta have your running shoes on, for sure. You definitely have to know how to multitask, or you're not gonna make it,” Clyda says.
Beyond the bustle of the dining room, Clyda’s life has been deeply shaped by her family and her faith. She reflects fondly on her aunt Kathy, who played a pivotal role in her life before passing away from cancer in 2017. “She was always a very loving people person,” Clyda says.
Clyda says her work ethic has always been rooted in providing the best life possible for her family. “As far as my kids are concerned, I’ve always worked hard to make sure they have what they need,” she says.
Outside of work, Clyda finds joy in quieter moments. She enjoys doing daily puzzles, shopping, attending church, and spending time outdoors. When the weather allows, she likes riding her e-bike and camping with her family.
After 13 years at Los Reyes, Momma G has watched the restaurant grow and evolve, even as her approach has remained the same. Day after day, she continues to be the heartbeat of the dining room, offering care, consistency, and a genuine smile to everyone she serves.
“I just hope that I'm shining some type of light toward the customers, and that I show that I do care,” Clyda says. “And if something is not right, then I'm going to try my best to make it right, because I definitely want them to come back. I feel like we've got a very good business.”
For many in Jasper, a meal at Los Reyes is not complete without Clyda’s familiar warmth, a reminder that hospitality is as much about heart as it is about service. 78