Ex Parte Rhea

We granted the petition for writ of certiorari to review the Court of Civil Appeals' decision, 426 So.2d 835, in a personnel case from Jefferson County. We reverse.

In 1957, Norman L. Rhea became superintendent of the Public Improvements Department for the City of Bessemer. He continued in this employment without incident until February of 1980. On February 4, 1980, Rhea met with William Hyche, City Commissioner of Bessemer in charge of public improvements. At this meeting, Rhea told Hyche that he, Rhea, wished to tender his prospective resignation, if Hyche would accept it. Hyche requested…