PHOENIX — When 15-year-old Payton Bock got her driver's permit, she drove straight to McDonald's, but not because she was craving a Big Mac.
"She wanted to go through the drive-through and show Mary she was driving," Bock's mother, DeLynne, said. "She couldn't wait."
Mary Moss has worked at the drive-through window at McDonald's in Chandler for four years, and in that time she has built up a fan base.
"No matter how bad a day you are having, she has a way of making you feel better," customer Christie Kielman said. "Sometimes we go to McDonald's just to see her."
On a whim last month DeLynne Bock created a Facebook group called "I love Mary McDonalds Chandler," and what began as a few members has turned into hundreds.
"It just exploded, and every time I check there are more and more people who have been impacted by her," DeLynne said. "There is just something special about her."
People are also reading…
Although the Facebook page is in its infancy, the fan base is not, according to Mary and Michelle Adair, the owners of the McDonald's where Moss works.
"We have gotten positive feedback verbally and through letters since Mary started with us," Michelle said. "We are committed to serving our customers, and Mary sets an example for all employees in this area."
During the holidays, Moss receives cookies and presents, which pile up on the break room table, from her loyal drive-through guests. One 5-year-old girl had her mom drop off a foot bath when Moss was out sick, and several teenagers on Facebook commented on how disappointed they are when Moss is not there.
Moss didn't even know what Facebook was until a customer told her about her fan page a few weeks back.
"It's just amazing because I know all their faces even if I don't know all their names," Moss said. "Someone showed me the Web site and I just couldn't believe it."
Moss said working at McDonald's is more than just a job.
"I think a lot of people just expect quick service, and it surprises them when they get a certain amount of personal attention," Moss said. "Sometimes all it takes is a smile and a quick compliment to turn their day around."
