As the county bids farewell to Lawrence County Commission President Bill Pratt this week, many are recalling his career of public service and community work, which included time on the Chesapeake Board of Education, the Tri-State Airport Authority, the Lawrence County Community Action Organization and the Lawrence County Economic Development Corporation.

At Tuesday’s meeting of commission, County Auditor Jason Stephens pointed to accomplishments in Pratt’s term, such as the opening of the Proctor’s Landing senior living community in Proctorville, new computers and a finance system in the courthouse, sidewalks in Chesapeake and the paving of Big Branch Road.

In addition, Pratt was remembered for his work on his dairy farm, which had been in his family for generations and his advocacy of agriculture in the county.

Pratt was known for being positive in his dealing with the community, including those of us here at The Tribune, both in and out of government.

Whether it was chatting with him at the county fair or hosting us at his dairy farm for our annual Profile magazine, he was always easy to work with and was forthcoming with information pertaining to the operation of county government.

His dedication and love of the county were evident in his work and deeds, and he will be greatly missed.