The lives of all those who packed Cattleman Park Sunday afternoon have been impacted in some way by Tammy Powell. And, most of those through their association with Powell as coordinator of the Pike County Extension Office.

For many Powell is “4-H.”

Vicki Bowen, a former Pike County 4-H Club member, perhaps said it best.

“Mrs. Powell is a legacy,” she said. “She has made each of our lives better and her legacy lives in all of us.”

Powell was honor with a retirement reception at Cattleman Park Sunday afternoon. Family, friends, 4-H’ers past and present and those who have worked with Powell over the past 32 years with the Alabama Extension System gathered to wish her all the best in her retirement years.

Twenty-six of Powell’s years with the Alabama Extension System have been at the Pike County Extension Office. She has positively influenced thousands of young people through the 4-H Clubs. However, her influence did not stop there, said John Dorrill.

“Tammy has been very supportive of all farming organizations,” Dorrill said. “The Pike County Farmers Federation, the Pike County Cattlemen’s Association, the Pike County Cattlewomen’s Association and the Wiregrass market Association have all benefited from her leadership. She will be missed but we still expect her to a part of all that we do.”

Powell said she was humbled and honored by the recognition and the outpouring of well wishes extended to her.

“I’m an only child but I am blessed to have such a huge extended family,” she said. “I thank all of you for helping me make it through all these years.”

See Tuesday’s Messenger for more.