As hurricane season opened Tuesday, so did another season for one of Pike County’s weather officials.

Emergency Management Agency Director Larry Davis began his journey to retirement Tuesday, but he didn’t do so without a farewell from county officials and friends.

“Out of all the people I interviewed for the job, he was the one to not speak up right away. He’ll rub his head and think about what he was going to say, and that made an impression on me,” said Pike County Commissioner Charlie Harris.

“I’ve never seen a man so willing be so slow. He never gets in a hurry, and I like that about him.”

But, it wasn’t just county officials who had something to say.

“Mr. D believes in getting the job done. But he also believes in getting out there and helping you get the job done. He tells you what to do you and he shows you what to do,” said Brundidge Police Chief Moses Davenport.

Jeanna Barnes, who will take the reigns from Davis, had a few things to say about her “role model.”

“I just want to say thank you for taking me in and showing me the ropes,” said an emotional Barnes.

“I hope they keep supporting you, Jeanna. I think you’re going to take it to the next level where it needs to go,” Davis said as he accepted the kind words of appreciation.

Davis was showered with praise, appreciation, cards and fishing gear to start his retirement off right.

“Just want to say this, you’re retired from getting paid, but you ain’t retired from EMA,” said Brundidge City Councilman Lawrence Bowden.