My first experience with him was when I was in the first grade at Nichols School, he was the principal. That was 57 years ago. I've known Mr. Duff in one way or another ever since. When I first went on county commission in 2002, my seat was beside him. That many years later, I was still about as afraid of him as I was in the first grade. He still had that intimidating principal look.

Truth of the matter is, Harold Duff was one of the kindest, even tempered, nicest men you would ever know. He had a quiet, serious demeanor about him, but he was a cut up too. We had a lot of fun working together all these years on commission. Sometimes we agreed and sometimes we didn't, but we always remained friends.

He has served 28 years on the county commission representing the 5th district. He was just re-elected to an eighth term back in August. You can't have that kind of record unless you have the respect and support of a lot of people for a lot of years. 

Mr. Duff dedicated his adult life to community service whether in education or government and has touched the lives of literally tens of thousands of people. I know his family and all who knew him mourn his passing, but what an incredible legacy he leaves behind that will be unmatched by most of us.

I will certainly miss my friend and working with Mr. Duff, but he leaves us all better persons for having known him.

Rest In Peace my friend.