By Rodney Dunigan
SMYRNA, Tenn. - After more than 50 years on the job, the principal at Smyrna High is saying goodbye. Robert "Bud" Raikes has literally educated generations of families in Rutherford County.
Loved in the community, the school's football stadium even bears his name. Many believe his impact will be felt long after this final school bell rings.
As the old saying goes, life passes by in the blink of an eye. Robert Raikes knows that all too well. For more than 60 years Raikes has had a connection with Smyrna High. He was a student and a coach. He met his wife at the school and his two daughters graduated from Smyrna High. For 37 years he's been the principal.
"I've always said I just drive the bus. The others are doing all the work, but I've enjoyed doing it," Raikes told NewsChannel 5.
He's spent the past few weeks packing a life time of memories. He is finally set to retire and said it was time.
"I look forward to spending time with my wife. I've spent most of my time with everybody else's kids. I've averaged about 10 hours every a day here at school maybe a little better. It's going to be hard but I got to do it," said Raikes.
Head custodian George Miller knows Raikes well. Not only did he give him a job nearly 25 years ago. He was Miller's coach when he was a star athlete at Smyrna. Miller counts Raikes as more than a boss; he describes him as a friend who'll be missed by the staff and students.
"I grabbed him by the arm the other day and I told him I really appreciate you giving me a chance. It's going to be different, everybody's going to miss him," said Miller.
Next Monday will officially be Raikes last day on the job. No replacement has been named.
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