A resignation letter from long-time member of the Board of Education John Roche was read aloud at Monday night's meeting.

Roche, 79, is said to be one of the longest, if not the longest, serving school board members in the state. The letter cited health problems as the primary reason for cutting his term short. Roche would have been up for election in November.

“It is with great regret that I am hereby tendering my resignation from the Newberry County Board of Trustees,” the letter read. “I would like to express my appreciation to you, District 1 and the School Board members for allowing me to serve the Board of Trustees for approximately 48 years. My best wishes for your continued success.”

“It is with sincere regrets that we accept the resignation of Dr. John F. Roche,” said board chair Don Saylor.

“We have had some good times and some trying times,” said fellow board member Clyde Hill. “He was more concerned about the work of the School District and the children that we serve.”

“There was never any question about where his heart was when he was making decisions,” added Superintendent Bennie Bennett. “He has definitely made his mark in this School District and in this community.”

The district will likely hold a special election to fill Roche's seat before November, but Brenda Rogers of the Newberry County Voter Registration and Election office said election details are uncertain at this time. Procedures will depend on district bylaws, which haven't been examined yet. Rogers did say candidates will need a petition with the signatures of 2 percent of District 1 and a $100 filing fee.