Pulaski County Commissioner Jenna Mashburn and Kenny White stand in front of the new Kenny White Pickleball Facility sign, dedicated in his honor after 30 years of service.

HAWKINSVILLE — Kenny White is retiring after 30 years as director of the Hawkinsville-Pulaski County Recreation Department. His last official day on the job is June 30.

More than 80 people gathered on June 11 to celebrate his career. The crowd included friends, family, coaches and former players. The Hawkinsville-Pulaski County Recreation Department hosted the event.

New Pickleball Facility Named in His Honor

The celebration also marked a major milestone for the county. A brand-new pickleball facility is now open to the public. It carries his name: the Kenny White Pickleball Facility.

The new facility honors White’s decades of work building and leading the county’s recreation programs.

White Reflects on Being Hired in 1996

White was hired in 1996. During his speech, he reflected on the moment the board took a chance on him.

“After working here a few years, I realized that God put me here,” White said. His voice broke with emotion as he spoke.

White thanked the board members who hired him nearly 30 years ago. He also thanked the city of Hawkinsville and Pulaski County for their support throughout his tenure.

He credited small-town recreation departments for the close relationships they make possible. White said he cherishes those bonds with coaches, co-workers and the kids who came through the county’s programs.

He also thanked his family. “That means a lot,” White said.

Commissioner Presents Engraved Bat

Commissioner Jenna Mashburn presents Kenny White with an engraved wooden bat honoring his 30 years as Hawkinsville-Pulaski County Recreation Department director, as City Manager Sara Myers and others applaud.

Pulaski County Commissioner Jenna Mashburn presented White with a wooden bat during the celebration. The bat is engraved with his name and the years he served.

The gift honored his three decades of leadership over the county’s youth sports programs.

A Legacy of State Championships

White’s tenure produced strong results on the field. Recreation teams under his direction sent numerous all-star teams to state competition. Those teams competed across multiple sports, including baseball and softball.

His years as director included several state runner-up finishes. The county also won one state championship under his leadership.

A Faith-Centered Farewell

White closed his speech with a reflection on faith. He told the crowd that relationships matter, but one relationship matters most.

“Those relationships with each other are great, but your relationship with the Lord is more important,” White said. His voice broke again as he finished.

Friends, family, coaches and former players gather on the gymnasium floor to honor Kenny White’s 30 years of service to the Hawkinsville-Pulaski County Recreation Department.

Cal Young to Take Over as Director

Cal Young will succeed White as director of the Hawkinsville-Pulaski County Recreation Department.

The Kenny White Pickleball Facility is open now for public use.