DeSoto County celebrates retirement of Vanessa Lynchard and Glen Davidson

Photo: Retiring county administrator Vanessa Lynchard and long-time employee Glen Davidson, both of whom completed careers with the county Wednesday. (Credit DeSoto County Government on Facebook)

HERNANDO, Miss. – As the sun set for the last time in 2025 Wednesday, DeSoto County bade a fond farewell to two pillars of public service. County Administrator Vanessa Lynchard and County Courier Glen Davidson officially retired, marking the conclusion of two careers that collectively spanned nearly nine decades.

A retirement celebration was held Wednesday at the DeSoto County Administration Building. Mayors from Hernando, Horn Lake, and Walls joined families and friends to celebrate Lynchard and Davidson, as well as past and present county employees.

Decades of Leadership and Service

Lynchard, who has served as County Administrator since 2012, was recognized for her steady hand during a period of unprecedented regional growth. Under her leadership, the county managed a $350 million budget while maintaining more than two decades without a property tax increase.

“Vanessa’s decades of service helped turn vision into action,” the Board of Supervisors said in a statement. “She kept the work of the Board moving forward day after day.”

Beside her stood Davidson, the county’s longest-tenured employee. With a career spanning over five decades, Davidson has been the “face of the county” for many, navigating the halls of the Courthouse and Administration buildings as the primary courier.

“Glen delivered more than mail,” officials noted. “He delivered consistency, kindness, and a deep-seated pride in public service that inspired everyone he met.”

Looking Ahead

While their daily presence in the Courthouse Square will be missed, their legacies are firmly established. Lynchard’s role will be assumed by Andrea Pettigrew, who has spent the last year working closely with Lynchard to ensure a seamless transition. Davidson, meanwhile, leaves behind a record of service unlikely to be broken anytime soon.