The line of visitors snaked through Limestone County Event Center as dozens of folks turned out to wish Jerry Batts and James Woodroof Jr. well in their future endeavors.

Woodroof, who acted as Limestone County Circuit Court Place 1 judge, and Batts, Limestone County District Judge Place 2, held a joint retirement party Friday. The two have been active in the Limestone County legal arena for the better part of the last four decades and are just as well known for their civil service outside the courtroom.

Athens Mayor Ronnie Marks presented each with a key to the city and Limestone County Commission Chairman Mark Yarbrough awarded them a specially minted Limestone County coin.

Yarbrough said he will miss the two men’s experience in the courtroom, but is thankful they will still be living and volunteering in the community with their wives, Amy Woodroof and Marilyn Batts.

Both Woodroof and Batts acted as private attorneys before moving up the judicial ladder. Woodroof was the municipal judge for the city of Athens from 1987 to 1996, after which time he was elected and re-elected to the Circuit Court judgeship. The judge said he was “incredibly honored” to serve Limestone County, a community he loves.

“I tell ya, it’s a real bittersweet day for me and my family,” Woodroof said Friday. “I have truly loved serving you these last 20 years.”

Woodroof also said he believes Limestone County’s Bar Association is the finest in the state, providing him with great colleagues and friends.

“It’s been a wonderful thing,” he said. “I kinda’ think we get it right, here in Limestone. You’ve gifted me with 20-plus great years.”

Serving alongside Batts has been one of the highlights of his career.

“What an incredible honor it’s been to have a friend and a co-judge like Jerry Batts,” he said. “Just today, going out together is special for both of us.”

Jerry L. Batts was a private-practice attorney until he was elected to the 39^th Judicial Circuit in 2004. Retirement, just snuck up on him, he said.

“I’m the best evidence of a merciful God, because I have been blessed far more than I deserve,” Batts told well-wishers Friday. “It’s been a great day, each day, just to go to work.”

In his line of business, the judge said he was fortunate enough to work alongside people he harbors respect for.

“It’s just been a great ride,” he said.