A long, faithful run of service to others is something that deserves celebration and commendation of the highest order.

We celebrate and commend James Scott for his 37 years of service as a boys basketball coach at Prince Edward County High School. He continues to teach, coach tennis and operate Ice Cream Delight, but he announced Feb. 8 he would be retiring as a basketball coach at the conclusion of the Eagles’ 2017-18 season.

He spent three years as the Eagles junior varsity head coach and 34 years as varsity head coach.

His extended run with the varsity team led to 524 wins, three appearances in the state’s final four, but more importantly, it led to a host of changed lives.

We were able to break the news of Scott’s retirement announcement on Facebook, and it sparked a long series of tributes from former players and students and people in general who expressed their respect for the him and their appreciation for his impact.

“He has been such a good influence on so many young people in our community,” Lisa Williams Merritt wrote.

Tab Williams wrote, “You were always there with words of wisdom as a teacher and a mentor. You will be missed, sir.”

Alvin Thomas commented, “Thanks for all the ‘Pep talks.’”

“Amazing man, coach and teacher!” Danny Soderholm wrote.

“Job well done, Coach,” Cornell Walker Sr. wrote. “Blessings on your retirement.”

TeOnna Ronae Robertson stated, “This is one of those people you make a movie on! Best coach ever!”

“#RESPECT,” Paul Debnam posted.

Cordero Baker wrote, “We appreciate the years you put in, Coach — hard work, dedication, mentor on and off the court. We wish you nothing but the best, Son!!!”

Coach Scott has long been in the habit of calling his players and students “Son,” and he has given a memorable explanation for this habit that some of his former pupils know well and have shared. He said, “I don’t call you ‘Son’ ‘cause you mine. I call you ‘Sun’ ‘cause you shine!”

So do you, Coach. So do you.