Harold Hunter was one of Russellville's most successful coaches ever before becoming the school's principal. He later resigned to become a leader in industry. John DeVasier graduated from RHS in 1969.

In 1977, I was called for an interview for the assistant production managers job at Smith-Douglas Fertilizer. I was interviewed by Johnny Bob Powers, a Todd County native. All must have gone well as I was hired a few days later. I knew nothing about the operation and was not prepared for what was to come  

I was introduced to Mr. Harold Hunter, the plant manager. With most of my nerves screaming, I had remembered Mr. Hunter as the head football coach at RHS and also remembered that he was very strict and commanded respect. I thought " oh, boy here we go!”

My primary job was assistant to Mr. Powers with not much contact with Mr. Hunter. Everything was rolling along fairly well until one day Johnny Bob was not there anymore, and I had only been on the job for three months. Mr. Hunter called me to his office and told me to close the door.

I had already figured out that I was next to go out the door. I was wrong- he announced that he wanted me to be the production manager. I thought for a few minutes and told him that I was not qualified, I had no training to be able to properly run the plant. At that moment , I saw Mr. Hunter change. He said, " I will teach you and we will get through this together."

We worked together for about six years. During that time , there was never a cross word between us. He was still the "Coach." He taught, guided, instructed, observed my progress. One of his rules of management was "familiarity breeds contempt,” which means, "I will maintain a employer/employee relationship, nothing more.”

His heart said something different. I never addressed him as "Coach," but I would occasionally answer him "not a problem, Coach," and I could see the little smile. His wisdom and knowledge, not just about the fertilizer business, but about life and how to solve life’s problems had a lasting and positive effect on my life. So many things he said took me years to understand. They were all true & priceless lessons in life.

He was a great teacher and I miss him to this day. Russellville High had a true hero, teacher, coach and friend.