Burley, Idaho (KMVT-TV) After three decades of service a local lawmaker is retiring.

"I look forward to every day in the Senate today. As much as I did the first day that I was there," said Senator Denton Darrington, (R) District 27.

Denton Darrington is the longest–serving senator in Idaho history.

He was first elected to the state senate in 1982 and currently represents District 27.

"Denton really epitomizes what it's like to be a citizen legislator, go and serve and maintain the dignity of the body," said Lt. Governor Brad Little, (R) Idaho.

Dozens gathered at the Best Western Inn in Burley to celebrate the end of his thirty years of service.

The 72–year old declo native was chairman of the judiciary committee for twenty–three years.

"The Senate and the Legislature is a different place because Denton was such a stickler for protocol and decorum and dignity, fairness," said Lt. Gov. Little.

He played a major role creating the Department of Juvenile Corrections, among other things.

"The passage and the implementation of the Unified Sentencing Act back in the mid–80s that is the standard and the landmark of our criminal justice system today in the State of Idaho," said Sen. Denton.

Darrington announced in March he would not seek a 16th term following a new redistricting that would have had him facing–off against his long–time friend Senator Dean Cameron of Rupert.

Darrington taught American and Idaho history at Burley Junior High for 33 years, before retiring in 1999.