Ken Ard, who resigned Friday as South Carolina's Lieutenant Governor, was born and raised in the Florence County community of Pamplico.
From 2004 to 2010, he represented the small town on Florence County Council.
Many people in Pamplico know Ard and hold him in high esteem. They say they're disappointed Ard resigned after pleading guilty to violating state ethics laws.
"I hate that its come about this way. I don't know why and all that, like I said I know he's done a lot of for us," said Jimmy Hicks.
"My heart is broken. We love him. We're going to miss him, but nobody's perfect," said Nancy Cromer.
Florence County Council Chairman Rusty Smith echoes those sentiments. He served with Ard on Florence County Council and called Ard a good man who meant to do well by the people of this state.
"Unfortunately he made some mistakes, and I think he bore the responsibilities of accepting the responsibilities, said it was his fault, and hopefully it can be worked out eventually. Unfortunately for the state and Mr. Ard we'll have to move forward," said Rusty Smith.
Despite the guilty plea, many in Pamplico still regard Ard as a leader for being one of the first from their community to hold a major office in our state.
