Over morning tea, staff got together to give goodbye gifts and share some fond and funny memories.

Deputy principal Andrew Thomas presented Mr Melville with his retirement medal.

"A medal to recognise your dedication to the school - you're still doing things around here even after retiring," he laughed.

Mr Melville was trained to teach science but soon after entering the workforce he found his place teaching math at schools in Sydney and Wollongong. He began work at Narooma High in 1975. He left to pursue another position in 1986 before returning to Narooma to become deputy principal in 2009.

He has been acting principal for the past three years and officially retired on July 1.

"He is incredibly generous and a well regarded compassionate person," teacher librarian Christa Mood said.

"He had time for everyone and had a genuine interest in everyone."

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Staff were also sad to say farewell to Mrs Melville's who was the school's learning support officer.

"Pat worked with vulnerable people which can be challenging at times, but she always kept a positive outlook," Todd Helton said.

"She always looked after her colleagues and put the students first.

"I am so glad for my time spent with Pat, and say that on behalf of all the staff and students," he said.

The retired couple have been well-liked personalities around Narooma High School and in the community.

"I will cherish the strong connection with the community which has embraced me as a person," Mr Melville said.

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"I have been at quite a few different schools. When I look back at this school, the support for not only the staff but the students as well is second-to-none."

Mr Melville said he will miss the kids coming into his office for a yarn.

"I always had an open door policy," he said.

Besides a good yarn, Mr Melville is known to catch mulloway with his bare hands. His stories will continue to be shared around the school.