(NHPR photo) After serving as New Hampshire Secretary of State for more than 40 years, William "Bill" Gardner, at left in a recent press conference with Gov. Chris Sununu, announced Monday he is retiring.

CONCORD — Jimmy Carter, who is now 97 years old, was just 53 and newly-minted U.S. president when, up in New Hampshire, William “Bill” Gardner stepped into the role of Secretary of State, a post he would hold for 45 years.

Gardner, 73, announced Monday he is stepping down, a decision that will become official “after arrangements have been made for the constitutional deputy Dave Scanlan to take the oath of office.”

Known across the spectrum as an approachable office-holder who endeared himself to most of his fellow Granite Staters as a fervent defender of New Hampshire’s First-in-the-Nation presidential primary, Gardner served with 11 governors, 17 state Senate presidents, 13 House speakers and 14 attorneys general.

“I will be forever grateful for the adventure of serving the people of our state in our State House,” Gardner said in announcing his retirement.

“I know the office which I leave will be in good hands. And that is it.”

Dean Shalhoup may be reached at 594-1256 or dshalhoup@nashuatelegraph.com.