After years of driving a bus through the streets of Western MASS a Leverett woman says it's finally time to hang up her driving gloves.

Barbara Raymond said, "we're going to be stopping here."

And it's for the last time. After 40 years of driving a bus 75 year old Barbara Raymond says it's finally time to turn in her keys. Not an easy decision for a woman who says she could continue to drive, not only because she loves it but also, she loves her passengers.

Raymond Said, "They make the trip, I think."

But her passengers say she's the one who makes their day.
And judging by the farewell signs, hugs and kisses you can tell Barbara will be sorely missed.

Raymond said, "Bye bye, we've had great times, you take care."

Barbara says her passengers were always her number one priority.
And making sure everyone reaches their destination on time is no easy task.

Raymond said, "No matter what the conditions are you've got to get them there safe and on time in that order if you can do it."

In Barbara's 40 years of driving she's never had an accident.
Pretty impressive for such a tiny lady in charge of quite a large bus.

Raymond said, "They say I could probably drive it with my eyes shut, I haven't tried that and I probably best not."

Barbara says she's made many friends over the years for her it was the perfect career.

Raymond said, "Well I love it, I can talk and I can hold a captive audience because they can't leave!"

But now it's time to take off her driving gloves and spend some time out of the drivers seat.

Raymond said, "I think I need time for me now."

Barbara says it's going to take her a few weeks to get used to her new retiree schedule but plans to spend time with her husband and their horses.