Al Roker has nothing but love for his long-time co-worker Hoda Kotb. On Sept. 26, Kotb, 60, announced her departure from the Today show to focus on her family. While speaking with PEOPLE at the Food & Wine Classic in Charleston on Saturday,

Al Roker is honoring Hoda Kotb after she announced her departure from the Today show. “It’s taken a little time to process, but I feel nothing but happiness for my dear friend, @hodakotb,” Roker, 70,

Hoda Kotb brought fans and colleagues alike to tears when she announced earlier this week that she is leaving Today after more than five years as co-anchor of the morning show.