strange leaving gifts or nothing at all

I had a gift from colleagues when I retired (nothing big). It definitely had nothing to do with management. I invited people to a get together in the local pub after work the week before I left and we had a good evening. My manager did not bother to go to that.

I'm quite shocked by your sad stories. Where I worked there was a tradition of always giving people a good sendoff, whatever the reason for leaving - party, gifts, even sometimes speeches. It was often me who did the collection, buying, planning etc.Good excuse for an afternoon off for all the staff.
So I got the same - I've kept the book of photos from the party.

I had a lovely leaving do and presentation ( Council)

I received a cast of an Echinoid on a rough block of Aberdeenshire granite. ?
Still have it somewhere. I think!

I was very lucky, I received a spa day voucher from my workmates along with some beautiful flowers and lots of cards and gifts from the children I taught. We all went out for dinner too.

Although I'd only worked in my last job for two years prior to retirement, I had a nice send off. All our colleagues went out for a pub lunch together where I was presented with a silver necklace and a "thank you" speech from my manager and a farewell card signed by all.
I felt sad to leave but at the same time happy to be moving on to retirement and freedom from the constraints of working life.

I was teaching when my daughter was suddenly widowed (shortly after her first child was born prematurely) and I never returned to work after getting the news. Even though I was unable to give notice to the school the Headmaster and other staff were incredibly understanding. I was asked to return two months later for the end of term assembly so that my pupils could say a proper goodbye. The gifts they gave me were all thoughtfully chosen, but the greatest of all was that my students made little speeches of thanks. I was completely undone.

All my crystal vases were leaving gifts from colleagues at work. Very thoughtful as it showed how well they knew me - wherever I've worked I've always had a plant or flowers on my desk.

Judy54 I think it's sad that your colleagues (even as individuals) were not prepared to mark your retirement fittingly.