PARKERSBURG - Longtime Wood County Sheriff's Department Lt. Tom Smith was honored Thursday on his retirement.
Three deputies were promoted and two civilians in the sheriff's department received promotions as well during a ceremony conducted Thursday at Fort Boreman Historic Park. Smith was praised by sheriff's department officials and presented his service revolver. Although retiring as a deputy, Smith will continue to work at the sheriff's department, serving as director of administrative operations.
"I've known Tom for a number of years, including when I was with the Parkersburg Police Department. He has proven to be an invaluable resource to the sheriff's department and very helpful during the recent transition in the sheriff's office," said Don Dougherty, chief law enforcement deputy.
"Lt. Smith has served under four different sheriffs, three of whom are present here today for his retirement," Sheriff Jeff Sandy said, indicating former sheriffs Ken Merritt and Steve Greiner who attended Thursday's ceremony.
"Tom has been very special to the citizens of Wood County," Sandy said, presenting him his retirement badge for 31 years of service to the county.
"Thirty-one years is a long time to serve in any job and certainly a long time to serve as a police officer. I have had the honor and privilege to serve with Tom while I've been a county commissioner and as a fellow former police officer. He was always professional in everything he did, a real gentleman, always did a good job, and he will be missed as a deputy in the department," Wood County Commission President Rick Modesitt said.
Also Thursday, three deputies received promotions. Shawn Graham was promoted to lieutenant; Kent Stephens and Barry Murphy to sergeant.
Sheriff's department employees Jeff Mace was promoted to assistant chief tax deputy, and Teresa Wade was promoted to assistant director of administrative operations.
