Mary Ann Smith was honored during the latest meeting of the Dallas County Commissioners Court for her five decades of service to the county as a deputy sheriff in the Dallas County Sheriff’s Department.
Smith joined the force on June 1, 1973, according to a document provided by the county. Since then, she has served the county in a variety of ways, including assisting with the start-up of the Henry Wade Juvenile Detention Center.
In 1995 she was certified as a master peace officer, the highest certification a law enforcement officer can achieve.
Smith retired on August 31, 2006, but two months later, she returned to service as a part-time bailiff in the George Allen Courts Building, where she remained until her recent retirement.
“Dallas County Deputy Sheriffs are entrusted to demonstrate exemplary leadership, efficiency, and dedication when serving the community and citizens of Dallas County. Mary Ann has served tirelessly as a Deputy Sheriff with integrity, professionalism, and accountability to meet the Department’s initiatives for our citizens, constituents, and communities,” reads a resolution passed by the commissioners on Tuesday.
Dallas County Sheriff Marian Brown spoke during the meeting, commending Smith for what she had done for county residents.
“We want to say thank you to Deputy Smith for her decades of service. Fifty years is a long time to spend in any one place, and to spend that time with us serving the citizens of Dallas County, we have to say thank you, and we must tell her how much we appreciate her service,” Brown said.
Smith tearfully expressed her appreciation for the recognition, stating that she had enjoyed her time serving the county.
Commissioner Theresa Daniel wished Smith the best in her retirement, noting that her conduct and actions had set a standard.
“How we do business makes a difference, and everything I have ever heard about you has been [you always have] the best intent with people. Everybody. In your mind, and in your heart, and in everything that you did,” said Daniel.
