Blaise Smith Obituary, Death – The community of St. Mary Parish mourns the loss of Sheriff Blaise Smith, a dedicated public servant who served with honor and distinction. Sheriff Smith’s passing leaves a profound void in our hearts and our community, as we remember his unwavering commitment to the safety and well-being of the people he swore to protect.
A Legacy of Service
Sheriff Blaise Smith’s journey of service began long before he took office as Sheriff in December 2018. As a U.S. Army Combat Veteran, Sheriff Smith demonstrated courage, integrity, and leadership on the battlefield, qualities that he carried with him throughout his career in law enforcement. His dedication to serving his country and his community was unwavering, and his impact will be felt for years to come.
A Family Man
Beyond his role as Sheriff, Blaise Smith was a loving husband to Karen McGoff and a devoted father to six children. His family was at the center of his life, and he cherished every moment spent with them. Sheriff Smith’s love and support for his family extended beyond the walls of his home, as he worked tirelessly to create a safer and more secure community for all families in St. Mary Parish.
A Trusted Leader
During his tenure as Sheriff, Blaise Smith earned the respect and admiration of his colleagues, peers, and the community at large. His leadership was characterized by compassion, professionalism, and a steadfast commitment to justice. Sheriff Smith led by example, instilling a sense of pride and purpose in those he served alongside, and his legacy as a trusted leader will endure for generations to come.
A Period of Transition
Following Sheriff Smith’s passing, Chief Deputy Gary Driskell has been appointed as the interim Sheriff of St. Mary Parish. Chief Deputy Driskell, who was elected to the seat in October 2023, brings a wealth of experience and a deep commitment to the principles of service and integrity that Sheriff Smith embodied. As interim Sheriff, Chief Deputy Driskell will continue Sheriff Smith’s legacy of excellence while guiding the department through this period of transition.
Looking Ahead
As the community mourns the loss of Sheriff Blaise Smith, we also look ahead to the future with hope and determination. Sheriff-elect Gary Driskell’s upcoming term, expected to start in July 2024, represents a new chapter in the history of St. Mary Parish Sheriff’s Office. With Chief Deputy Driskell at the helm, we are confident that the department will continue to uphold the values of integrity, professionalism, and dedication to service that Sheriff Smith held dear.
Honoring Sheriff Smith’s Memory
In honoring the memory of Sheriff Blaise Smith, let us reaffirm our commitment to the ideals of service, sacrifice, and community that he exemplified throughout his life. Let us honor his legacy by supporting the men and women of law enforcement who continue to uphold the values of justice, integrity, and compassion that Sheriff Smith embodied. Though he may no longer be with us in body, his spirit and his legacy will live on in the hearts and minds of all who had the privilege of knowing him.
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