Tyler

By COSHANDRA DILLARD
Staff Writer

Family and friends of long-time Smith County Sheriff J. B. Smith celebrated Smith's legacy during a small swearing-in ceremony at the Cascades Thursday.

Preceding a traditional New Year's meal of black-eyed peas, he thanked the audience for their support during the good and bad times.

"Everyone in this room has had something to do with my tenure," he told the crowd. "All of these people have stood by me."

The 241st District Judge Jack Skeen Jr. administered the oath and lauded Smith for surrounding himself with staff members who have great integrity and character during his nine terms.

"That is absolutely amazing in politics," Skeen said. "Being sheriff is a very difficult political job."

Smith was elected sheriff in 1976 and is one of the two longest serving Texas sheriffs.

On Jan. 1, 1978, he had 28 employees and 58 prisoners, he said. Today, he leads more than 350 employees and has 1,000 plus prisoners.

Smith admits the most difficult part of the job as a public official is dealing with citizens' crises, yet is humbled by the support Smith County residents have given him for 32 years.

"The years have flown by. It feels like I just started yesterday," he said. "Each election has been special because when you are realize that over half of the public thinks you are the best person for the job, that's humbling," he said.

Smith is a graduate of the University of Texas at Tyler and the National FBI Academy.

His participation in nonprofit organizations and on boards includes the Salvation Army, South Tyler Rotary Club, Tyler Chamber of Commerce, East Texas Violent Crimes Task Force, Smith County Historical Society, East Texas Fair Association and Community Justice Council.

SWORN IN: Sheriff J.B. Smith takes the oath of office on Thursday in Tyler. This will be Smith's ninth term as sheriff.
(Staff Photo By Mark Roberts)