DeKalb County Commission passed a resolution to honor retiring Sheriff Patrick Ray for his 37 years of service in law enforcement.
Mayor Matt Adcock said the resolution recognizes Ray’s 20 years as sheriff and his steadfast commitment to the citizens of DeKalb County. Ray awarded his gold five-point star sheriff’s badge and his service weapon as a lasting token of appreciation for his distinguished career.
“I just want to thank you, Mayor, and the County Commission for bestowing on me an honor tonight by giving me my service weapon and badge,” Ray said. “That’s something very special to me and something that I’ve strived at for 20 years as your sheriff.”
The resolution commended Ray for his leadership, integrity, professionalism and commitment to DeKalb County citizens. Commissioners unanimously approved the resolution.
Ray said his time as sheriff has included working alongside five different county commissions and three county mayors.
“I just want to tell all of them and all of you thank you for the support that you’ve shown me during my tenure as sheriff,” Ray said.
Ray also used the moment to recognize the sacrifices made by his family during his law enforcement career. Ray said he has served in law enforcement for 37 years and three months and has been married to his wife, Dessa, for 30 of those years. He also thanked his son, PJ, noting that the job often took him away from his family, particularly during his early years as sheriff.
“She’ll tell you, in the beginning of when I got elected, there was a lot of nights that I wasn’t there,” Ray said.
Ray’s departure from the sheriff’s office will not mark the end of his public service. Ray is the county’s mayor-elect and said the transition between the two positions will happen almost immediately.
“Even though this chapter of my life is coming to an end at 11:59 Monday, I look forward to serving you at 12:00 AM on Tuesday morning as your county mayor,” Ray said.
Ray told commissioners and residents that his approach to serving DeKalb County will continue in his new position.
“If anyone ever needs anything from me then I’ll be there to answer that beck and call,” Ray said.
