The quiet town of St. Mary Parish was shaken to its core as news spread of the passing of Sheriff Blaise Smith. At approximately 2:30 PM on a somber Saturday afternoon, the community mourned the loss of a dedicated public servant, a respected leader, and a beloved family man. In the annals of St. Mary Parish’s history, Sheriff Blaise Smith’s name will forever be etched as a symbol of courage, honor, and selflessness. His passing leaves a void that can never be filled, but his spirit lives on in the hearts of those who knew him.
A Call to Serve
Sheriff Smith’s journey in law enforcement was marked by a steadfast commitment to duty and honor. Sworn in as Sheriff in December 2018, he assumed the mantle of responsibility with humility and determination. His tenure was characterized by a relentless pursuit of justice and a deep-rooted desire to protect and serve his community. Before his tenure as Sheriff, Blaise Smith served his country as a U.S. Army Combat Veteran, demonstrating his courage and selflessness on the battlefield. This sense of duty never wavered as he transitioned to civilian life, choosing to continue his service in a different capacity – safeguarding the streets and neighborhoods he called home.
A Family Man
Beyond his duties as Sheriff, Blaise Smith was known for his unwavering devotion to his family. Married to Karen McGoff, he found solace and strength in her unwavering support. Together, they raised six children, instilling in them the values of integrity, compassion, and resilience. Despite the demands of his role, Sheriff Smith always made time for his family, cherishing every moment spent with his loved ones. As the community mourns his loss and embraces the future with Chief Deputy Gary Driskell at the helm, they do so with a renewed sense of purpose and a commitment to upholding the values for which Sheriff Smith stood.
A Transition of Leadership
In the wake of Sheriff Smith’s passing, the community rallied together to honor his memory and ensure continuity in leadership. Chief Deputy Gary Driskell, a trusted ally and confidant, was appointed as interim Sheriff following Smith’s illness. Driskell’s extensive experience and steadfast dedication to the sheriff’s office made him a natural choice for the role. Chief Deputy Driskell’s journey in law enforcement mirrored that of Sheriff Smith, marked by a deep sense of duty and a commitment to excellence. Elected to the position of Sheriff in October 2023, he had already begun laying the groundwork for his upcoming term. However, the unexpected turn of events thrust him into a position of increased responsibility sooner than anticipated.
Honoring a Legacy
As the community mourns the loss of Sheriff Blaise Smith, they also celebrate his enduring legacy. His impact on St. Mary Parish transcends his time in office, leaving an indelible mark on the hearts and minds of those he served. His dedication to upholding the law, his unwavering integrity, and his profound sense of compassion serve as guiding beacons for future generations of law enforcement officers. Looking ahead, Chief Deputy Gary Driskell stands poised to continue Sheriff Smith’s legacy of service and sacrifice. With his interim appointment paving the way for a seamless transition of leadership, the sheriff’s office remains steadfast in its commitment to protecting and serving the community
