by Miranda G. McLeod
Staff Writer
Twenty-eight members of the Jacksonville Sheriff’s Office representing 859 years of service to the community were recognized by Sheriff John Rutherford at the inaugural retirement ceremony Wednesday. Rutherford said he realized the department was missing the opportunity to recognize the employees. The event also recognized those with 20 or more years of service, and will be held quarterly.
Chaplain James Crosby is retiring after 30 years of service. Crosby was the first police chaplain for the department after being hired in 1976 as a part-time chaplain. He has since officiated numerous weddings, christenings and eulogized many members of JSO and their loved ones.
One officer, Sergeant Albert Johnson Jr., was with the department through Consolidation in 1968. He joined the department in 1966 and has served under four sheriffs.
“It’s been a long road,” said Johnson. His advice for rookies: “Be prepared for a journey. Love what you do and time will just slip by.”
Officer Joan Hay is retiring after 32 years. She’s not sure what she’ll do next, but she knows she won’t sit at home. She may go to work for another agency, or her days may involve a hammock on a lake with a fishing pole.
And Assistant Chief William K. David Jr. is retiring after 34 years. He said he’s going to take it easy and become a better golfer.
Administrator of the Police & Fire Pension Fund John Keane had a few words for the retirees.
“We’re going to give you a remembrance too,” he said. “Every other Friday for the rest of your life.”