Four WashCo Sheriff's Department retirees honored with reception
By Evan Carden SA Editor

From left, Thelma Hill, Eunice Johnston, Doris Weaver and Kesler Weaver Sr.

Four employees of the Washington County Sheriff's Department were honored with a reception in the large courtroom of the Washington County Courthouse Friday, March 14.

Eunice Johnston, Thelma Hill, Doris Weaver and Kesler Weaver Sr. were presented gifts and well-wishes and praised by Sheriff Richard Stringer for their years of knowledge that have helped him during his first year in office. "We are looking at 75-80 years of combined knowledge and experience," he said during his opening comments to those in attendance. "That experience has helped me tremendously since I took office."

Doris Weaver has been with the department for 10-1/2 years. She works as a jailer and will continue to do so following her retirement.

"I stuff `em and he cuffs `em," she said jokingly, drawing a large round of laughter from the crowd. "I have really enjoyed working with the sheriff," she continued. "You couldn't ask for anyone better to work with."

Thelma Hill has been with the department for 16-1/2 years. She currently works as a dispatcher. "Now I think it's time to do something else," she said. "I will sit and enjoy my grandchildren."

Millry Police Chief Larry Harkless (standing, left) and Mayor Roy Chapman presented the retirees with certificates of appreciation. (SA photos by Evan Carden)

Eunice Johnston has been employed by the county for 22 years. She began in the probate office, where she worked for 12 years issuing driver's licenses and tags.

In 1979 Johnston moved to the sheriff's office and worked as secretary for Sheriff William Wheat. "There's been a lot of changes in the last year," she said. "I think those changes are for the better and will be better in the year's to come."

"Eunice helped me get acclimated to the sher- iff's office when I came in," said Chief Deputy Terry Beasley. "All of you are very appreciated."

Deputy Kesler Weaver Sr. has been with the department for 29 years and will continue to work on a part-time basis as a reserve deputy. He worked with Sheriff Wheat nearly the entire time he was in office.

Weaver is also employed as the police chief of the MOWA reservation. "I'm sure both departments will progress as a result of the ThyssenKrupp steel mill that is currently under construction, presenting many challenges to the area," he said.

"If I hadn't had some of these folks stay with me, we (the department) wouldn't have come as far as we have in the last year," concluded Sheriff Stringer. "I appreciate their advice and patience with me while I have been learning this job."

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