Holly MatkinRainelle, WV – Greenbrier County Sheriff’s Department (GCSD) Lieutenant Charles “Smitty” Smith died unexpectedly on Feb. 1, according to his department.
The 43-year-old lieutenant’s exact cause of death was not immediately released.
The GCSD confirmed the veteran deputy’s death in a Facebook post the following day.
“It is with deep sadness that the Greenbrier County Sheriff’s Department announces the untimely passing of Lieutenant Charles R. Smith, an eighteen-year veteran of the Sheriff’s Department,” the agency said.
In addition to his career in law enforcement, Lt. Smith also served more than 20 years in the Army National Guard, according to his obituary.
He recently retired from the military at the rank of Master Sergeant.
Lt. Smith, who served alongside his four-legged partner, K9 Thelma, devoted nearly 20 years of his life to the GCSD.
Hundreds of people extended their condolences to the GCSD and Lt. Smith’s family in the wake of the department’s announcement.
“Rest in peace brother, we will take the watch from here,” one message read. “May your family both Blood and Blue find peace.”
“So terribly tragic. Prayers for peace and comfort for his family and the department,” another person wrote. “Smitty was top flight police and overall a great guy. A huge loss.”
Many people expressed their thankfulness for Lt. Smith’s nearly two decades of service.
“Thankful for the service of Lt. Smith,” one message read. “Prayers for family and friends and prayers for all police and K9 officers!”
Lt. Smith leaves behind his wife, Ashley, and his children, Cale, Isabelle, Peyton, Wesley, and Madilyn, according to his obituary.
He is also survived by his parents, brother, sister, nephews, nieces, and many friends.
Lt. Smith was laid to rest on Feb. 9.
Our thoughts and prayers are with the family of Greenbrier County Sheriff’s Department Lieutenant Charles “Smitty” Smith, both blood and blue. Thank you for your service.
Rest easy, hero. We’ll hold the line from here.
