After more than two decades of dedicated service, Mrs. Angie Gaddis has officially retired from the DeSoto Parish Sheriff’s Office (DPSO). Gaddis joined the department in April 2004 and spent over 21 years in the Civil Department performing a wide range of duties, from collecting taxes and processing background checks to handling fingerprints and assisting the public.

Sheriff Jayson Richardson hosted a retirement celebration on Friday, where Gaddis was surrounded by colleagues and friends offering their congratulations and well wishes.

“This job requires a good heart and a good sense of humor,” Gaddis reflected. “There are days where you simply greet people you don’t know with a smile, and other days you may be praying and crying with someone as well.”

Over the past year, Gaddis helped train new employees, worked the phones for the Sheriff’s Office, and assisted countless residents who walked through the front doors seeking help. She also served as an events chairperson for the department. Among her favorite memories was participating with DPSO in the Special Olympics in 2011, when she helped lead the softball and special needs teams to a gold medal.

Looking ahead, Gaddis said she is excited to spend more time with family and friends and embrace whatever opportunities come her way.

The DeSoto Parish Sheriff’s Office thanked Gaddis for her years of service and her positive impact on the community. “We are grateful for Angie’s dedication to the residents of DeSoto Parish and her friendship to so many along the way,” the department said in a statement.