On Friday, members of the Lawrence County Humane Society and the Lawrence County Commission paid tribute to the county’s departing humane officer.

Randy Thompson, who has been in the position for two years, recently stepped down, citing health reasons.

Thompson is a familiar face to many in the county, holding many jobs in public service, from interim chief of Chesapeake’s police force, the Proctorville police force and work at the Lawrence County Department of Job and Family Services.

In addition, he launched the Proctorville Youth Police Academy, an education and community service program for the young.

And he can be found at the Lawrence County Fair every year, assisting with security. His involvement throughout the county is unending.

Thompson is known for his friendly demeanor and sense of humor, in addition to his dedication to his job.

As humane officer, he focused a lot of effort toward educating the public about proper care of animals, rather than simply citing offenders.

As those present Friday said, he brought a lot to the job in two years as humane officer and he will leave big shoes for his successor to fill.

We wish Thompson well as he focuses on his health and commend him for his work as a true public servant in all of his jobs in Lawrence County.