THOMASVILLE — Henry Williams never wore a Thomas County Sheriff’s Office badge in his close to 30-year law enforcement career. The sheriff’s office changed that. 

Williams, who retired from Thomasville Police Department after “29 years, five months, and 15 days,” was presented with a retirement badge from the Thomas County Sheriff’s Office. 

“I was completely astounded,” Williams said. “Them boys didn’t have to do that.” 

A former criminal investigation division assistant commander and road patrol sergeant, Williams said he worked with Sheriff Carlton Powell and the sheriff’s office his entire career, and has the “utmost respect” for county law enforcement. 

“I love everyone one them like a brother and sister,” Williams said.  

Powell said Williams was always there for the Thomas County Sheriff’s Office and always dependable. 

“We just had a long-time relationship,” Powell said of Williams and the sheriff’s office. 

The sheriff added: “He was just a cop’s cop.” 

Capt. Steven Jones, sheriff’s office public information officer, said Williams is a friend to all law enforcement. 

“You couldn’t ask for a better example and role model than Henry,” Jones said. 

Thomas County/Thomasville Narcotics/Vice Division Commander Louis Schofill said Williams was his “invaluable” field training officer during his law enforcement origins. 

“He was, is, and always will be, extremely helpful,” the drug squad commander said. “It’s a testament to his law enforcement career.” 

“He’s greatly missed here,” Schofill added. 

Reporter Jordan Barela can be reached at (229) 226-2400, ext. 1826.