James Conroy’s mother was present for the ceremony when he received his badge and became a DeKalb County police officer 28 years ago.
She watched him rise the ranks, eventually being named chief of police in 2013.
Judy Golliher Conroy did not get to see her son's final honor on Tuesday, which was declared "Chief James Conroy Day" in DeKalb County. His final day at work will happen next week.
“I wish she could be here for retirement,” Conroy said. “That wasn’t in the plans.”
Mrs. Conroy died on April 1 at age 81. She raised four children in DeKalb County as a single mother.
The chief said that during his early years on the force his mother would open up her home on holidays to feed officers who had to work and were unable to join their own families. He heard from many of them recently; they mixed well-wishes upon his pending retirement with condolences.
DeKalb CEO Michael Thurmond said he will miss working with Conroy. They partnered to increase pay for police officers, as well as better training and equipment over the past two years. He had served with bravery and integrity, the CEO said.
“Chief, godspeed,” Thurmond said. “Enjoy your retirement. Know that you are loved and that you will always be respected and missed here in DeKalb County.”
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