Americus blood drive in memory of fallen officers Nicholas Smarr & Jody Smith
AMERICUS, Ga. – The Sumter county community came together Friday to roll up their sleeves to donate blood in memory of two of Americus’ finest.
Not a day goes by when people think about Officers Jody Smith and Nicholas Smarr, two members of law enforcement in Sumter county killed in the line of duty in 2016…
“Well, I remember it was a very emotional time for the whole community when they lost their lives. And, you know, our whole community still remembers that day very, very sincerely. And, we all want to give back in their honor,” said Rene Smith, Americus.
“I remember very well the day that they died. My son works, was working with the sheriff’s department at the time, and he was just devastated when we got the news. And, I’m just glad that I can do this in their honor,” said Gwynelle Arial, Plains.
That’s why the Red Cross and Phoebe Sumter are teaming up to save lives in their own way, in memory of the two officers.
“Well, we know that they gave their lives to keep our area safe. And, so, we just want to do something to give back and keep their name going,” said Denise Burgess, Lab Director, Phoebe Sumter.
Plenty of people in Sumter county knew Jody and Nick and even a couple current members of the Americus Police Department spoke with us about honoring their memory.
“He was a wonderful guy. He was real friendly and he was just a lovable person. So, to keep his name going, it’s an honor. He was a nice guy,” said Janet Schelley, Americus Police Dept.
And… even those who didn’t work with Jody or Nick at the time want to help keep their memory alive.
“We’re always doing something in his name or both of their names, really. And, it just continues…” said Gia Sandwich, Americus Police Dept.
And… no matter who they are, the people who make up Sumter County are keeping Jody and Nick’s memory alive, one pint of blood at a time.
Phoebe Sumter and the Red Cross were busy since a little after eight o’clock this morning and wrapped up early this evening.
Brian Roche reporting.
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