MS HC108

Commends the life and legacy of Sheriff Joel Rayford Thames, who passed away on March 15, 2016, at age 58.

Recognizes Thames as the longest-tenured Sheriff of Lawrence County, Mississippi, serving four consecutive terms from 2000 to 2015 and as President of the Mississippi Sheriffs' Association.

Notes his 14 years of service as a Game Warden with the Mississippi Department of Wildlife, Fisheries and Parks and prior service as a Lawrence County Deputy Sheriff.

Extends deepest sympathy to his surviving family: wife Tammy and sons Landon and Logan.

Directs copies of the resolution be provided to Thames' family, the Mississippi Sheriffs' Association, and the Capitol Press Corps.