Gary Painter was a giant in law enforcement and his shadow continues to loom large over the county a year after his passing.
The former Sheriff of Midland County was found unresponsive at his home last year after serving the county in that role since 1985 Yourbasin.com reported. Painter was a community fixture as a Republican, devout Baptist and Marine Corps veteran. He served the county for more than 50 years.
“He was good for Midland," Midland County Judge Terry Johnson told YourBasin. "Midland is going to miss him."
Painter was highly respected in his profession, rubbing elbows with presidents and spearheading programs within the county. He created the first multi-jurisdictional drug task force in West Texas in addition to the crisis intervention unit at the Sheriff's Department. He is also known for efforts in realizing the dangers of mental illness while serving as an advocate for veterans.
"Honorable man," Johnson told YourBasin. "I knew him all my life here in Midland. He did a lot of good for Midland, the state and the whole country. I pray for his family, I really do,”