To the Editor:

As the citizens of Southampton County witness the budgetary process in these times of expanding governmental needs and scarcity of financial resources in a depressed economy, it may be helpful to pause and reflect upon three wonderful people who have unselfishly given their lives to the service of the citizens of Southampton County.

In particular, in the last six months, Southampton County Sheriff’s Office has lost three extraordinary public servants who have professionally, courageously and skillfully devoted their productive adult lives to the welfare of Southampton County.

Kenny Francis, Jimmy Modlin and Jimmy Covington have not only made Southampton County a safer place but they have performed their duties with decency, respect and unparalleled civility.

Every citizen of Southampton County owes a debt of gratitude to these fine law enforcement officers. With the retirement of these fine gentlemen, every citizen of Southampton County needs to reflect upon the service of these three public servants who have given so much for so little financial reward.

Richard E. Railey Jr.

Courtland