A heartfelt ceremony was held on Aug. 24 to dedicate Richland Parish’s Range and Training Center in honor of the late Sheriff Gary Gilley.
The event, fittingly held on Sheriff Gilley’s birthday, was led by Sheriff Neal Harwell, who announced the facility will now bear the name Sheriff Gary Gilley Training Center.
The dedication drew community members, law enforcement officials, and family to celebrate the legacy of a man whose vision shaped local law enforcement training. Representative Francis C. Thompson and the Louisiana House of Representatives were recognized for their official proclamation, and the Richland Parish Police Jury is set to adopt an ordinance to permanently name the center.
Sheriff Neal Harwell makes the dedication of the training center with Gilley’s wife, Judy Gilley and daughters, Krystal Gilley Casey and Jennifer Gilley Gill.
Guest speakers included Louisiana Sheriffs’ Association Director Kevin Cobb, and Brother Rick Aultman, who opened the ceremony with prayer. Sheriff Gilley’s family was honored during the event, which served as a tribute to his enduring impact on the parish.
“He would be proud to see his vision live on,” Sheriff Harwell said, reflecting the sentiment shared by all in attendance.
