Beckley, WV (WOAY) “It’s all I wanted to do. It was literally my dream job from the point I was a child on up,” recalled Captain Larry Lilly, now retired, reminiscing on 29-and-a-half years in law enforcement.
This Thursday, the Raleigh County Sheriff’s Department held Lilly’s retirement celebration luncheon, where many of Lilly’s long-time friends honored his storied career.
“It’s bittersweet just because, you know, I just enjoy being around these folks, but I can’t wait to have more time for my family. I mean, this job is a job that everybody that does it has to give up a lot. And actually, your family probably sacrifices more than you do. And to be able to give back to them…”
Captain Lilly has served the county as a patrol deputy, a detective, chief deputy, and multiple leadership roles. Sheriff Frank Priddy said that the whole department will miss him.
“Captain Lilly’s a great guy. He’s probably one of the most liked and respected people in this department and in law enforcement in Raleigh County… At different agencies, we’ve worked together for over 20 years… We’re all very, very happy for him to have this opportunity to retire. That’s what you work for… He’s going to be really missed. He’ll be missed by all of us.”
The retirement luncheon was bustling with friends, family, and fellow officers, many of whom Lilly thanked for their support throughout his career. Above all, Lilly thanked his wife for her endless support:
“On a bad call-out, we might be out two or three days, and I never had to ask; she showed up with food for these detectives that I was working with. She just took care of us, always… And I intend to use this extra time to help you now.”
Lilly plans to stay in touch with his fellow officers, refine his woodworking, and most importantly, spend time with his family.
