I know it’s inevitable that all of us will die someday. The reality that we will all die doesn’t make life meaningless. It simply makes the questions of one’s legacy or how you will be remembered more urgent.
I sit here and ponder about the many talented actors and actresses we have lost this year, such as Chuck Norris, Dolly Parton and Robert Duvall, just to name a few. I still miss John Wayne and watch his movies regularly. Sir Patrick Stewart died recently. If you’re a Star Trek fan, he was Capt. Picard.
All of them are remembered for being talented in their field and many of them were kind and remembered for attributes not associated with their acting abilities. I have lost several friends and family members over the last year, many of them, I will never forget.
Last week I learned that Judge Hall Ridley died. Several months ago, we lost Judge Joe Ned Dean. Again, one who was sometimes larger than life. I have known Judge Ridley for most of my law enforcement career, which spans almost 30 years.
When I first met him, he was a local attorney, who practiced criminal and civil law in Walker County. He was a large man, who talked loud, balding on top with a ponytail. Yet he was fair and once you got to know him, you quickly discovered he had a big heart that cared for others.
He was a graduate of Texas A&M University and was an Army veteran and wasn’t shy about talking about it. As a judge in the 278th Judicial District, I found him to be just in his rulings and easy to talk to, even if he ruled against me.
However, he was no-nonsense on the bench and would quickly remind you of how the cow ate the cabbage. I would visit with him in his chambers. He would often be listening to an old Texas Ranger broadcast from the ‘50s or some other broadcast from the past, on his radio, as we discussed an investigation or just discussed life. He has influenced and molded me into the police officer I am today. I will miss him and will be forever thankful for knowing him.
As philosopher William James put it, “The greatest use of life is to spend it for something that will outlast it.” I believe our legacy is less about what you own or achieve, and more about what you leave in people through your actions, values, and kindness.
So, how will you be remembered? What will be your legacy?
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Steven Jeter is Chief of Police in Trinity.
