Warren County Election Commission administrator Donna Smith is retiring after 42 years of service.

She was hired in 1976. After a year as a deputy in the department, she was appointed administrator.

“I’ll be 62 next month and through the grace of God, I’ve gotten there almost,” said Smith. “I just want to say what an honor it has been to serve every candidate, every citizen of this county. I love Warren County. I wouldn’t want to live anywhere else and unless I go completely crazy, I probably never will. It is a great community.”

The current Election Commissioners are Bill Webb, Patricia Davis, Ben Nixon, Bill Lee, and Charles Yancy. They will be tasked with finding her replacement. The five oversee the operation of the commission and are appointed by the state.

“I’ve worked for, I think, around 32 election commissioners over the last 40 plus years,” said Smith. “Without their support and their encouragement, I could not have done my job.”

“Those three ladies in the office, I can’t tell you what they mean to me, both professionally and personally,” said Smith. “They have worked tirelessly, honestly and diligently. I could not have done my job without them. I want to say how much I have, and still do, appreciate them. I try not to rub it in that I’m retiring, but I just can’t help myself. I’m just giddy about it.”

County Executive Jimmy Haley presented Smith a certificate for her dedicated service to Warren County during the last commissioners meeting.

“Elections are the backbone of democracy in America,” said Haley. “We cannot do the job that we do as a community without having an effective election commission. Donna serves in a very critical role when it comes to the accountability of votes here in Warren County and for every election.”

Haley added, “Donna provided an exemplary office and has severed the county with total distinction and honor. For 42 years, she has been an outstanding servant.”

Commissioners gave Smith a standing ovation.