A memorial service was held last Thursday marking the one-year anniversary of Wood County Sheriff’s Deputy Melissa Pollard’s death.

Deputy Pollard died in a fatal patrol crash April 9, 2025 on State Hwy. 37 at FM 14.

Family members, law enforcement officers and community members gathered outside the Wood County Justice Center to honor her life and service.

Justice of the Peace Tony Gilbreath opened the ceremony thanking everyone for being present and including contributors who arranged for her name to be engraved on the fallen officers memorial and provided a commemorative wreath.

Speakers reflected on the events of the day Pollard died and the lasting impact of her loss. 

Gilbreath stated, “She’s more than a name on a memorial. She’s someone that was very special to all of us. She was a sister, she was a mother, she was a friend. She never shirked on anything that she did.”

Sheriff Kelly Cole also spoke about Deputy Pollard saying, “She meant a lot to a lot of people. She loved life to its fullest. He also added with a smile that he “never had a boring conversation” with Deputy Pollard. Cole went on to speak about Pollard’s love for animals and credited her with being a driving force in the shelter the sheriff’s office has for dogs. 

The addition of her name to the Wood County fallen officers monument was highlighted as a way to preserve her legacy, placing her among others who gave their lives in the line of duty and ensuring future generations remember her sacrifice.

Additional remarks highlighted her professionalism, kindness and the lasting impression she left on colleagues. The ceremony concluded with the playing of “Taps,” a prayer offering comfort to her family and fellow officers, and a call to continue her legacy of service.