Northampton County Sheriff Jack Smith today released a statement on the death Wednesday of former Sheriff Wardie Pernell Vincent Sr.

“It is with great sadness that we share with you the passing of retired Sheriff Wardie Pernell Vincent Sr., of Northampton County on February 16, 2022.”

Vincent was 74-years-old. 

A native of Northampton County, Vincent was elected in 1998 and served the citizens of Northampton County as Sheriff until his retirement on July 31, 2013. 

Vincent began his law enforcement career serving as a security guard with the Migrant and Seasonal Farmworkers’ Association in Rich Square back in 1977. 

In 1979,Vincent completed his associate degree in criminal justice at Halifax Community College. 

He was hired that same year as a special deputy by the Northampton Sheriff’s Office, working his way up through the ranks by serving as a patrol deputy, civil officer, detective, and chief deputy. 

He went on to be a probation and parole officer and later chief of the Garysburg Police Department before running for the office of sheriff.  

He is survived by his wife, Betty and three children.  

“I would like to thank Sheriff Vincent for his 40 years of dedicated service to the citizens of Northampton County and the state of North Carolina,” Smith said. “He will be truly missed. I ask for everyone to please keep the Vincent family in your thoughts and prayers during this difficult time.”