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The late former Ohio County Prosecutor was recently recognized posthumously statewide for his work for the Democratic Party in Ohio County.
Scott Richard Smith, who died in June 2025, received special recognition from West Virginia Democratic leaders, honoring him posthumously as one of the state’s Outstanding Democrats of the Year. Smith was selected by local county leaders for his lifetime of hard work and dedication to the Democratic Party in Ohio County. Smith received tribute from Democrats assembled at the recent Roosevelt-Kennedy Dinner Celebration held at the Beni Kedem Temple, in Charleston. This year's special guest speaker was the Chair of the Democratic National Committee, Ken Martin.
Smith started with Ohio County as an assistant prosecutor in 1993, then was first elected Ohio County prosecutor in 2000. He was reelected five times and retired from the position in 2024.
Karen Coria, a Putnam County Democratic Party leader and chair of the 41st Annual Awards Ceremony indicated that the award was established to recognize local Party officials and volunteers whom Democratic leaders feel have contributed most to the Party's efforts.
"Our goal is to recognize these special people who have distinguished themselves by contributing to our society, by working within the framework of our democracy and political party system," Coria said.
Joining State Democratic Party Chair Mike Pushkin and Coria in acknowledging the accomplishments of the honoree were 1st Vice-chair Pam Tucker Cline and this year's special guest speaker, Chair, Democratic National Committee, Ken Martin.
The honoree received special recognition and presentations by Party officials.
“The efforts of the honoree demonstrated the importance of his work in affecting the outcome of local, state and national races.” Coria added.