DeRidder, La. - Beauregard Parish Sheriff Bolivar Bishop will serve his last official day in office tomorrow, concluding 36 years of service as the parish's highest ranking peace officer. Bishop was first elected in 1971, the youngest sheriff in the state at that time. Now, he holds the title of longest serving sheriff in Louisiana. During his time in office, Bishop accomplished numerous goals for the parish, including what parish officials said are, "sound financial management practices in the department's operations that have made Beauregard Parish a model for parish criminal, civil, and tax offices around the state.” Bishop created several satellite offices throughout the rural areas of the parish, supervised and controlled a 160-bed jail facility, and began a voluntary reserve auxiliary force. When asked what the secret to his success has been, Bishop responded that all of the recognition and praise goes to the staff with whom he has had the privilege of working throughout the years. His answer is in line with his typical style of not wanting the attention and recognition to fall upon him, but on his staff members. "I've had a lot of great memories, a lot of fun things that have happened throughout the years. I am grateful for all the support from the people, but I want to give the credit to the employees here," Bishop said. His style and leadership qualities have served him well among the citizens of Beauregard Parish, who have elected him in eight primary elections. His open-door policy with all citizens has allowed anyone in the parish with concerns or comments an opportunity to speak directly with him. Bishop's law enforcement peers throughout the state apparently appreciate his experience and guidance, as well. Bishop served as President of the Louisiana Sheriff's Association and established the Louisiana Sheriff's Task Force, an organization comprised of two highly-trained deputies from each of the state's 64 parishes. The force is activated in extreme state-wide emergencies, such as natural disasters. Bishop currently serves on the Louisiana Sheriffs' Pension and Relief Fund Board of Trustees. Four of Bishop's longtime staff members have also decided to follow him down the road of retirement. Chief Deputy Robert McCullough, Fiscal Administrator Debbie McCarty, Bookkeeper Cindy Burks, and Office of Emergency Preparedness Director Glen Mears will officially retire on June 30, as well. Bishop was honored last month at a retirement party at the Beauregard Parish Fairgrounds Exhibit Hall. Several sheriffs from other parishes attended the event, including Vernon Parish Sheriff Sam Craft, DeSoto Parish Sheriff Rodney Arbuckle, and Sheriff Pop Hataway from Grant Parish. The DeRidder City Council presented the "Bolivar Bishop Drive" street sign, which replaced Mayeaux Drive, on the street running alongside the jail and Emergency 9-1-1 buildings. The Beauregard Parish Police Jury presented a proclamation paying tribute to Bishop as a loyal and dedicated servant to the citizens of Beauregard Parish. Several of Bishop's colleagues spoke of his leadership, his dedication, and his service. Additionally, an official statement from Gov. Bobby Jindal's office was read, giving special recognition to Bishop. Bishop has big plans for his retirement days, saying that he will work around his family farm in Beauregard Parish, go a few places, and spend time with his four grandchildren. Reflecting on his time in office, Bishop has fond memories and respect for the people of Beauregard Parish, "In this parish, I think you will find that the people all pull together." As for the new sheriff in town, Sheriff-elect Ricky Moses takes office Tuesday, July 1 at 8 am. He will be officially sworn in to office during an official inauguration ceremony at the Beauregard Parish Courthouse. Bishop wishes him well and speaks highly of him, "He worked here over 20-something years. He's worked in every division – he's going to do just fine."