Family, Friends & Fellow Officers Remember...

Officer Smith, i'm sorry for what happened to you that day 14 years ago, as your death was senseless and it was extremely cruel. To start off, there's alot of things i could start with, but what i'd like to focus on is the fact you saved a young girl's life in your last moments. You knew you were wounded and that danger was there, and instead of trying to save yourself, you saved a precious child's life, meaning that child can now grow up and get older because of you, and if that isn't an act of heroism and selflessness, i don't know what is. Although in the end your death should've never happened, it won't change that you saved a save life that day, as your actions that day deserve recognition. However, the thing that bothers me, is that this is one of those cases where you just have to ask yourself why. Why did the man do what he did that day? Why could he have just gotten his time over with? But from upon my research and what i read, is that the man who took you and that poor woman's life had a long history of convictions, and that it was clear that he never learned his lesson in the first place. In conclusion, i believe that even if the man did his time he still wouldn't have learned, as his actions that day proved that. But atleast on the bright side of things, is that the man won't bother or harm anyone else again, due to the fact he was clearly a coward who would never learn or change from his mistakes, but what he did is between him and God. Also, i'd like to shift into the positive side of things: For one, you were a police officer for barely a year, which although it is sad and it could've been different, it appears that God had other plans, and he saw that you were a brave woman who had a passion to serve others, and to demonstrate what it meant to be a hero and servant to the public. I think that during your 10 months as an officer, you've accomplished alot, and another thing i'd like to point out is that you were an officer in the grand state of Texas. One thing i know about Texas is that it's one of the dangerous places to be an officer, but as it turns out, you didn't let that bother nor stop you as you were determined to change lives and help others, whilst also doing your job in a professional manner. From what i learned, is that you were one of the good officers in the state of Texas, specfically in the city you grew up in, which was Arlington, and considering you had that dream of being an officer, i have no doubt that you successfully accomplished that dream, although it was cut short. It never makes sense, even as of now it doesn't. It doesn't make sense why some officers who are young or just getting started in their career have their lives cut short, all because of the evil and cruelness in this world. There shouldn't be a reason to harm an officer, but with how society and people are today it's only gotten worse as people encourage destruction rather than encouraging helping others, which has been a problem for awhile. But thankfully, with officers who are or were like you that truly wanted to change their communities, it does help suppress it and change people's minds, even if a little bit. Although i myself am not a police officer in any way, i understand that not all police officers make it home, and though it is unfortunately true and i wish it was different, atleast in the end the fowl individuals that do such actions to police are either put down by responding officers, or they're permanently sealed away from society. From the amount of officers that have died by the hands of selfish cowards, i've learned that so many people nowadays can't accept responsibility for their actions, so they take it out on others because they're too arrogant to just do their time and move on. I do know now that you're one of God's soldiers and police officers in heaven, as it appears that God had other plans for requesting your assistance in heaven, as it's a sign that your sacrifice showed what type of person you were, as you saved a young child instead of yourself, which is something that not many people have the courage to do, let alone take the bullet instead. It amazes me that you didn't even think about yourself in that moment, as the child's life and safety was your main focus and instinct, and that child could go on to live their life, and although it is a shame that you were taken by a monster, it's one of those things where you just have to salute the said person who saved a child in the progress, and i personally salute you for that. I'm not sure where the child you saved is at now, but hopefully she knows that you're the reason why she is alive today, because you acted as a shield for her in that moment and you successfully saved her life, and she can tell it on to those who learn her story. I do think that as long as your name is said and you're remembered, you aren't truly dead, as you were a young woman who was just beginning her life and career as a police officer, though it was sadly taken away. I think that you had more to live and look forward to, but as i said before, you were called in by God to reunite with him and be credited for your service, which i think is well appreciated. As of now, may you rest in peace knowing that your service and sacrifice is forever appreciated, and that you managed to make an everlasting impact on those around you, and that the city of Arlington and the state of Texas is honored to have had heroes like you patrolling the streets and ensuring the safety of others and the public. Just know that the man who took your life is also gone, meaning that he won't bother anybody else again, and that he's receiving his punishment in the afterlife for his actions that day, as he wasn't right in the head, and that he was a dog that should've been put down a long time ago, but met his end. Rest Well Mrs. Smith

Morgan, a civilian supporter of the blue line

August 9, 2025

Lord Jesus, as we watch America’s Peace Officers succumb to the wicked and evil in this world, Shot and Killed in the Line-of-Duty, it becomes difficult for us to pick up and move forward. Our communities are on the brink of exploding with tension. In light of the peace officers who are no longer with us, I pray for endurance for our communities and law enforcement agencies. Carry us through this time of strife, that through our struggles, our bonds may grow even more unbreakable. In Your mighty and holy name, I pray. Amen.

Holy Scriptures on Law Enforcement’s Mission:

“For the policeman [peace officer] does not frighten people who are doing right; but those doing evil will always fear him. So if you don’t want to be afraid, keep the laws and you will get along well. The policeman [peace officer] is sent by God to help you. But if you are doing something wrong, of course you should be afraid, for he [the peace officer] will have you punished. He [the peace officer] is sent by God for that very purpose. Obey the laws, then, for two reasons: first, to keep from being punished, and second, just because you know you should.” [Romans 13:3-5 TLB]

[Jesus Said,] “Greater love has no one than this, that someone lay down his life for his friends.” [John 15:13 ESV]

And he [Jesus] said to him, “Truly, I say to you, today you will be with me in paradise.” [Luke 23:43 ESV]

“Blessed are the peacemakers, for they shall be called sons [children] of God.” [Matthew 5:9 ESV]

“And I heard the voice of the Lord saying, “Whom shall I send, and who will go for us?” Then I said, “Here am I! Send me.” [Isaiah 6:8 ESV]

Chaplain Steven R. Closs, DDiv, MSBS, NCCA, FCPO-USA
Ordained Christian Global Outreach Minister No. 36526
The Badge 183 Peacemakers Prayer Ministry

January 9, 2024

You are the standard bearer of what a police officer should be. You thought nothing of your self and saved life. You are at rest with the Lord. Matthew 16:25
"and whosoever will lose his life for my sake shall find it."

Felicia Turner
Inner Workings

July 29, 2022

Your service and sacrifice are not forgotten. Your selfless act save that little girl. God bless your family and all you had an impact on, I'm sure it's numerous beautiful soul

Carla Joyce
Citizen

December 29, 2020

Officer Smith,
On today, the 10th anniversary of your death I would just like to say thank you for your service and sacrifice for the citizens of Arlington. And to your Family and loved ones, I wish to extend my deepest sympathy.

R.I.P.
USBP

Anonymous
United States Border Patrol

December 28, 2020

I remember when this happened. She gave the ultimate sacrifice in putting someone's life before her own. She lived and sadly succumbed to the mantra "to save and protect". RIP hero.

Michael Collins
Longwood University PD

December 28, 2020

Rest in peace Officer Smith.

Rabbi Lewis S. Davis

December 27, 2020

Ms. Smith will always be acknowledged for being a Hero, but to her parents she will always be the baby, that grew up and wanted to be a positive role model in society. God Bless the Smith family!!!!!!

James Bell
friend of the family

December 16, 2019

I came across her story after learning more about the experiences our officers endure in order to protect us, and it just further exemplifies my respect for those who give everything they have to keep their citizens safe. Bless her and all our officers

Jorge Melo
AISD Student

February 12, 2019

Officer Smith, I recently learned of your sacrifice through a training course involving domestic violence. Your actions during the night in question are a testament to your commitment of service and duty to others and are consistent with the very best values of the law enforcement profession. You will never be forgotten!

Corporal William H. Barger
Vandalia Police Department, Missouri

January 12, 2019

Jillian Michelle Smith was a hero in every sense of the word. May she rest in peace.

Stan Jefferson
Citizen of Arizona

December 28, 2018

Rest In Peace Sister in Blue. Thank you Hero for your sacrifice and service. Never forgotten.

Officer Mike Robinson (Ret.)
Upland Police Dept. CA

December 28, 2018

I think of you quite often even though we never met. You did what a true police officer does, and only had 10 months on the job. You are a true hero, I haven’t forgotten about you since the day I read the article about what you did. You are truly a gift from our Father above, I pray that our Heavenly Father gives your family the peace only he can.

Lieutenant Johnathan Pilgrim
City of Monroe Police Department

October 6, 2018

John 5:28, 29 - "Do not be amazed at this, for the hour is coming in which all those in the memorial tombs will hear his voice and come out". I pray that everyone can find peace in knowing that we will see this officer as well as many others again in Paradise soon. Until then, please accept my condolences.

A.W. Montgomery
Concerned Citizen

September 30, 2018

RIP Officer Smith. You stood in harm’s way. You are a hero in every sense of the word.

Deputy Constable Anonymous Anonymous
31 years of service

April 14, 2018

Officer Smith. I visit this site often. My father was Chief of Police when he was killed. When I first read about your departure in 2011, it really and truly touched my heart. Here it is, nearly 5 years later and I'm still emotional. I know it's time to pay my respects to you. No. I didn't know you personally, but like so many others, because of your heroic and brave spirit, I wished I did. As I write this reflection on this date, there is so much chaos and hatred in this country between civilians and law enforcement. So much division. If I know nothing else, there is one thing I know. If civilians and law enforcement had the heart that you had, this country and world would be a better place. May you continue to Rest In Peace

P, Parker
Brother in Christ

December 3, 2016

I miss you Jilly! I miss riding in your pontiac sunfire singing at the top of our lungs pretending to be superstars. You always said you were going to be a hero and that couldn't be more true. Thank you for the years I got to spend with you every day! I love you, sing and dance with Jesus now but save me a spot though...love you!

Amanda Campbell
Childhood best friend

November 2, 2016

A true Texas hero. You are not forgotten.

Frank Mercer
private citizen, Ocean Park Washington

June 4, 2016

I have no words to say that could thank you enough for your service and sacrifice.

Civilian

March 2, 2016

Stopping by to let you know you're still thought of, remembered and honored, even by those of us who didn't have the gift of knowing you in this life. You'll always be my hero & my sister in blue tho. We love you.

Officer Gonzalez #3920
Prince George's County Police - Maryland.

March 2, 2016

Officer Smith thought of others before herself, shielding the child against the suspect. She was an exceptional human being, brave law enforcement officer, and an example of the good in humanity. To Officer Smith's family, my deepest condolences. Jillian showed great bravery and humanity in protecting a child. She is a hero in my heart, and in the hearts of all law enforcement officers.

PO Clarence K Qualls, 7666
Dallas Police Department

December 30, 2015

To Officer Smith's Family and Officer Smith's Arlington P.D. Family...
Rest in Peace Sister ())-%--- your job is done here on earth, but now you are able to keep an eye out for your Brothers and Sisters from Heaven.
Thank GOD... that he had you there to save a young life and I know that she will never forget you, nor the lives you have touched.
You will never be Forgotten, Sister <3 ())-%---

Detention Service Officer Velda Valdez
Tulare County Sheriff Department, California

December 29, 2015

Jillian,
You are thought about and loved! Its been 5 years but it doesnt get any easier. I pray for your family daily and I miss you so much!! You were on our shift for a short time but your legacy will last forever.

South Evening Shift 2010
Arlington PD

December 28, 2015

When I think of a HERO UR FACE WILL COME TO MIND. Your definitely one of the good. The Lord needed you with him and I can understand why. I didn't know you, I wish I had. But your story hit me deep in my soul and you gave your life for a young soul to live there's. I hope and pray that daughter will never take her life for granted. Your why she still lives. Prayers go out to All Family and Friends
REST IN PARADISE. Amen.

Not with one Miah Scranton
California

December 28, 2015

She was obviously a very dedicated officer and was on the job for all the right reasons!

Ron King

December 28, 2015