Sally Childes Walker Glaude, a pioneering figure in California law enforcement, passed away on July 7, 2024, at the age of 86.
Glaude made history as the first Black sworn law enforcement officer in Butte County and the first sworn Black female officer north of Sacramento to the Oregon border.
Breaking Barriers in Law Enforcement
Glaude’s groundbreaking career began in 1962 when she was sworn in as a deputy for the Butte County Sheriff’s Department. Her duties over the years included working as a dispatcher, jailer, and court bailiff. Throughout her 30-year tenure, Glaude earned respect from colleagues and legal professionals alike.
Mike Ramsey, Butte County District Attorney, described Glaude’s role as a bailiff: “Sally knew how to keep the justice engine efficiently churning inside a chaotic courtroom. Her ability to read people and their emotions made her the ultimate safety valve in otherwise tense situations in the courthouse.”
A Life of Adaptation and Perseverance
Born in Little Rock, Arkansas, in 1937, Glaude moved to Oroville, California, with her family in 1942. Her life journey included overcoming numerous challenges, including raising five children as a single mother after returning from Germany in 1961.
Carol Johnson, a lifelong friend, summarized Glaude’s approach to life: “To live is to adapt. This simple quote could have been Sally’s mantra as she lived her life successfully no matter what challenges she encountered.”
Commitment to Fairness and Compassion
Glaude’s impact extended beyond her official duties. She was known for her commitment to treating everyone with dignity and respect, regardless of their background or circumstances.
“Sally’s quiet strength of character kept order in the court. She taught a generation of judges and attorneys, including me, how to seek compassionate, fair and equal justice – with a smile,” Ramsey added.
Faith-Driven Community Service
Even after retirement, Glaude remained active in community service. As a dedicated member of the Seventh Day Adventist Church, she participated in programs to feed homeless families and assist former inmates in rebuilding their lives.
Vicki Simmons, a retired sheriff’s deputy, highlighted Glaude’s spiritual influence: “She was a wonderful influence in my life in that regard. She sent me a devotional every day, including Sunday, which is the day she passed away.”
A Lasting Legacy of Love and Respect
Glaude’s impact on her family and community is reflected in the words of those who knew her best. Her daughter Vivian McGee stated, “Mom walked her talk daily. She was the real deal. You knew she loved everyone fiercely.”
Steven Glaude, her husband, simply described her as “the love of my life, my heart and the only person I truly loved.”
Sally Childes Walker Glaude is survived by her husband, six children, 12 grandchildren, and eight great-grandchildren. Her legacy as a trailblazer, community servant, and beacon of compassion will continue to inspire future generations.
