08/29/2026
Remembering Martinsville City Sheriff Steve Draper
The Town of Ridgeway extends our deepest condolences to the family, friends, colleagues, and loved ones of Martinsville City Sheriff Steve Draper following his passing today.
For me personally, Steve was much more than a fellow member of the law enforcement community. I had the privilege of knowing him for more than 30 years, and throughout that time I always considered Steve to be an honorable, kind, and genuinely good man. He was a true leader in our law enforcement community and someone who earned the respect of those around him through his character, dedication, and commitment to public service.
Sheriff Draper devoted more than five decades to law enforcement and served as Martinsville’s sheriff for more than 30 years, leaving an extraordinary legacy of service to Martinsville, Henry County, and the Commonwealth of Virginia.
Today, we mourn the loss of a great sheriff, a respected leader, and, most importantly, a good man.
Our thoughts and prayers are with Steve’s family, the men and women of the Martinsville City Sheriff’s Office, and the citizens of the City of Martinsville during this difficult time.
Rest easy, Sheriff Draper. Your watch has ended, but your legacy of service, leadership, and friendship will live on.
With deepest sympathy,
The Town of Ridgeway
