Cowley County Chief Judge J. Michael Smith died on Monday, local officials have confirmed.
Ark City’s Rindt-Erdman Funeral Home is in charge of arrangements. Smith had recently announced his retirement from the the district court.
Cowley County Attorney Christopher Smith said his office was saddened by the passing of Judge Smith.
"I am deeply saddened by the news of the death of Judge Smith. He was an example of everything that is right with the judiciary and truly deserved the title ‘Your Honor,’ Smith said through a written statement Tuesday. "My and my family’s prayers are with his family at this time."
Judge Smith required treatment for a medical emergency Monday morning but the exact cause of his death was not immediately available for print.
LaDonna Lanning and Mark Krusor are candidates to fill his position.
