Linda Smith was sworn in as Wayne Circuit Court Clerk on October 30th. Smith assumed the role of Clerk on November 1. Smith was appointed by Chief Circuit Judge Jennifer Upchurch Edwards following the retirement of Patricia Lay. “I am thankful and excited for this opportunity to continue to serve the people of Wayne County in this new role,” said Smith. “I am honored that Judge Edwards has placed her trust in me to lead this important office.” Before her appointment as Circuit Clerk, Linda served as assistant to Circuit Judge Sara Beth Gregory, a role she has held since Judge Gregory took the bench in 2023. Prior to that, Linda served as Deputy Clerk in the Circuit Clerk’s office since 2004. “I am grateful for my time working alongside Judge Gregory, and, prior to that, my many years of working alongside Patricia Lay and Richard Morrow in the Circuit Clerk’s Office. Those experiences have helped prepare me for this new chapter, and I look forward to leading the Circuit Clerk’s Office and helping the court system operate smoothly and efficiently for Wayne County.” Linda is a lifelong resident of Wayne County and member of Parnell Baptist Church. She is married to Michael Smith. They have two daughters: Alecia is Principal at Walker Early Learning Center, and Jessica is a Legal Assistant at Garmon & Ramsey, PLLC.
