Barbara Venable was sworn in as the new Bell County Jailer on Thursday afternoon. Judge-Executive Albey Brock appointed her to fill the remainder of her late husband, Robin Venable’s term.
Robin Venable passed away last Sunday after a courageous battle with cancer.
“It’s my honor to appoint Barb to finish Robin’s term as jailer.  I take the appointment responsibility very seriously and have all confidence Barb is up to the task of furthering Robin’s vision for the jail,” Brock said. “She has worked closely with Robin over the last year and has an acute understanding of what is required to operate the jail.”
Mrs. Venable said one of the last things her husband asked her to do before he passed was to finish out his term as jailer in order to finish what he started back in 2022.
“I have worked alongside Robin, especially during the last year when he got really sick, and I have seen firsthand what it takes to accomplish what he started. I look forward to doing that,” she said. “I would like to thank Judge Brock for having the confidence in me to allow me to honor my husband’s wishes. I look forward to this challenge and I look forward to serving Bell County.”
Thursday’s swearing in ceremony was attended by several other elected officials from Bell County, including State Rep. Adam Bowling, magistrates Donny Lefevers, Junior Maiden and Eddie Saylor, Sheriff Mitch Williams, County Attorney Chris Douglas, County Clerk Debbie Gambrel and PVA Ben Barnett.
A memorial service for Robin Venable will be on Saturday, Feb. 1, 2025 at 7 p.m. at Middlesboro High School’s Fuson Gymnasium with Pastor Astor Simpson presiding. Visitation will  be from 5 to 7 at the same location.