The Shadow
COVINGTON, Va. (VR) – Sheriff Thomas Daniel “Danny” Warlitner, a revered law enforcement officer who served Alleghany County for three decades, left an indelible mark on local policing and a powerful legacy embodied by his granddaughter, Hollee Warlitner.
Mr. Warlitner, who passed away at 88, dedicated 31 years to the Alleghany County Sheriff’s Department, including eight years as sheriff (1986-1994), before retiring in 1994. He was a United States Marine Corps veteran and is remembered not just for his professional achievements, but also for his character. “He always had a smile on his face,” said Hollee, who followed in her grandfather’s footsteps to law enforcement. “He would give the
shirt off his back to help anyone, whether they were someone he knew or a complete stranger.” Born in Allegheny County on April 13, 1936, Warlitner’s law enforcement career was marked by a compassionate approach that prioritized community understanding over unnecessary strict punishment. His granddaughter recalled how he would often return mischievous teenagers’ home to their parents rather than issue citations,
believing in guidance over punishment. Hollee Warlitner, now a Corporal in the Sheriff’s Department herself, represents the continuing spirit of her grandfather’s commitment to public service. She joined the same department where he once served, becoming part of a new generation of law enforcement professionals. “I have always had a passion for helping people,” she explained. “I saw his impact on the community and had such
high regard for what he did for Covington and Alleghany County.”
The transition from her grandfather’s era to her own has been significant. When Danny Warlitner began his career, no women served in the department. Today, Hollee has not only joined the force but recently witnessed the department’s first female captain being hired. Technology has also dramatically transformed policing. Where her grandfather once processed arrests manually, Hollee now uses computerized systems and body scanners,
streamlining procedures while maintaining the core mission of protecting and serving. Despite these changes, the fundamental principles remain consistent.
Hollee credits her grandfather with teaching her to always treat people with respect, recognizing that every individual has a family who cares about them. Her grandfather’s influence was deeply personal. He never missed one of her softball games, always sitting in the front row, cheering enthusiastically. When she was hired and later promoted, he was her first and most proud supporter. “I remember the day I was hired,” Hollee recalled. “He had the biggest smile and said, ‘Way to go, baby girl, you will do good.’” A shadow box in her home preserves his legacy – containing his badges, ranking insignias, and a felt hat from a particularly dangerous incident when juveniles once shot at him, serving as an important reminder of the risks law enforcement officers face. Colleagues and community members remember Danny Warlitner as a dedicated public servant who approached his role with humanity and compassion. His eight-year tenure as sheriff was characterized by a hands-on approach that prioritized community relationships.
Hollee continues this tradition. When people recognize her last name, conversations often emerge about her grandfather, with community members sharing stories that keep his memory alive.
Thomas Daniel Warlitner is survived by his sons Troy and Tim, a sister Barbara, two brothers Preston and Gary, and three grandchildren. But his most profound legacy might be embodied in Hollee – a testament to the enduring impact of principled public service. As law enforcement continues to evolve, the Warlitner family’s commitment to community, respect, and service remains a powerful reminder of the human heart behind the badge. In
Hollee’s words, reflecting on her grandfather’s life: “He loved his job. He loved serving his community. And I am very fortunate to have had him to look up to. He was my best friend, and I will forever miss him.”
