Commissioner Ralph Caraway Sr.

Sworn in on January 2, 2023, Ralph E. Caraway, Sr. is the County Commissioner of Smith County for Precinct 4. An East Texas native, Caraway was born in Mineola, and has been a resident of Tyler for more than 30 years. A veteran of the United States Army, he now serves as the senior pastor of St. Louis Baptist Church, Tyler.

He looks forward to this new role in government serving the residents of Smith County, utilizing his experience in representing constituents at the city level, along with other community service.

His community involvement over the years includes:

• Tyler City Councilman for District 3 (2007-2013), Mayor Pro-Term
• Half Cent Sales Tax Board, Tyler
• Development Board of The University of Texas Health Science Center of Tyler
• The East Texas Fair Foundation, Board Member 
• Goodwill of East Texas, Board Member
• CASA, Board Member
• Moderator of the Original East Texas Baptist Association, a body of  50 churches.
• Chaplain for the Smith County Sheriff’s Department
• Chaplain for the Tyler High School football team

Dedicated to community improvement, he has the firm believe that there is “Power in Community” and through collective work and communication, a better life and quality of living for residents of Smith County is a reality, with continued progress built on a solid foundation.

He has been devoted to his wife, LaQuita, for 41 years and is the father of three children and grandfather of six. Always active in the community, he is a great example of a true servant leader.

Contact Information

Smith County Annex Building
200 E. Ferguson, Suite 100
Tyler, Texas 75702

Phone: (903) 590-4604
Email: RCarawaySr@smith-county.com