In Memory of Corporal Avery Hillman

Georgia Deputy Loses Life to COVID19

Officers are being lost nearly every day to the pandemic. Georgia authorities were saddened to announce the loss of a long-time veteran deputy that had spent almost 30 years devoting his life to his community. Corporal Avery Hillman, age 50, died on Saturday, October 31, 2020, from coronavirus complications. He was a well-respected Crisp County deputy who had given his entire career to law enforcement. Cpl. Hillman was also a veteran of the Georgia National Guard. He died while receiving treatment at the Houston Medical Center.

It is presumed that Hillman contracted the virus while on duty. His most recent assignment was with the Hospital Division, and he brought security and safety to Crisp Regional Hospital. He began his career in law enforcement in 1990 as a Detention Officer. He then worked hard to complete the basic mandate training and became Georgia POST certified. During his time in law enforcement, Cpl. Hillman served in multiple departments and divisions, including detention, court security, patrol, and hospital security.

Crisp County Sheriff’s Office

Corporal Avery Hillman worked with the Crisp County Sheriff’s Office. The law enforcement agency is located in the county seat of Cordelle, Georgia. The Crisp County Sheriff is currently Billy Hancock. He is the most recent in a long history of law enforcement in Crisp County. The first sheriff of the Crisp County Sheriff’s Office, George Wylie Sheppard, was sworn in during November of 1905. Since that first assigned sheriff, the residents have elected a new sheriff every four years, starting with the first sheriff’s election process in 1908 as a Democrat. In 1909, Sheriff John Henry Ward took the reigns as the newly elected Sheriff. Ward brought past law enforcement experience to the office and stayed in office for three terms.

Sheriff Billy Hancock is the eleventh sheriff to hold office in the county. He was the first to promote a female officer to the level of Chief Deputy for the county.

COVID Creates Losses for All

The pandemic of COVID19 is creating losses for all families across the globe. Corporal Avery Hillman will be remembered and honored by family, friends, neighbors, and fellow law enforcement officers for the sacrifice he made. During his family’s time of grief, the Crisp County community is pulling together to help them through their time of sorrow.
Sheriff Billy Hancock shared his grief and condolences in a brief statement. “On behalf of the Crisp County Sheriff’s Office, I extend my deepest condolences to the loved ones of Corporal Avery Hillman. Corporal Hillman served this community for over 30 years, and we will never forget his sacrifice. I want to thank the entire medical team involved in his care. This tragedy is yet another reminder of the sacrifice men and women in law enforcement make every day. I am indebted to the first responders who continue to put themselves at risk to serve our community. Please join us in our continuing prayers and thoughts of support, while Corporal Hillman’s family works through this challenging time. We will release information regarding the funeral, procession, and donations once arrangements are made.”

The Crisp County Sheriff’s office posted the loss on social media for the community. “With deep regret, the Crisp County Sheriff’s Office announces the passing of active duty Sheriff’s Deputy, Corporal Avery Hillman. Corporal Hillman died from COVID-19 related complications Saturday, October 31, 2020, at the Houston Medical Center in Warner Robins, Georgia. Corporal Hillman contracted COVID-19 while on duty. Corporal Hillman was assigned to the Hospital Division.”

The Crisp County Sheriff’s Office was thrilled that the young hero Zechariah Cartledge had created a special run for Corporal Hillman. On their Facebook page, they wrote: Incredible doesn’t begin to describe this young man. Zechariah, we are honored by your dedication and passion for horning First Responders. Thank you for running in honor of Corporal Avery Hillman. Zechariah Cartledge, Founder of Running 4 Heroes is a 501(c)(3) organization, runs one mile for every First Responder who makes the ultimate sacrifice in the line of duty.”