In Memory of Sergeant Sherman Peebles
On Tuesday, September 21, 2021, Georgia residents learned that their state had lost another law enforcement officer to the COVID19 pandemic. Sergeant Sherman Peebles, age 49, died due to complications of the virus. As a Muscogee County Sheriff’s Office member, Peebles most likely contracted the virus while on duty. Therefore, it is considered a line of duty death.
Federal legislation was mandated that all active-duty officers who die from COVID19 be counted as line of duty deaths. This status or classification matters in that families will receive additional benefits to help them during this tragedy. Families face loss of income, funeral expenses, and any other costs when a family member passes. These officers continued to put their lives and health on the line for their communities and should be seen as heroes.
Sgt. Peebles has been a sworn officer with the Muscogee County Sheriff’s Office for more than 20 years. Unfortunately, he is the third officer in his area to have died due to the coronavirus pandemic.
Muscogee County Sheriff’s Office, Georgia
Peebles was a member of the Muscogee County Sheriff’s Office. The MCSO is a progressive accredited law enforcement agency. The department patrols provide courtroom security, deliver civil service, and manage the daily operations of the Muscogee County Jail.
The department is progressive in its methods of law enforcement and open communication with residents. Their website is geared to educate and allow residents to find the help that they need. For example, a current part of their site is addressing the growing problem of human trafficking. It explains what it is and gives information to residents on how to seek help.
Remembrances
Sergeant Sherman Peebles leaves behind his wife, son, parents, and three brothers. Many officers from across Georgia came to volunteer to bring honor and significance to the escort parade to bring Peebles home to his final resting place. In addition, notified residents came out to line the streets to express their gratitude. The family will comfort each other, friends, and neighbors during this challenging time in their lives.
The Muscogee County Sheriff’s Office shared the tragic news with residents about the loss of Sgt. Peebles. “It is with the deepest sorrow that we regret to inform you of the loss of Sergeant Sherman Peebles of the Muscogee County Sheriff’s Office after a battle with COVID-19. Sergeant Peebles was a 19-year employee with the Muscogee County Sheriff’s Office. He was a dedicated, hard-working deputy and one of the most warm-hearted members of our family. We ask that you keep his family, friends, and coworkers in your prayers during this difficult time. Rest easy, Sergeant Peebles. We will hold the line from here.”
Friend Val Prescott responded to the news. “This has broken me; I loved Sherman as one of my Sons. Heartfelt Condolences to his family. He loved the Lord; now he’s sleeping in the arms of the Lord. I love and will miss you much. I will forever see your smiling face when I walk into Overflow. We need more to love and encourage the young as he did. Sleep in Peace.”
Coworker Justin T. Myers was saddened to hear the news of his friend. “Great guy, and I’m honored to have had the pleasure to know him and to be able to work with him. You will be deeply missed, Sherman. Rest in heaven, brother.”