Weakley County Sheriff's Office

06/08/2026

Jerry Frank James, of Palmersville, TN, a respected former Deputy of the Weakley County Sheriff's Department and a proud United States Army Vietnam Veteran, passed away on June 6, 2026, in Martin, Tennessee. Born on January 17, 1949, in Troy, Tennessee, Jerry’s life was marked by dedicated service to his community and country.

A 1967 graduate of Palmersville High School, Jerry carried the values and lessons from his early years into every chapter of his life. His commitment to law enforcement and public safety was exemplified through his tenure with the Weakley County Sheriff's Department, where he served with distinction, earning the respect and admiration of his colleagues and community members alike.

Jerry’s military service stands as a testament to his bravery and patriotism. As a Vietnam Veteran of the United States Army, he embodied the courage and sacrifice characteristic of those who stood in service during a defining period in history.

He is survived by his cherished children: Jason James, married to Deana; Terri Leo, married to Dale; and Melisa Finch, married to Matt. His legacy continues in his beloved grandchildren: Joseph Martin, Nicole Leo, Jeremy James, Karrigan Lyell, Zack Davis, and Alex Vitale, who carry forward the memory of a devoted family man whose strength and love were pillars of their lives.

Jerry was preceded in death by his father, Thomas James, and mother, Grace Thelma Morris James, as well as his sister, Joyce Laster. Their memories live on within his heart and the stories shared by all who knew him.

Throughout his life, Jerry Frank James exemplified dedication, honor, and a spirit of service. He will be remembered with deep respect and affection by family, friends, and all who had the privilege of knowing him. His passing marks the end of a life well lived, leaving an enduring impact on his community and loved ones.

(No services have been announced at the time of posting, obituary by Bowlin Funeral Home of Dresden, TN)

06/08/2026

It is with great sadness that we learn of the passing of retired Deputy Terry Guthrie.

Deputy Guthrie dedicated years of service to his community and to law enforcement, leaving a lasting impact on those who had the privilege to serve alongside him. His commitment, professionalism, and dedication to protecting others will not be forgotten.

The thoughts and prayers of the Weakley County Sheriff's Office family are with Deputy Guthrie's loved ones, friends, and all who knew him during this difficult time.

Rest easy, Guthrie. Your service and sacrifice will always be remembered.

05/25/2026

05/15/2026

05/11/2026

We wear the badge with pride, but also with heavy hearts. This National Police Week, we honor the brave men and women of the Weakley County Sheriff's Office and all agencies. We specifically remember our fallen brother, Deputy Derrick Bonham (EOW 1/30/2026). Your service, your sacrifice, and your legacy will never be forgotten.

03/27/2026

Congratulations to Deputy Aiden Frey. Deputy Frey graduated the Tennessee Law Enforcement Training Academy today after 12 weeks of training. We are proud to have Deputy Frey as part of our team.

03/23/2026

On April 1st, 2026, Weakley County Sheriff's Office will partner with the Tennessee Highway Safety Office for "Operation Hands Free". During this campaign, deputies will crack down on violators of Tennessee’s Hands-Free Law during National Distracted Driving Awareness Month. According to Tennessee’s Hands-Free Law (T.C.A. § 55-8-199), it is illegal for drivers to hold a cell phone or mobile device with any part of their body. Violation of this law can result in points on your driving record. Drivers can learn more at www.HandsFreeTN.com

https://urldefense.com/v3/__https:/t.e2ma.net/click/bpwhfn/b19zvk6e/rdi7h4__;!!PRtDf9A!pXQsJV3Dt_RVpjAMgp6RwnG2yxbF6o6APEACaSw1_WarX3KOyDnWXYTgjp_Wce_46wewZOq9uAHd2ay6Bz6znZXftGoT$

03/20/2026

Weakley County Sheriff’s Office would like to highlight our K9 deputies Sgt. Ryan Schaeffer with K9 Martha, Deputy Joseph Crocker with K9 Lexi, and Deputy Scottie Hodges with K9 Recon. K9 Martha is a Bloodhound that assists deputies locate missing persons with her superb sense of smell. K9 Recon is a full patrol dog specializing in narcotics odor detection, tracking, and apprehension. Last, but certainly not least, K9 Lexi is amazing in narcotics odor detection. K9 Lexi placed second overall in narcotics detection while the deputies were receiving training in Henry county to certify their K9’s through the NNDDA. We are so proud of the hard work and dedication shown by our deputies and K9’s. Help is in thanking them for their hard work and service to our great community.

02/24/2026

Application period from 02/25/2026 to 04/17/2026. Apply today and be part of our amazing team. Applications can be picked up from the Sheriff's Office or requested at the email listed on the flier. There are currently two open positions for Patrol Deputy.

02/03/2026

A Heartfelt Thank You to Our Community

Today, we gathered as a community to honor Deputy Bonham, who bravely served and sacrificed for the safety of our county. The overwhelming presence of law enforcement, community members, and friends at the memorial service is a testament to the profound impact he had on each of us. Some came all the way from New York to pay their respects! The honor guard, bag piper, three helicopter fly-over, the Greenfield School faculty and staff, the donated lunch for family/deputies, the fire departments flying a beautiful flag over the procession, and every act of kindness you have shown did not go unnoticed.

As I looked around, I was filled with immense pride and gratitude. It’s heartwarming to see our community come together in solidarity during this difficult time. Your support means the world to us, and it serves as a reminder that we are not just a department, but a family rooted deeply in our community.

Deputy Bonham's legacy of courage, kindness, and service will always be remembered. Thank you for standing with us today and for continuing to uphold the values of honor and respect. The respect and appreciation shown for all law enforcement officers will never be forgotten!

Together, we will keep his memory alive in our hearts and through our actions. Please remember Nicole, his kids, and family in your prayers.

Let us continue to support one another as we honor his memory.

With deepest gratitude,
Sheriff Terry McDade
Weakley County Sheriff's Office