SUMNER COUNTY, Tenn. (WTVF) — Sumner County Sheriff Roy Sonny Weatherford has died this week, according to county mayor John Isbell.
Eric Craddock the chief deputy is now in charge.
"Sheriff Weatherford dedicated his life to the service and protection of our community, embodying the very essence of commitment, bravery, and integrity," Mayor Isbell said. "In every action and decision, he demonstrated an unwavering commitment to justice and the well-being of every citizen. Through the years, he has faced countless challenges with courage and determination, always putting the safety of others above his own. But beyond the badge and the uniform, Sonny was a person of deep compassion and empathy. He understood that the role of a sheriff was not just about enforcing the law, but also about fostering trust and building relationships within the community. He took the time to listen, to understand, and to help those in need, often going above and beyond the call of duty."
Gallatin Mayor Paige Brown confirmed the sheriff died from a brain bleed after falling and hitting his head while out of town.
Funeral services for Weatherford were not immediately announced.
Law enforcement and state leaders across Tennessee have made statements sending their condolences to the Weatherford family and saying how this is a great loss.
“We just lost a true hero in Sumner County," Majority Leader William Lamberth, R-Portland said. "The unexpected loss of Sheriff Sonny Weatherford leaves a tremendous void in our community and in our hearts. Not only have the people of Sumner County lost a phenomenal sheriff, but he has been my dear friend for 20 years. Sonny proudly answered the call to duty with a distinguished career in law enforcement that spanned four decades. His many contributions to Sumner County and his work to advance public safety in Tennessee will be felt for many years to come. Above all else, Sonny was a deeply principled man. His strength of character, good nature, and servant’s heart served as an example for us all. We miss him and we pray for his family during this difficult time.”
State Senator Ferrell Haile was in Sumner County for the arrival of Sheriff Weatherford's body and said he was there to show his respect.
"Sonny had a tremendous amount of respect by the community for his service," said Haile. "No one ever questioned Sonny's character, his honesty, his forthrightness, his fairness, and so there's a huge amount of respect for him and it's a huge loss for our community."
Congressman John Rose and Senator Marsha Blackburn also shared their shock for the loss and how the Sheriff will be deeply missed.
"I'm shocked and heartbroken by the loss of a friend and a true public servant, Sheriff Sonny Weatherford," said Rose. "My prayers are with his family, especially his wife Tammy and sons Michael and Dustin, as well as the men and women in the Sumner County Sheriff's Office."
"Sumner County Sheriff Sonny Weatherford dedicated more than 40 years of his life to protecting his community with great compassion, courage, and leadership," said Blackburn. "He will be deeply missed by many in Tennessee. May God comfort his family and loved ones during this difficult time."
It’s a sad reality that area animal shelters and non-profit rescue organizations face constant overcrowding -- with so many dogs, cats and other animals waiting for a forever home. Jason Lamb reports here that Metro leaders are working with those groups – including Critter Cavalry – to find solutions. I’ve fostered a dog from Critter Cavalry, so I understand the need is great. And I found my pup Domino through another local group, Proverbs Animal Rescue. Ultimately, it starts with all of us. Getting more dogs and cats spayed or neutered can help control the pet population – and ease the burden.
-Rhori Johnston
