Law enforcement officials from across the state gathered in Albertville last Sunday to celebrate the life and mourn the loss of Marshall County Chief Deputy Steve Guthrie.
Guthrie died November 9 at the age of 58 following weeks of hospitalization due to medical complications. His long career in law enforcement stretched over 24 years, and Marshall County Sheriff Phil Sims was there for most of them.
"We lost a good one in Steve," Sims said during the ceremony, according to The Sand Mountain Reporter. "[His Family] will always be family to us… It's been a pleasure to serve with Steve for the past 24 years. He served with honor, integrity and dedication. May he rest in peace."
Guthrie was admitted to Marshall Medical South hospital on October 22 for stomach pains. His condition rapidly declined, and he was transferred to intensive care in Huntsville Hospital. At home, local businesses, churches and organizations rallied support for Guthrie and held vigils praying for his recovery.
After his death, condolences poured in from all over Alabama to support the Guthrie family. According to The Reporter, State Attorney General Steve Marshall, who once worked alongside the deputy, said, "Steve was a valuable member of the law enforcement community for many years, whether protecting domestic violence victims or taking illegal drugs off our streets. His contributions to the safety of this community and state will be greatly missed."
Alabama Law Enforcement Agency (ALEA) also issued a statement honoring Guthrie.
"On behalf of the Alabama Law Enforcement Agency, I would like to extend my deepest sympathies to both the friends and the family of Chief Deputy Steve Guthrie of the Marshall County Sheriff's Office," said ALEA Secretary Hal Taylor. "As the family, Sheriff's Office, and the community grieve, I have assured Sheriff Sims that we will make all ALEA resources available as they attempt to cope with this tragic loss. A dedicated law enforcement veteran of 30 years, Chief Deputy Guthrie's leadership, courage and sacrifice to his local community, as well as to the entire State of Alabama, is apparent by the overwhelming care and support already displayed by those he so faithfully served."
To connect with the author of this story, or to comment, email daniel.taylor@1819news.com.
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