America’s Longest-Serving Sheriff, Who Was Elected While Jimmy Carter Was Still Ga. Governor, Dead at 92

Mar. 15, 2025

A photo of Sheriff Cullen Talton from the Coweta County Sheriff’s Office.Photo:Coweta County Sheriff’s Office/Facebook

Coweta County Sheriff’s Office/Facebook

A Georgia law enforcement officer, who was America’s longest serving sheriff, has died at the age of 92.

Former Houston County Sheriff Cullen Talton — who spent five decades on the force — died “peacefully” in his home on the morning of Saturday, Oct. 19, the Houston County Sheriff’s Office announced onFacebook.

Warner Robins Mayor LaRhonda W. Patrick shared a separate tribute onFacebook, writing that it was a “privilege to work alongside the legend and longest serving sheriff in our country’s history” and that she was “honored to have an opportunity to get to know him and learn from him.”

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Talton was born on Oct. 16, 1932, in Bonaire, Ga., and worked as a dairy farmer prior to taking on a role in public service as a county commissioner, according to hisobituary. He was eventually elected sheriff in 1972 — whenJimmy Carterwas still the state’s governor — and served 13 terms in the role before he announced his retirement in January, per Fox and ABC affiliateWGXA.

“Sheriff Talton’s legacy of selfless service and dedication to his community will be cherished. He leaves behind a profound impact that will resonate for generations to come,” his obituary read.

His death comes about six years after the death of his wife Peggy Sears Talton. He leaves behind four children and several grandchildren and great-grandchildren.

His funeral is scheduled for Tuesday, Oct. 22. According to his family, any donations made in his memory will be sent to Georgia Sheriffs’ Youth Homes.

source: people.com