The Henry County Police Department has received an outpouring of support following the loss of a well-loved sergeant who died Thursday from complications of COVID-19.
The department shared the news of Sgt. David Crumpler’s death on its Facebook page Thursday evening along with a photo of the police veteran enjoying a dessert.
“One of the last things you said to me was, ‘That photo better not end up on the Facebook,’” the post read. “But I feel like Henry County needs to know who you really were. A gentleman, a teacher, and a sprinkle-loving, joy-filled servant.”
Those who worked alongside Crumpler over the years shared stories about the impact he had on their lives — not just professionally, but personally as well.
As of Friday morning, the post announcing his death had received more than 300 comments and had been shared over 3,000 times.
“He was a character! He loved life and making people smile,” one friend wrote. “... If there is a position for gate holder with St. Peter to keep an eye on things, that’s where he will be stationed.”
Crumpler’s colleagues said he previously retired from the department, but came back part-time as a training instructor because he loved what he did. Several people described him as upbeat, outgoing and funny — someone who took their job seriously but was always quick to crack a joke.
“He greeted every single citizen with so much respect that it was obvious he was there to serve and protect,” the department wrote. “Going out to eat with him was a long endeavor because he’d hold the door open for EVERYONE going, ‘ma’am, sir, ma’am, sir.’”
One of Crumpler’s longtime friends wrote that he had been in a medically-induced coma and on a ventilator for more than a week before dying Thursday. He shared a photo of the police sergeant riding a motorcycle and urged people to take the virus seriously.
“I have enjoyed his friendship for many years and have shared many, many miles with him by my side,” he wrote. “Everyone needs to take COVID seriously and do the right thing to protect yourself and those around you. David was fit, strong, and full of life. We will miss him, but we will never forget him.”
Crumpler’s death comes less than a week after Henry County Deputy Nicholas Howell succumbed to COVID complications at Henry Piedmont Hospital. Howell, who joined the sheriff’s office in February 2019, was described as a “consummate law enforcement professional” and a devoted husband and father of five. He was 36.
Crumpler’s funeral arrangements have not been announced.
— Please return to AJC.com for updates.
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