Dooly County man starts memorial fund for longtime sheriff

Former Dooly County Sheriff Van Peavy died three months ago from a heart attack while recovering from surgery.

Cross presented the Dooly County Sheriff’s Office with a $2,500 check he received from Monsanto, America’s Farmers Grow Commnunities.

Van Peavy served as Dooly County Sheriff since 1985, until his death on Jan. 6.

“He was a man of integrity and he did his job well, raised his family well, and I’m just proud to know him and call him a friend,” says Cross.

Peavy’s son, Craig, was named the interim sheriff. He was sworn in as Dooly County Sheriff the same day of his father’s funeral.

“He was elected and took office when he was 48 years-old and that’s actually how old I am now,” explained Craig. “He’s always have been a big part of the law enforcement community and he just has some big shoes to fill. I started when I was 18, beside him, so I’ve been here 30 years myself.”

When the interim sheriff learned about the donation to the memorial fund, he thought it was a great way to honor the man who dedicated his life to protecting the community.

“This is a very heart-felt and genuine donation and that obviously, it’s very personal to he and his family and for the service that… sheriff Van Peavy has given,” says Monsanto District Manager, Holly Walker.

Cross believes the memorial is well-deserved.

“The community has been better served by him than any sheriff, I guess in my lifetime,” added Cross.

Sheriff Craig Peavy is facing Thomas Williams in the special election for Dooly County Sheriff. Residents will go to the polls on March 17, to cast their ballots.

The Dooly County Sheriff’s Office is accepting donations for the Sheriff Van Peavy Memorial fund, the office is located at 976 Pinehurst Hawkinsville Rd, in Pinehurst, Georgia. For more information about the memorial fund call 229-645-0911.