On Monday legislators reported to the Mississippi State Capitol for the 2017 Special Session.
Before the work began in the House, Representatives honored a very special family. The family of fallen Lincoln County Sheriff’s Deputy William Durr.
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Durr was killed in the line of duty on May 28. That same night seven other people were shot and killed in Lincoln County. Willie Cory Godbolt was arrested and charged with those murders just one day after they happened.
Rep. Becky Currie spoke highly of Durr’s character and how the community loved him.
“William was known in our town by his love of God, his family, his job in law enforcement and he loved children and his son Nash,” said Currie.
Durr was remembered as a good, Christian man who always had an encouraging word for others. Currie spoke directly to Durr’s son Nash, who was at the Capitol Monday and reminded him that his father was a hero not only because of the badge he carried as an officer, but because he carried God’s badge.
The family released this statement:
“William Durr was a wonderful husband, father, son, brother, son-in-law, and uncle to our family. He was a terrific friend to many. He served his Lord with his entire being. His love for others was portrayed in his service in law enforcement. William enjoyed life because he truly wanted to be a blessing for others. William had a love for young people. He served various churches in numerous positions. His work with preschoolers, children, youth, and college students rendered dividends many will not fathom, only God himself knows the true extent of William’s work. His service to God was not reserved for Sunday’s alone. Time and again William would share God’s love to those he encountered while serving as a deputy sheriff or police officer. He would take the time to pray for those in need of God’s love and peace. His love knew no boundaries. William will be missed by all who knew him. His legacy of love and service will live long after his body is no longer here.”
Speaker of the House Philip Gunn spoke of the sacrifice Durr made, and the sadness and loss his family is now feeling. He closed the time with representatives and Durr’s family with a word of prayer.
“…Lord, we don’t always understand your ways, but we do know these truths. That you love us, and care for us. That you’ll never leave us or forsake us. That you’re always with us…”
