Garland Police Department is mourning the loss of one of its most esteemed members, Detective Tommy Barnes, who passed away on May 18 following a courageous battle with metastatic breast cancer. Barnes, who was surrounded by his loving family and friends at the time of his passing, served the community faithfully as part of the department for over 17 years.
The Garland Police Department celebrated Detective Barnes' storied career, saying he "went to heaven on the early morning of Saturday, May 18," and honored him as an extraordinary officer whose commitment to service was evident throughout his life. Before joining the police force, Barnes served in the US Army 82nd Airborne Division, earning multiple medals for his service in Desert Storm.
After his military stint, Barnes continued his career in law enforcement, working as a correctional officer and then as a police officer at Joliet Junior College. According to the Garland Police Department, he joined the Garland Police Department in 2006, where he demonstrated his dedication by working in various capacities, from patrol to investigating property crimes, and also by being a part of the department's Honor Guard and Bicycle Unit.
Barnes' exemplary service was frequently recognized, accruing 29 certificates of Merit, nine certificates of Merit Bars, two Officer of the Month Awards, and 20 letters of appreciation. Having dedicated 30 years to his wife, leaving behind three sons and a grandson as well, Barnes was lauded by the Garland Police Department for leading by example as "a spiritual, loving, and hardworking person."
The Garland Police Department concluded with a tribute to Barnes' legacy, "Detective Tommy Barnes, thank you for your life of dedication to others, and thank you for being a living example for which we ought to become. We miss you, we love you, and we have it from here." Detective Tommy Barnes' commitment to his family, faith, and the force serves as a beacon for those he leaves behind, ensuring that his legacy of service will continue to inspire.
