Holly MatkinOberlin, LA – Allen Parish Sheriff’s Office (APSO) Deputy Darrell Semien died on Sunday following a battle against cancer.
In addition to serving with the APSO, Deputy Semien, 55, also worked as a patrol officer with the Reeves Police Department (RPD) over the course of the past 15 years, according to his obituary.
Deputy Semien also spent 20 years working as a crane operator prior to embarking on his law enforcement career, where he “truly found his calling,” the tribute read.
He passed away on Jan. 24, just over one month after he was diagnosed with cancer, KPLC reported.
“It is with tremendous sadness that we report the passing of Deputy Darrell Semien,” the APSO said in a Facebook post later that night. “Dep. Semien passed away in his home surrounded by family.”
Deputy Semien served in the APSO’s Transport Division in addition to his patrol duties with the RPD.
“He served with honor and will be deeply missed,” the sheriff’s office said. “Our thoughts and prayers go out to his wife Karla and the rest of his family.”
Deputy Semien’s family described him as a “very loving and caring person” who always wanted to make others laugh, according to his obituary.
“He was always very outgoing, genuine, compassionate and generous,” the tribute read.
Deputy Semien and his wife of 20 years, Karla, have been foster parents for the past 16 years, and have welcomed 72 children into their home.
“Darrell will be forever missed and unconditionally loved by all who knew and loved him,” his obituary read.
Deputy Semien also leaves behind his seven children, Corey, Tyler, Malachi, Kimberly, Shayla, Madison, and Miracle, as well as his granddaughter, Ever.
He is also survived by his siblings, in-laws, nieces, nephews, and godchildren.
Deputy Semien will be laid to rest on Saturday.
Our thoughts and prayers are with the family of Allen Parish Sheriff’s Office Deputy Darrell Semien, both blood and blue. Thank you for your service.
Rest easy, hero. We’ll hold the line from here.
