Holly MatkinIndianola, IA – Humphreys County Sheriff Charles Sharkey died unexpectedly after suffering a medical emergency on March 7.
The 57-year-old sheriff collapsed inside a grocery store and was rushed to South Sunflower County Hospital, where he passed away shortly before 11 a.m., WAPT reported.
His exact cause of death was not released.
Belzoni Mayor Joe Jackson confirmed Sheriff Sharkey’s death in a statement to the Darkhorse Press.
“The Mayor and Board of Aldermen of the City of Belzoni would like to extend our condolences, love, and support to the family of Sheriff Charles Sharkey,” Jackson wrote. “He was a good friend, a committed servant of God and mankind. He was truly a team player.”
The mayor said Sheriff Sharkey was committed to improving his community and keeping its citizens safe.
“Charles genuinely wanted to see Humphreys County be as good as it could be,” Jackson said. “We share your pain and we really need one another. We are simply better together. We love you all and pray God gives you strength during this time.”
The George Count Sheriff’s Office (GCSO) offered its condolences in a Facebook post on March 8.
“Our thoughts and prayers go out to the family, friends and coworkers of Humphreys County Sheriff’s Department Sheriff Charles Sharkey during this difficult time,” the GCSO said. “Sheriff Sharkey had only recently taken office and was from all accounts a true servant to his community.”
“His untimely passing yesterday will be felt by all who knew him, and we ask that you keep the citizens of Humphreys County in your prayers,” the agency added.
Sheriff Sharkey leaves behind his wife, Carol, and his children, Christopher, Michael, and Kristi, according to his obituary.
He is also survived by his nine siblings, grandchildren, nieces, nephews, cousins, aunts, and many friends and colleagues.
Sheriff Sharkey was laid to rest on March 12.
People are saddened and shocked by the death of Humphreys County Sheriff Charles Sharkey. The coroner says the 57-year-old was pronounced dead just before 11:00 a.m. at South Sunflower County Hospital in nearby Indianola after collapsing in a grocery store. (1 of 2) pic.twitter.com/MKqnt3S2Y3
— Erin Pickens (@erinpickensWAPT) March 7, 2022
Our thoughts and prayers are with the family of Humphreys County Sheriff Charles Sharkey, both blood and blue. Thank you for your service.
Rest easy, hero. We’ll hold the line from here.
