A Tennessee community came together in grief and gratitude as Blount County Deputy Justin Mowery was laid to rest, honoring a life defined by service, courage, and quiet determination.
Few days ahead of the New Year, Deputy Mowery was laid to rest at Berry Highland Memorial Cemetery in Knoxville, Tennessee, following a funeral service held Sunday that drew family, friends, fellow deputies, and members of the community.
The deputy died in the line of duty after crashing while pursuing a motorcyclist on December 28, 2025. The crash happened around 5:15 p.m. on December 28 along Miser Station Road in Louisville, authorities said.
According to the Blount County Sheriff’s Office, officials have not released specific details about how the incident unfolded. However, in a Facebook post, the department said investigators are trying to identify a motorcyclist seen in squad car footage recorded as a deputy was responding to the crash.
The video shows the motorcyclist traveling through a field off Lane Drive in the direction of U.S. Highway 321.
Remembered for Courage and Commitment
Deputy Mowery, who served with the Blount County Sheriff’s Office for five years, was just 30 years old. Those who worked alongside him described a deputy who never hesitated to step up, no matter the mission.
“He was always down for whatever the mission was, and he never complained,” said SWAT Commander Rusty Aycocke, speaking at the service.
Blount County Sheriff James Berrong echoed that sentiment, highlighting Mowery’s dedication across multiple roles.
“I don’t have the words,” Berrong said. “He’s a field training officer, he’s on a SWAT team, a deep desire to help others. Every day he put on that uniform, knowing the risk, yet he answered the call anyway. In today’s world, that takes true courage.”
A Deputy Who Led by Example
Beyond his official titles, those closest to Mowery remembered him as someone who inspired others through action rather than words. Aycocke, visibly emotional, spoke directly to his fallen colleague during the service.
“Justin, I love you and thank you for all that you were and all that you are, and I have faith that I’ll see you again,” he said.
A Brother’s Promise
One of the most moving moments came from Jarod Mowery, Justin’s brother, who reflected on the lessons he learned growing up alongside him.
“I trust that the same God who gave me my brother is the same God who is holding him now,” Jarod said. “One of the most important things he taught me is how to get back up. So that’s what we’re gonna do.”
As law enforcement officers stood in formation and loved ones said their final goodbyes, the message was clear: Deputy Justin Mowery’s impact reached far beyond the badge. He is remembered not only for how he died, but for how he lived, showing up, serving others, and answering the call every single day.
