Marion Technical College, community honor slain officer
The memory of a fallen deputy sheriff lives on. Marion Technical College recently named its Ohio Peace Officer Training Academy (OPOTA) classroom in honor of Deputy Brandy Winfield, an alumnus who was killed in the line of duty.
“Thank you for bestowing this honor on Brandy. He was so special to us,” said his widow, Sara Winfield.
In addition to his mother, his brother, and his two sons, many members of the community remembered Winfield’s heart, dedication and hard work.
“I had the honor and privilege of working with the Winfield family,” said Sheriff Matt Bayles. “Oct. 14, 2004, changed my life and the lives of law enforcement officers in Marion County.”
That was the day that Winfield was shot investigating a report of a disabled vehicle. He was just 29 years old.
“Brandy was a tenacious worker, who loved being in law enforcement. He loved catching thieves. He loved helping people,” Bayles said. “He had an even greater love for his wife and kids.”
Many people donated to the fund to name the classroom in Winfield’s honor, including his elementary school art teacher. While she remembers young students causing chaos, Winfield stood out.
“One little guy sat and watched, did his best, and listened. He did it every week,” said Connie Brown. “I have always remembered him because he was so outstanding.”
Another instructor in high school and at the Marion Technical College law enforcement academy remembered being one of many teachers impressed with Winfield being prepared, punctual and a class leader who volunteered and won many contests among cadets. Bayles said as an officer, Winfield took all the training he could to improve his skills.
Winfield was also remembered for his sense of humor, his mischievous smile, infectious laugh and love of jokes.
Winfield’s son, Landon, is graduating from the academy this spring and attends the classroom named in his father’s honor.
“Brandy Winfield is an example to all of our cadets,” said Greg Perry, commander of the academy and director of law and criminal justice at Marion Tech.
“The Marion community has been so generous in supporting this memorial,” said Mike Stuckey, director of the Marion Technical College Foundation.
Generous donations from the community have raised $14,352 for the $20,000 goal. Marion Tech is still accepting donations for the Winfield fund, which will support training and fitness equipment for the law enforcement academy. To make a donation, go to bit.ly/Give-To-Next and designate the Winfield fund. For more information, go to mtc.edu.
This article originally appeared on Marion Star: Marion Technical College, community honor slain officer
