Capt. Joe C. Herndon

Capt. Joe C. Herndon. - 75
Of Valdosta, Georgia passed away on Wednesday, March 26, 2025, at his residence. He was born to the late Corris Harlow Herndon Jr. and Margaret Lee Herndon on July 9, 1949, in Valdosta, Georgia.
Captain Joe Herndon was a dedicated and respected law enforcement officer with an impressive career spanning over 35 years. He retired as a captain after serving with distinction in several key roles within the Georgia Department of Corrections. In addition to his time in the department of corrections, he also served as Assistant Chief in Ray City. He also worked as a police officer at Lakeland Police Department and the Berrien County Sheriff’s Office, he worked in the K9 unit at Valdosta State Prison, showcasing his versatility and leadership in the field of law enforcement. Mason and held the title of Firearms Instructor, with a shooting range named in his honor, the "Captain Joe Herndon Range." Throughout his career, Captain Herndon also served as President of the Georgia Correctional Officers Association (GCOA) for both state and local chapters. He was a committed advocate for his fellow officers, ensuring that their voices were heard, and their work was recognized. Furthermore, he was a member of the American Correctional Association (ACA) contributing to the welfare of correctional officers throughout his career. In addition to his law enforcement career, Captain Herndon owned and operated Herndon Tax Services for an astounding 56 years alongside his loving spouse, Carolyn Herndon, demonstrating his entrepreneurial spirit and dedication to helping others with their financial needs. He was a proud member of Lakeland Masonic Lodge #434 for over 25 years and a dedicated member of the Scottish Rite. He was deeply involved in the community and in organizations that fostered personal growth and service to others. Captain Herndon’s legacy is one of service, leadership, and dedication to both his profession and his community. When he wasn't serving the community, Captain Herndon enjoyed a well-earned respite on the water. He loved fishing, finding peace and relaxation in his favorite pastime. Along with his parents, he is preceded in death by his brother, Mose C Herndon and sister, Corliss H. Walker. Survivors include his loving and devoted wife of 41 years, Carolyn L. Herndon; children: Lareatha and James Clark, Jodie and Michael Taylor, Larry Akins, Chandler Herndon II, and Nicole Herndon; grandchildren: Shane and Brittany Clark, Tyler Clark, Megan Clark, Jordan and Pearl Taylor, Miranda and Carrine Jones, Katelyn Akins, Cameron Herndon, Colby and Laura Herndon, JC Herndon, and Mackenzie Terry; great grandchildren: Liam Clark, Lincoln Taylor, Kenner Raine, Caden Thomas, Everette Herndon, and Genevieve Herndon; numerous nieces, nephews, and extended family members. Funeral services will be held at 2:00 PM, Saturday March 29, 2025, in the Chapel of Music Funeral Services with burial to follow in Guthrie Cemetery, Nashville, Georgia. The family will receive friends on Friday, March 28, 2025 from 5:00 PM to 8:00 PM at the funeral home. Kind words and expressions of sympathy can be left for the family at www.musicfuneralservices.com . The Herndon Family is being served by the professional and caring staff of Music Funeral Services of Valdosta.