Jerry Dean Joslin, a longtime law enforcement officer who served Fairfield, Illinois, as both police chief and later Wayne County sheriff, died on Friday, October 9, 2026, at the age of 85.
Joslin passed away at 6:45 a.m. at Deaconess Gateway Hospital in Newburgh, Indiana, following a brief illness, according to his obituary. He leaves behind his wife of more than six decades, Karen Joslin, their children, grandchildren and great-grandchildren.
Early Life and Military Service
Born on July 24, 1941, in Fairfield, Illinois, Jerry was the son of Walter and Bertie Sanders Joslin. He grew up in the community and graduated from Fairfield Community High School in 1959.
After completing his education, he enlisted in the United States Marine Corps. Following his military service, he returned to his hometown and began a career in local law enforcement that would span many years.
A Career Serving Fairfield and Wayne County
Joslin joined the Fairfield Police Department and eventually rose to the position of chief of police. After retiring from that role, he later returned to public service as sheriff of Wayne County, serving two terms before retiring in 2002.
His years in law enforcement formed a significant part of his life and connected him closely with the community he called home.
Hobbies and Family Memories
Outside his professional responsibilities, Joslin enjoyed training Standardbred racehorses, hunting and fishing. He was also a devoted St. Louis Cardinals supporter.
Family was especially important to him. One of his greatest pleasures was watching his grandchildren and great-grandchildren take part in sporting events. He made a point of attending their games whenever possible, showing his support from the sidelines.
Family Members Left to Mourn
Joslin is survived by his wife, Karen Joslin of Fairfield, and their children: Scott Joslin and his wife, Janet, of Rochester, Illinois; Jennifer Townsend and her husband, Jon, of Fairfield; and Joe Joslin of Cisne, Illinois.
His grandchildren are Shelby Benskin and her husband, Gregg; Jake Joslin and his wife, Taylor; Luke Townsend and his wife, Billie Jo; and Jaycie Alewelt and her husband, Connor.
He also leaves six great-grandchildren: Bella Benskin, Ruger Benskin, Millie Benskin, Dean Townsend, Nolan Joslin and Leighton Joslin.
Those who died before him include his parents, Walter and Bertie Joslin; his brother, Jimmy Joslin; his sister, Sammie Bone; his infant brother, Bobby Joslin; and his grandson, Matthew Townsend.
Funeral and Burial Arrangements
Funeral services for Jerry Dean Joslin are scheduled for 1 p.m. on Tuesday, October 13, 2026, at Johnson and Vaughn Funeral Home in Fairfield.
Visitation will take place at the funeral home from 11 a.m. until the start of the service. Burial will follow at Maple Hill Cemetery, where full military honors will be provided by Anthony Wayne Post #176 of the American Legion and Wayne County Post #4535 of the Veterans of Foreign Wars.
Memorial contributions may be made to Feeding the Kids of Wayne County. Donations will be accepted at Johnson and Vaughn Funeral Home, which is handling the arrangements.
Jerry Dean Joslin Obituary and Cause of Death
Jerry Dean Joslin, 85, of Fairfield, Illinois, died on October 9, 2026, at Deaconess Gateway Hospital in Newburgh, Indiana. His obituary states that he passed away following a brief illness. The specific medical condition responsible for his death was not disclosed.
Remembered for his decades of public service, his military background and his devotion to his family, Joslin leaves a lasting place in the lives of those who knew him. May his family and loved ones find comfort in their memories as they say goodbye.
Leave a Reply