Serving OUR Why did you decide to be a police officer? In the West Jackson neighborhood where I grew up, there were several Jackson police officers. One lived next door that would allow me to ride along with him on his shift at times. The other officers became mentors to me as well. I decided that this is what I would do also. Serve and protect. How long have you been a police officer in Rankin County? I’ve been a Pearl police officer for 42 years (1976-2018). Tell us about your family. I married Debbie Hankins on May 26, 1973, in Jackson, Mississippi. We both attended Hinds Jr. College and the University of Southern Mississippi. She is a former elementary deaf educator. I graduated with a degree in criminal justice. We have a daughter, Adriann, and a son, Aaron. Adriann is currently in college seeking a new chapter. She received veterinary technician certification from Mississippi State University. Aaron was an MP in the Marine Corps and is now a firefighter for the City of Pearl. Share some things you enjoy doing in your spare time. I love to work with wood. I enjoy making spoons, bowls, birdhouses, and other crafts. I have made a banjo and a mandolin. I enjoy playing the guitar nowadays. I also enjoy camping and gardening. What are three things on your bucket list? Finish the “honey do list,” travel more in our RV, and visit Jerusalem. CHIEF Ronnie Conerly BRANDON POLICE DEPARTMENT What is the toughest thing you have experienced in your job? The toughest thing I experienced was the tragic loss of a fellow officer killed in the line of duty. On May 1, 2012, Detective Mike Walter, was shot and killed by an assailant hiding in a bathroom in a local apartment complex in Pearl. Mike and several other detectives were attempting to serve an arrest warrant on the suspect. When the suspect was found hiding in the bathroom, he opened fire on the officers. An exchange of gunfire took place resulting in the suspect, and two detectives being shot. Mike was fatally wounded. The suspect was eventually shot and killed by another detective. Though I was not present, this was an overwhelming and heartbreaking dose of reality—especially for his wife, child, and family. Who is someone you admire and why? I admire my wife, Debbie. We will have been married for forty-five years this May. Forty-two of those years she has stood by my side as I worked in law enforcement. Her faith in God, and her endurance when faced with challenges in life, some of which I created, have enabled us to go through some tough times. Her unconditional love for me and our family, and the belief that God’s goodness will prevail and restore is a blessing. Where do you see yourself ten years from now? I hope to still be active and still traveling around with Debbie. But God’s got my timetable in His hands. If you could give one piece of advice to a young person, what would it be? To help others, be thoughtful of others in this journey of life, and to not have a “me” attitude. What is a favorite childhood memory? Going swimming with my family in an old swimming hole. There was a long rope tied to an old gum tree that we would swing out from and jump into the water. I can still smell the gum tree and feel the chilly water in the creek. What is your favorite thing about Rankin County? For the most part, the people are supportive of law enforcement and willing to assist in many ways. They will also let you know when you could do better. 120 • April 2018
Chief Conerly Retirement Party • February 28 Hometown Rankin • 121