GARLAND, Texas — The Garland Police Department announced on Wednesday the death a detective who had been serving the community for more than 17 years.
Detective Tommy Barnes was diagnosed with metastatic breast cancer three years ago and lost his battle on May 18, the department said in a Facebook post. He was 52.
"He fought hard and refused to give up. He stayed steadfast in his faith, focused on his wife and family, and insisted on coming to work every day," Garland PD said.
Metastatic breast cancer is considered advanced stage IV breast cancer because it spreads to different organs or lymph nodes far from the breast, according to the Abramson Cancer Center.
"He was surrounded by his loving wife, family, and close friends," Garland PD said.
Barnes joined the department in October 2006 as a Lateral Police Officer. He worked in Patrol, the Neighborhood Police Officer Unit, and as a Detective investigating property crimes. Barnes also served in the department’s Honor Guard and Bicycle Unit.
The department described Barnes as extraordinary, spiritual, loving, and a man who led by example.
During his 17-and-a-half years with Garland PD, he was recognized and awarded 29 certificates of Merit, earned nine certificates of Merit Bars, received two Officer of the Month Awards, and 20 letters of appreciation in his file.
Before his time with Garland PD, Barnes joined the U.S. Army 82nd Airborne Division from 1989 to 1993, serving in Desert Storm throughout Kuwait and southern Iraq.
He earned multiple accolades, including the National Defense Service Medal, the Southwest Asia Service Medal with Bronze Service Star-2, the Army Good Conduct Medal, the Army Commendation Metal, the M16 Sharpshooter Badge, the Parachutist Badge, the Kuwait Liberation Medal-Saudi Arabia, the Combat Infantry Badge, and the Army Service Ribbon.
After his military service, Barnes worked as a Correctional Officer in Crest Hill, Ill., before working as a police officer for the Joliet Junior College. Barnes then moved to Ardmore, Okla., where he was a police officer for two years.
"He will be deeply missed by all who loved and knew him," Garland PD said.
Barnes is survived by his wife of 30 years, three children, and one grandson.
"Detective Tommy Barnes, thank you for your life of dedication to others and thank you for being a living example for which we ought to become. We miss you, we love you, and we have it from here. Rest in Peace, sir," the department said.
