Knox County, TN (WOKI) – From: Kimberly Glenn, Communications Director on behalf of Sheriff Tom Spangler – Knox County Sheriff’s Office
It is with heavy hearts that we share that Knox County Sheriff’s Office Chief Deputy Bernie Lyon and candidate for Knox County Sheriff is currently hospitalized and in the ICU. Chief Lyon is presently receiving excellent care from a medical team working tirelessly to support his recovery.
Chief Lyon — “Bernie,” as he insists everyone call him, has devoted the past 46 years of his life to serving the citizens of Knox County with unwavering dedication, integrity, and heart. To the men and women of the Knox County Sheriff’s Office, he is not only a leader, but a mentor, a friend, and a brother in blue.
Today, he needs us. Sheriff Tom Spangler is asking our community, our law enforcement partners, and all who know and love Bernie to stand in the gap for him and lift him in prayer. Your support means more than words can express.
We will provide updates as appropriate, and we ask that everyone continue to keep Chief Deputy Lyon and his family in their thoughts during this difficult time.
From Bernie Lyon for Sheriff website:
About Bernie Lyon
Chief Deputy Bernie Lyon
Knox County Sheriff’s Office
Chief Deputy Bernie Lyon has dedicated nearly 46 years of honorable service to the Knox County Sheriff’s Office. Beginning as the agency’s first Control Room Operator, he worked his way through the ranks with passion and professionalism, serving in the Corrections Division, DUI Enforcement Team, as a Narcotics Detective, Patrol Supervisor, Detectives Supervisor, Internal Affairs, and Assistant Chief Deputy.
In 2018, Sheriff Tom Spangler selected Chief Lyon to serve as his Chief Deputy. After Sheriff Spangler was overwhelmingly re‑elected in 2022, he once again called on Chief Lyon to continue serving in this key leadership role.
Chief Lyon has been recognized throughout his career for his exceptional service, including being named KCSO Officer of the Year. He attended Walter’s State Community College, graduated from the Donaldson Police Academy, and completed the FBI National Academy, in 1991, where he earned his POST Certification.
Public safety and service run deep in his family. Chief Lyon was blessed to serve alongside his father, Chaplain Gale Lyon, his late brother, Chief Keith Lyon, and his brother, Chaplain Leland Lyon. He is also a proud father to his son, Taylor.
Chief Deputy Lyon’s leadership, integrity, and steadfast commitment to his colleagues and community are hallmarks of a career that has strengthened the Sheriff’s Office and protected the citizens of Knox County for more than four decades.
Bernie Lyon (bernieforsheriff.com)
