Polk County Deputy Terra McKinnon Dies After Brave Battle with Breast Cancer
Deputy Terra McKinnon, a nearly 20-year veteran of the Polk County Sheriff’s Office, has died at 45 after a brave battle with breast cancer. Read abou
The Polk County Sheriff’s Office is mourning the loss of Deputy Terra McKinnon, a nearly 20-year veteran of the force, who passed away following a courageous battle with breast cancer. She was 45 years old. Sheriff Grady Judd confirmed that McKinnon succumbed to an illness that overwhelmed her while her immune system was compromised.
Deputy McKinnon joined the Polk County Sheriff’s Office in 2006 and quickly earned a reputation for her dedication, professionalism, and positive spirit. Colleagues remembered her as a “beautiful soul” with an infectious smile who left a lasting mark on the community and the law enforcement family she served.
Sheriff Judd expressed profound sorrow over her passing, calling the loss “heartbreaking” and praising her unwavering commitment to public service. The sheriff’s office also extended condolences to her family, friends, and fellow officers, noting the void her death leaves in the department.
Throughout her battle with breast cancer, McKinnon remained a source of inspiration for those around her, demonstrating courage, strength, and dedication both in her personal fight and in her decades of service to Polk County.
Her legacy will continue to be remembered by the countless lives she touched throughout her career and by the community she served so faithfully.
