The community is mourning the loss of Caldwell County Jailer Willie Harper, who passed away on Wednesday after a hard-fought battle with cancer.
Officials with the Caldwell County Jail shared his passing on social media and said that Harper served the “facility and our community with dedication, integrity, and a deep commitment to public service.” They said his “leadership and compassion touched the lives of staff, inmates, and countless families over the years.” They ask that you keep Harper’s family, friends, and colleagues in your thoughts during this difficult time.
Harper was diagnosed with pancreatic cancer over the summer, and the community rallied together, organizing several fundraisers to help support both his treatment and his family.
Harper was elected as jailer in the November 2022 General Election after defeating his opponent, Cheryl Pettit, who at the time was the deputy jailer.
Before being elected as the county’s jailer, Harper was a business owner and a member of the Princeton Fire Department for 8 years.
He leaves behind his wife, Candace, and two sons.
The WPKY staff extends our heartfelt condolences to Harper’s family and asks the community to keep his loved ones, friends, and co-workers in your thoughts and prayers during this difficult time.
