Joseph W. "Sonny" Lanier, Jr.

I worked with Sonny for many years and found him to be a great person, a good officer and a good friend who would help you if you needed it I learned many things from Sonny one of was to treat all people with respect and not to jump to conclusions before you investigate. He will be missed by all of us who knew him but he will never be forgotten by us. Tommy Williams former Chief KBPD.

First let me express my heart-felt condolences to Mrs. Lanier and family for your sorrow and your loss. Sonny Lanier was the finest law enforcement officer I have ever known and believe me I have met a few in my lifetime. Sonny had more integrity, honesty, and passion for his law enforcement work than most others. Sonny was likeable, friendly, funny and compassionate towards others. He would also slap you down and put you in your place if he had to, I know because I have been on both sides...

i have fond memories of Sonny and going out on his boat as a young "Yankee". I was so proud to have known him. Sharon my condolences to you and your mom. Sonny is at peace. You two have done so much for him during his last few years. I am so sorry but I know he loved you all.



With love and sympathy

Michael and Myrna Byrd

Sonny was my friend and work associate. He was my major and my sheriff. He and Betty Jean treated me like family. He oversaw my promotion to sergeant and SWAT commander and lieutenant and when I asked him for the promotion to captain of the Patrol Division, he said "You got it." On one particularly long SWAT deployment he came to the scene after an all night observation and said, "You don't have him out yet?" I said, "Give me five minutes, Major." The subject was out in four minutes. ...

Sad news. For many years I worked with Sonny's mother, Virginia Lanier. She was so proud of Sonny. Sending love to his family.

Sonny was truly a "Man's Man." Many are like a weather vane --- all you can tell by watching them is which way the wind is blowing, and it changes from time to time. This was not Sonny --- he was a compass for the rest of us. You could always tell "true north" by watching him. He never varied --- he knew what was right, and he did it. I admired him, I loved him and I will miss him.

My love to Betty Jean and the rest of the family. I'll be praying for you all. Godspeed...

Betty Jean, I am so sorry for your loss. My sympathy and prayers to you and your family. Love you.

He was a great man and friend. An excellent Sherriff. He was wonderful to our family when my husband,Bradley E Parker, worked for him and at his death in 2001.