Robin Ernest Venable

Robin Ernest Venable, a respected and beloved figure in law enforcement and our tri-state community, passed away after a valiant battle with cancer on Sunday, January 26, 2025. He was born in Middlesboro, KY on January 19, 1966, to the late Robert and Louise Johnson Venable. 

A graduate of the Middlesboro High School’s Class of '85, Robin continued his education by earning his Peace Officer Professional Standards Certification from the Kentucky Department of Criminal Justice in Richmond, KY. With a distinguished career spanning over 30 years, Robin dedicated his life to the service and protection of his community through various roles, including tenures at the Middlesboro Police Department, the Fayette County, KY, Sheriff's Department, the Transylvania University Department of Public Safety, the Bell County Sheriff's Department, and most recently as the elected Bell County Jailer.

Robin's commitment to serve and protect did not go unnoticed. He was honored with the Governor's Award for outstanding achievement in apprehending impaired drivers for multiple years. He was also recognized as the recipient of the "Most DUI Arrests in a 3rd Class City" award on two occasions, underscoring his dedication to keeping the roads safe. He was also recognized by local citizens and three service clubs by being named the Middlesboro Daily News People's Choice Awards, "Best Law Enforcement Officer", in 1999 and receiving the City Community Service Award from the Rotary Club, the Middlesboro Kiwanis Club, and the Lion's Club.

Beyond the badge #549, Robin was a passionate advocate for youth outreach, closely collaborating with the Middlesboro School System. He championed vital educational initiatives aimed at raising awareness about the perils of substance abuse. He introduced programs such as Ghost Out, Fatal Vision, and The Michigan Project, each designed to foster understanding and prevent the misuse of tobacco, alcohol, and drugs among students. Robin’s involvement extended to organizing Operation ABC, a city-wide effort to educate middle school students about the dangers of alcohol abuse. Robin’s influence reached even the youngest students as he participated in Read Across America events, forging lasting connections with the children in the community.

Robin's personality was as vibrant as his career was impactful. Known as one of a kind, he brought laughter and joy wherever he went. His penchant for pranks, contagious smile, and warmth lit up every room he entered, creating an atmosphere of happiness that left a lasting impression on all who knew him. Robin's unwavering love for people made him not just a good friend but a pillar of his community, where he was cherished and adored. His kindness and ability to bring a smile to others' faces ensured that there was never a moment of sadness in his presence.

Robin's legacy of service, education, and compassion will be sorely missed but will continue to inspire others. His contributions to the community and passion for helping others will be remembered and cherished by all who knew him.

In addition to his parents, Robin is preceded in death by his niece, Lindsey Nicole Southern; brother, Bobby Venable; and brother-in-law, Steve Agee. 

He is survived by his wife, Barbara; children, Dr. Bradley Ryan Venable and Erica Katelyn (Stephen) Venable-Hunter; grandson, Camden Luke Venable; siblings, Marsha Abbott, Randy (Shea) Venable, Roberta "Birdie" Agee, Regina Gambrel, and Teresa (Sarge) Southern; half siblings, Joyce Powers, and Bruce Venable; as well as a host of nieces, nephews, other family and friends.

The family of Robin Venable will receive friends on Saturday, February 1, 2025, from 5:00 p.m. until 7:00 p.m. at Middlesboro High School's Fuson Gymnasium, Middlesboro, KY. A memorial service will follow at 7:00 p.m. with Pastor Astor Simpson presiding. 

In lieu of flowers the family requests donations be made to Shop with a Cop (Middlesboro Police Department, Lt. Harvey Johnson, 150 North 20th Street, Middlesboro, KY 40965) and Friends of the Bell County Animal Shelter (P.O. Box 2534, Middlesboro, KY 40965). 

Online register book and condolences are available at www.cawoodfh.com.

All arrangements for Robin Ernest Venable are under the care of Cawood Funeral Home, Middlesboro, KY.