The tight-knit Polk County community is reeling from the unexpected loss of a dedicated police officer who died suddenly at her home on Tuesday evening. Angela “Angie” Shurley, a 27-year veteran of the Polk County Sheriff’s Office (PCSO), passed away at age 53, leaving behind a legacy of mentorship and compassion that touched countless lives.
A Life of Service
Shurley joined the PCSO in 1998, rising through the ranks to become a cornerstone of the department’s patrol and training divisions. Known for her steady demeanor and infectious enthusiasm, she served primarily in community policing roles, fostering trust between law enforcement and residents across the county’s rural and urban areas.
Her career highlights included leading youth outreach programs and mentoring new recruits during high-crime response training.
Colleagues described her as an “introverted extrovert” who balanced quiet reflection with unwavering support for her team.
No further details on the cause of death have been released, as the family and authorities respect their request for privacy during this time.
The PCSO confirmed the news in a heartfelt statement released Wednesday morning, emphasizing Shurley’s profound impact: “To know Angie was to love her. She was an absolute joy to be around and like a mother to many of our officers, imparting professional knowledge from her years of service and the wisdom gained through her 53 years on Earth. She was a calming voice of reason to all she met.”
Tributes Pour In
Sheriff Grady Judd, who has led the department for over two decades, shared personal reflections during a brief press conference outside the PCSO headquarters. “Angie wasn’t just a colleague; she was family. Her passing leaves a hole in our heart that words can’t fill. We’re honoring her by continuing the work she loved so much.”
Fellow officers and community members have flooded social media with memories, from stories of her baking treats for shift workers to her role in de-escalating tense situations with empathy. A memorial fund has been established through the PCSO Foundation to support her family and local charities she championed, such as domestic violence prevention initiatives.
Local leaders echoed the sentiment. Bartow Mayor Teresa Jefferson said, “Officer Shurley embodied the best of public service—kind, capable, and committed. Polk County is dimmer without her light.”
Community Impact and Next Steps
Shurley’s death comes as a stark reminder of the sacrifices made by those in law enforcement, particularly in a county that spans 2,000 square miles and serves over 700,000 residents. The PCSO has activated its peer support team to assist affected staff, and counseling services are available for the public through county resources.
Funeral arrangements are pending, with a public viewing expected early next week. The department plans a procession to honor her service.
In her memory, we encourage the community to reflect on the quiet heroes among us. Polk County Sheriff’s Office will provide updates as they become available. Our deepest condolences to the Shurley family and the entire PCSO team