Long-time former Warren County Sheriff Jerry “Peanuts” Gaines was honored this week at a fundraiser for something near and dear to his heart.
As one of the founding members of the sheriffs’ Boys and Girls Ranch, Gaines, who served as KACo president in 2014, was lauded for his 40 years of service to Warren County and Kentucky at a fundraiser for the ranch, which serves as a camp experience for children to boost their self-esteem and build moral character.
The fundraiser raised more than $35,000 for the boys and girls ranch. Warren County Sheriff Brett Hightower and his staff organized the event.
Warren County Jailer Stephen Harmon attended the tribute to Gaines.
“Although this was a fundraiser for the ranch - a band, several distinguished speakers, and many other people touched by Peanuts and (wife) Marilyn over the last 40 years shared stories of his service,” Harmon posted on Facebook. “It truly was an amazing tribute to his career and love for people.
“I can’t say enough good things about Peanuts, who was more than just my boss, an elected official, the sheriff, a mentor, and a friend,” Harmon added. “He was also like a grandfather to me. Peanuts was, is, and will always be - one of a kind. I am so thankful for him taking a chance on me over 21 years ago. I can only hope to be as successful, distinguished, dedicated, and as influential as he has been as I continue my own journey as an elected official.”
According to the Bowling Green Daily News, during Gaines’ time in his office, his department grew from eight deputies and one dispatcher to 103 employees and 64 road deputies and court security officials.
Gaines was first elected sheriff in 1978, serving nine terms. Prior to that, he was a Warren County magistrate, interim jailer and a military policeman.
He was president of the Kentucky Sheriffs’ Association in 2010 and served that same role from 1981-83, 1988 and 1994. He was president of the National Sheriffs’ Association in 2000-01.
In 2010, Gaines was honored as National Sheriff of the Year.
Former Warren County Sheriff Jerry "Peanuts" Gaines with Shellie Hampton, who is KACo Director of Government Affairs.
Kentucky Sheriffs' Association Executive Director Jerry Wagner speaks at the event, which honored Peanuts Gaines and raised funds for the association boys and girls ranch.
