'A SERVANT MIND AND A SERVANT HEART': Richmond County, state says goodbye to Clemmons

HAMLET — Much was said Tuesday about the love had by the late Sheriff James E. Clemmons Jr.: love for his family; love for his friends; love for those under his command; and his love for the community.

“Clem didn’t care about your economical status … he didn’t care about your color, he didn’t care about who you was, all he cared about was love,” said the Rev. Orrick McDougald during a memorial service held for Clemmons in a packed Cole Auditorium, with deputies from the Richmond County Sheriff’s Office, many sheriffs and other law enforcement officials from across the state, brothers from his Omega Psi Phi Fraternity and masonic lodge, and members of the community he served in attendance.

Clemmons’ casket was draped with a North Carolina flag in front of the stage, which was lined with flower arrangements and two large portraits — including one in uniform — of the much-respected lawman.

“Sheriff Clemmons, he loved us. Sheriff Clemmons, he led us,” said Pastor Mike Childers, who is also a deputy. “Now, Sheriff Clemmons has left us, but only in the flesh. His spirit will be with us always.”