PULLMAN, Wash. — Hundreds of people, including loved ones and local law enforcement, gathered Friday at WSU to memorialize Whitman County Sheriff Brett Myers, who died last Tuesday of a rare neurological disease.
Myers was first elected sheriff in 2002 and had held the office for the past 24 years. He was running unopposed for re-election on this year’s ballot. However, he resigned abruptly two weeks ago because of his health.
Myers’ family members said the disease took his ability to speak in the last days of his life. They said his final words were to his wife, Darcell, telling her how beautiful she is.
Myers spent three decades in Whitman County law enforcement. As a patrol deputy and later as sheriff, he built a reputation as a leader who stood by the people he served. Members of law enforcement from across the region attended the service to show their support for Myers and his family.
His longtime friend and colleague, Chris Chapman, spoke about the impact Myers had on those around him. Chapman, who described Myers as his best friend, became emotional as he spoke. “Brett may not be with us in body, but he’s with us in spirit,” Chapman said. “His influence is in the people he loved, the people he led, the people he served, and the people he inspired.”
Chapman’s words reflected what many in the room said about Myers. “Sometimes he taught you… Sometimes he encouraged you… Sometimes he quietly stepped in when you were struggling,” Chapman said in an earlier remembrance.
Myers is survived by his wife of 34 years, Darcell, and their two daughters. Family members described him as a wonderful husband and father.
Darcell’s brother, Stephen Kessinger, described the night he met Myers. “He’s funny, he’s confident, he’s patient with Darcell’s four younger brothers and he’s fast enough at the table,” Kessinger said. “What none of us could’ve known that evening was how he would treat Darcell for the rest of his life.”
Myers’ sister, Tonja Janette, described her brother’s approach to life. “Brett lived life to the fullest, surrounded by those he loved, and the things he loved doing,” Janette said. “He did amazing things.”
Myers’ older brother, Gordon Myers, said the family wants people to carry his brother’s example forward. “Brett was a stellar husband, father and leader,” Gordon Myers said. “He might want us to mourn him today… maybe… probably not. What he would want us to do is live our lives with purpose and intent. Forge ahead doing good and make a difference where differences need to be made.”
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