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Tara Baugh, daughter-in-law, from Jim's funeral ceremony:
We can all look around here today and see all of the people that Jim has touched throughout his live. However, one little person is at home today, Papaw's girl.
To say that Jim was overjoyed the day Jerrod and I told him that he was to be a grandpa is an understatement. He had waited and prayed for so long and finally all those plans of helping raise his grandchild had come true.
On January 21st, 2002 one little angel was born into the Baugh family, Gayle Evelyn. I have been told the stories about how Jim reacted when Jerrod went into the waiting room at the hospital and said it was a girl. Then the shock and even a tear or two when Jerrod told his dad she was going to be named Gayle Evelyn, after Jim's parents.
When she came home it was a long time before he missed a day of seeing her. That continued after she was older and I would often worry about him if it had been 2 days that he hadn't come by.
Gayle sure loved his visits. He would pull into the driveway and turn on his police siren. Of course she knew that sound and her face would light up as she ran to the door saying Papaw! They spent hours playing together and when he left Gayle would stand at the window to wave and watch as he turned on the lights on the police car until he pulled away.
Every Friday night we would get together with friends and family to have dinner with Jim and Laura Lee. Last Friday night we were not able to have our Friday night dinner with Jim because it seems he had other dinner plans with someone up above.
I know he knows how important he was in all of our lives. Every time I think of him, my heart is filled with happiness and love. I am so fortunate to have been able to share in Jim's life. Jim, I am so proud to have been related to you. Having you as such a special friend, father-in-law, and Papaw. I have so many memories that I would not trade for anything. One is the day he showed up at the house with a small gift for Gayle, a trampoline. Mind you she was only one at the time. He was so excited to put her in the trampoline; it only takes up half the barn. He used to love to watch her play in it. Another memory is watching him teach her how to ride her wooden rocking horse he gave her with his badge and name engraved on the side. I know that even though he is not here physically watching her play, he will be watching her play every day from above.
Of course I think she'll miss those visits to his home the most. We'll miss wagon rides around the basement, swatting the "buggies" with the fly swatter, feeding the cats together and eating our Sunday lunch. He had even taught her how to say "cheese" because every Sunday he would take at least 1 whole roll of pictures of her, then he'd take them to the 1 hour lab at WalMart and then bring them over to our house later that night.
He sure loved those pictures. If you ever ran into him, he was quick to share the latest pictures of Gayle and sometimes even a story of something new they had done together.
I have talked to many people with whom he shared those stories and pictures. Most of them told me that they wished they were Jim Baugh's granddaughter or that if they could come back they would want to be his granddaughter in their second life.
Jim had cared for so many people over the years, but never asked for anything in return. That is not the type of person he was. He has taught so many people to be police officers, caring individuals, but most of all, he has taught Jerrod to be a wonderful husband and an outstanding father to Gayle. Thank you Jim for everything you did!
Jerrod, Gayle, and I will look back on our lives with you and realize how lucky we were. Because of you, we will look back on some of the happiest birthdays, holidays, family vacations, and trips that anyone can imagine. With the help of everyone around, Gayle will grow up knowing how much she was loved and cared about from you. All of these memories give us the strength to go on each day. These memories will soon replace all of the sorrow and sadness that we are all feeling right now. There have been many angels in my life and now I know I have one more looking down on me and one looking down on Papaw's girl. I love you Jim!

Stevi Boyles, niece, as read at Jim's Funeral:
Today is a sad day in Putnam County, for we are saying goodbye to an extraordinary individual, a man who spent everyday serving his family, friends, and community. Jim Baugh was a man with many talents, a strong character, great wisdom, and a great compassion for life.
It is evident that Jim touched many lives with his kind spirit just by looking at the number of people gathered here today. All of us have special memories of the ways Jim influenced and impacted our lives. It is for those reasons that I would like to read the following narrative that his wife, Lauralee Baugh submitted to Senator Connie Lawson nominating him for the "Sagamore of the Wabash" award.
The narrative is entitled; "Why Jim you may ask"
Persons who have interacted with Jim Baugh -either in a professional or personal way- would tell you he is an example of a person who believes in community service. He took advantage of all opportunities to help people through or around a life situation-educating all the way.
After graduating from Belle Union High School in 1961 he enlisted in the US Air Force, serving in the Vietnam War as a fireman on the B52 Crash Rescue group. When his tour of duty was completed, he knew he wanted to return to his home state of Indiana, and the county of Putnam. Although his air force training was in fire safety and prevention, he chose to serve his community as a Greencastle City Policeman. The county sheriff later asked him to transfer to the Putnam County Sheriff's Department, which he did and remained there for 32 years. In January 1975 to December 1983 he was honored to serve his county residents as their sheriff.
It seems at least weekly some person that he has influenced or helped over the years stops by our house or calls to share a minute or two. Many of these people are now adults who he helped through some of the tough stages of "growing up".
Not too much really gets to Jim-except maybe people spelling sheriff with two r's and marshal with two l's.
I would like to share some other thoughts about this true Hoosier servant:
Over the years he has been an adjunct staff instructor (guest-not full time) firearms instructor at the Indiana Law enforcement Academy. He has developed a reputation of being a tough instructor-expecting the students to follow safety rules and do their best-and yet a gentle teacher-often being assigned the least skilled police officers to bring up to qualification requirements. Every time we attend a police related event, meeting, or convention some officer comes up to us and with a smile on his or her face says, 'This is the guy that taught me the value of respecting my firearm.'
Ever since the early 70's parents and teens have turned to Jim for help by being their referee and/or peacemakers. More than once he "hung in" with the ones in conflict and guided them to an agreement solution that saved relationships. There were times he simply listened but often times he had to-as Jim would put it-"get in their faces" and force them to look at the REAL picture and the possible scares that could occur if a solution was not found. The ones involved often thanked me for sharing with them. I always said, 'Just be around for our sons and us when we face similar challenges-because we will. It is part of maturing as individuals and families.?'
Jim is a wonderful caring husband, father, uncle, brother, friend, and most of all, grandfather. Our marriage has been strengthened by what we have learned as he helped persons facing marriage problems and divorce through the situation. Our sons are adult, loving, caring men because he expected their best and gave totally of himself to their raising. His extended family members know Jim will always be the helper or listener they need whether it is taking his sister's car in for an oil change, spending the day at the race track to meet "important people", or helping them work through a tough decision. His friends know him as a true friend and as one who always will give from anything he has-even from his tin of pink mints he keeps on the back floorboard of his car.
Jim puts on a Santa suit for the county children when the Putnam County Fraternal Order of Police shares Christmas gifts and joy with them. Over the years nothing has been more exciting for the children and Jim than seeing/being Santa come to their homes in a police car. Of course, he was always chauffeured by a uniform policeman or two.
Jim again expresses his love for our youth each August when he helps with the "Shop with a Cop" program sponsored by the Putnam County FOP and Putnam County Mental Health Association. Depending on the amount of money available for the program, he and a young man take off with the shopping cart at the local Wal-mart and spend an hour or more filling the cart with bargains in school supplies and clothing. He takes great pride in often having the fullest cart. He also usually goes over the limit-"just by a few dollars" which he covers-to be sure the child has not only the new tennis shoes but also a pair of penny loafers. He hands the child a couple of shiny pennies and explains the value of just a penny and wearing one in your shoes so you are not ever broke.
These are just a portion of the "Why Jim's."
Many rewards wait for him in heaven-I want him to also have the recognition he deserves here with us.
As he retires from his police officer profession, it would bring much pleasure and pride to those of us whose lives Jim Baugh has touched to have him receive the "2003 Citizen of the Year" award.
Respectfully, Lauralee Baugh
Had Jim lived to retire in April, he most likely would have been presented the "Sagamore of the Wabash", the state's most prestigious citizen award.
This past Friday night angels met Jim upon his departure from this earthly life and carried him into glory. Heaven is a place of indescribable beauty and I know Jim immediately dwelled in the presence of God and the Lamb. Jim beheld God in all His glory face to face. God said, "Well done, good and faithful servant. Enter into the joy of your master." Jim received the highest rewards ever when he entered the kingdom of God.
I believe my Uncle Jim would want me to tell you that all roads for believers lead to heaven. At God's appointed time we all will be called home. On that great and glorious day may each of our footprints be found on the streets of gold. Everyone who knows Jesus Christ as their personal Lord and Savior will be reunited with Jim. I can hardly wait to hear his hearty laugh, telling a tall tale, and showing off his new collections in heaven.
Uncle Jim, you will always hold a special place in our hearts. I love you.

Lauralee Baugh - Letter to the Editor, Banner-Graphic:
On Friday, January 2nd I lost my best friend, my husband Jim Baugh. Somehow a month has passed since that day. I feel the need to share some of my thoughts with all the folks who have supported us and were touched by his life. Perhaps the best way for me to accomplish this is to comment on three words - comfort, hope, and kindness.
Comfort: I know that the Baugh family is not alone in this loss. We have received thousands of "words of comfort," reminding us that Jim was not just ours, but respected, loved, and now missed by more then we could have imagined. Contacts from half way around the world and from our next-door neighbors. Condolences from a lady who met Jim for the first time on December 31st to persons who know him all his life. So many have held me close as we cried, questioned, reflected and laughed about my life with Jimmy.
Hope: I know that God has a plan for us to be together again with all our loved ones who have passed on before us. One of the ways I have found the strength to take the next step is to remind myself of others I know who have also lost spouses. As one shared just today, "It may not seem possible today, but the loss will become more manageable one day at a time."
Kindness: So many people, many we did not even know before January 2nd, have given of their time, energy, and resources to ease our mourning and share in our honoring process. From our local emergency response personnel, dispatchers and police officers to the Indianapolis area police officers and hospital staff. From the many volunteers (and their families) with the Critical Incident Team and District Trustees of the Indiana Fraternal Order of Police and persons with the COPS (Concerns of Police Survivors) who coordinated Jim's memorial services to the persons who have shoveled and plowed our driveway. From all our church brothers and sisters who took on so many tasks to my 4-H kids who hug me and share that they can not understand why. From the many comments through the media and Jim's memorial web site (www.jimbaugh.com) to the persons standing silently in the cold and the signs at businesses along the procession to the cemetery. One person perhaps spoke it best, "It looked like a Norman Rockwell painting of Putnam County expressing its love." From a friend loaning me a tiny angel that she requested I carry in my pocket for as long as I need it to the hundreds of "We Care" cards, calls, flowers and food.
As I continue each day to write five things I am grateful for in my "IGF" journal, I thank God that there are wonderful folks here on earth doing their best to help my family and me through this life change. I hope to honor each of your many acts of kindness by being there for others who unfortunately experience similar happenings.
The hole in our family will always be with us, but the edges are buffered by the love given so willingly by each of you. I request that you hug your loved ones tightly more often and keep giving of yourselves to others who need your support.
Gratefully, Lauralee Baugh and Family

Marilou Perry Woods, sister-in-law:
I first met Jim when he and his parents moved to the Rockville area in the late 1950's. I was about 8 years old and Jim was probably 15. We rode the same school bus, on which he taught me how to shuffle cards and make them flutter back together. I thought that was the coolest thing and I thought he hung the moon for taking the time to teach me.
As fate would have it he married my sister when I was a Freshman in high school. He has always been like a brother to me. It seems he has always been in my life and I have always loved him. Through the years he has always been there when I had important events in my life. Graduating from high school then college, getting married, holding my babies, watching them graduate from high school, watching my daughter get married, coming to my grandson's first birthday party, Jim was always there. During tough times in my life like divorce and when my mom and dad passed away within nine days of each other, Jim was always there to lean on. Never did I ever imagine that he would not always be there. The void he left in my life and the lives of my children can not be filled here on this earth. But we have learned from Jim being in our lives that everyday needs to be spent living our lives to the fullest, loving our families, touching people who are put in our lives, truly caring about the other person, being there as he always was for whoever needed him.
Thanks Jim for everything and for always being there........I miss you!

Sgt. Mike Nichols, Indiana State Police:
I knew Captain Baugh from his time teaching at the Indiana Law Enforcement Academy. His knowledge he shared with the new basic students was unsurpassed by anyone. He taught basic students as well as new instructors. His legacy will continue through the thousands he taught over the years.
Jerrod, and the rest of the Baugh family, we all mourn with you. The State of Indiana has truly lost one of its favorite sons. Rest In Peace Jim.

Captain Jon Davis, PD Martinsville, IN:
I met and worked with Jim several years ago while I was in the training council. He was a very deciated officer and always was ready to assist in any way to the training. God Bless Jim and his family.. He will be missed.

Officer Jim Albin, Indianapolis Police Dept.:
Capt. Jim Baugh was a very close friend of my family. He has been a part of my life since the day I was born. His son and I became very good friends and eventually I was lucky enough to be related to Capt. Baugh by marriage. I was then blessed with the opportunity to complete my college internship with him as my mentor. He has taught me everything I know about law enforcement. His death was a great loss to us all.
Jim, I make this pledge to you. Everything you taught me, I will pass on to new officers throughout my career. This way I can make sure your legacy and memory will live forever. You will always be in my heart and thoughts. You were a wonderful officer and friend. I will always remember the great times and laughs we had together. Several of my supervisors have asked if I wanted to take some time off to grieve. That is not what you would want me to do. Im going to work tomorrow and I will make you proud. I know that you will be riding right there next to me. I will miss you but heaven must have needed a hero. There is nobody better to take that run. We will take care of your family and we will all see you again. Rest easy now, you're 10-42.

Chief Deputy Tim Schaffer, Wells County Sheriffs Dept. In.:
Working with Jim at the Indiana Law Enforcement Academy with firearms has always been enjoyable. Jim was a true professional and has taught countless numbers of officers troughout the state of Indiana over the years. This is such a terrible loss for his family, department, friends, and the entire state. Rest in peace, Jim.

Trooper Christopher Harcourt, Indiana State Police:
The short time I have worked with Captain Jim Baugh, he has left me with a lifetime of memories. We would make "details" a couple times a week in Cloverdale and since we both worked the same shift and county we often counted on each other for back up on calls. I admired Jim for his dedication in law enforcement, and he always had a smile on his face. Jim knew everyone in Putnam County and I could always count on him for direction and directions... From his "shocking" pens to telling me how to shoot a possible "practice, practice, practice" Jim you will be missed, my heart goes out to you and your family. Rest in peace my friend.

Deputy Jason Williams, Bartholomew County Sheriff's Office:
I had the pleasure of knowing Jim and his son Jerrod. Both were firearms instructors for my class while I was at the ILEA in 2000. I felt that Jim was an excellent instructor, as well as a model officer. Jim always had funny stories to tell, as well as a serious side. Jim will be greatly missed by all, and my prayers along with I'm sure many others will be going out to the family and close friends of our fallen brother. Rest in peace Jim!

Town Marshal Chuck Jones, Staunton, Indiana:
I've known Jim for many years. I met him when I was a deputy with the Clay County Sheriff's Dept in 1981. Jim and I were on the Indiana Law Enforcement Pistol team together and he was always willing to go the extra mile to train other officers without regard to distance or expense. Jim was my last firearms instructer in Septemeber 2003. I will miss him alot, he was pro law all the way, but had a great sence of humor as well. Jim also help me out when I was Sheriif with fireams training. Rest in peace brother.

A Deputy:
Jim was the Putnam County Sheriff's Dept. As another person already said, he knew everyone in the county. He was a true professional. Putnam County and the state lost someone who will not be replaced.

MIKE HOWELL, POLICE OFFICER, DANVILLE POLICE DEPARTMENT:
TO MY FRIEND "JIM": FOR MANY YEARS YOU AND I ANSWERED MANY CALLS, FOUGHT MANY BATTLES, AND COVERED EACH OTHERS BACK. WHEN WE BOTH HAD CANCER, WE TALKED EACH OTHER THROUGH IT. WHEN THEY TOOK MY RIGHT SHOULDER AND I ASKED YOU IF I SHOULD RETIRE AND GO ON DISABILITY. YOU SAID, WHAT? YOUR LEFT STILL WORKS, "DOSN'T IT"? YOU THEN TOOK ME TO THE SIDE AND TAUGHT ME HOW TO SHOOT LEFT HANDED AND I'M STILL ON THE JOB. GOD HAS CALLED YOU FOR A NEW ASSIGNMENT. REPORT TO ST. MICHAEL. HE WILL BE WAITING FOR YOU, HOLDING A CUP OF HOT TEA, LIGHTLY SWEETENED. YOUR FRIEND: MIKE

Tina Albin, family:
Capt. Baugh was truly a great man. I was also very fortunate to be a member or his family by marriage. As a wife of a police officer I send my love and support to his family. He also treated my two children as his own. My oldest son called him "Uncle Jim". It is obvisous that God did not want Jim to retire so he could have the BEST to serve and protect in Heaven. God Bless and we love all of you very much.

Deputy Dennis Hamer, Retired, Marion County Sheriff Dept.:
I used to compete with Jim in pistol matches with the Indiana Police Firearms Training Association for several years. It was always a pleasure to see him at matches where he gave us something to work towards. He will be missed.

Deputy Director Rusty Goodpaster, Indiana Law Enforcement Academy:
What I will miss the most about Jim are the smiles he always created when he was around. He was a very dedicated and loyal trainer but more importantly a true friend to the ILEA family. Rest in Peace my friend.

TOM UNDERWOOD, Ind. State Police & Hendricks County Sheriff:
I worked with Jim Baugh while a State Trooper and while I was Sheriff of Hendricks County. Jim was always consistent, a good friend a good police officer and a kind and loving father and grandfather. I shall miss his friendly smile and his friendship. God has surely blessed blessed those of us who knew him. I Pray that God will strengthen his family for the days to come.

Anonymous:
I want to send my deepest sympathy to the Jim Baugh family. I did not know him that well but I cut hair for years at Putnam County Jail and spoke with him when he would pass through. He would always cut up and tell me to give the inmate a reverse mo-hawk like his and he called it a hawk-mo. I will never forget that or him either. May God Bless you all.

Kathy Long, Indiana Law Enforcement Academy:
It's hard to remember Jim without seeing his big grin. He's been coming to the ILEA for many years and I never remember him without that grin. He loved his family and burst with pride anytime the subject of his granddaughter came up. He has done alot for the Academy, and, on a personal level was a good friend to everybody. He will be missed alot!

Jody Sanders, Cloverdale Middle School Teacher:
When we first moved to Cloverdale, I was starting the 7th grade. We attended Greencastle Christian Church at that time. That's where I met Jim and his family. I didn't know them very well, but they were one of those families you just expected to see there every Sunday. Know what I mean? Anyway, I think the thing that's impressed me most throughout the years is I have NEVER heard of anything bad about Jim. Most people usually get something bad said about them at some point in their life, and I can't remember a single time I ever heard anything bad about Jim. It's always been good.

Lt. Bruce Baker, Indiana Law Enforcement Academy Staff:
Working at the Academy for 15 yrs, I met Jim and he was a great man. I knew that from day one. Capt. Mercer told Jim and I, "To be good," a reporter was coming out to the range. He took toilet paper, cleaning his sunglasses and started walking out of the bathroom. I was holding the roll of toilet paper. As he walked out, I let it roll out. Capt. Mercer is still mad at us for that one...

David & Teresa Masten:
Jim and Lauralee were always the last to leave political functions, always doing the clean-up duties. Jim has also been a blessing and a friend to our daughter, Stephanie.

Marty Watts:
Jim was a very special person. Max, Shaun and I will always remember his kindness and goodwill, the person that he was. Thank you for letting all of us here in Putnam County share his life. God Bless.

Bob & Kathy Hacker:
Jim was loyal to his high school graduating class and loved the class reunions we had. Thankfully, it worked out that we were able to have a reunion this past summer and we're so glad that that happened.

Jackie Baumann:
My memories of Jim Baugh are of a true gentleman?someone who loved life and having a good time. I remember New Year's Eve parties in the Baugh home and seeing Jim demonstrate his chicken story. But most of all, I remember a man who loved his family and who loved a beautiful little granddaughter as much as a child could be loved. Jim will be missed in many ways, by many people, but to me the loss that I think of most is the loss of a World Class Grandpa.

Debby and Troy Scott:
Jim was someone who always made you feel good. Hea nd his wife always had a smile for you even if they didn't know you that well. Even during hard times of their own, with a relative in the hospital, Jim made time to check on us and say hi to our very sick little boy. Jim always asked about our kids and we always appreciated that. He will be missed by all.

Laura & Brandon Hiesh:
Our favorite memories of Jim are his many words of cheer during tough times. His times as Santa Claus...it brightened Brandon's Christmas. Also, their many talks over NASCAR. Brandon already said those were his favorite NASCAR collectibles.

Chuck Shroeder:

During one of our poker games. Jim got a call to pick up a prisoner from Brazil. I rode with him. On US40, we were clipping along pretty good when all of a sudden Jim slams on the brakes. I asked, "What?s wrong?" He said, "Deer crossing." Then he resumed his speed. That was Jim. Great guy. I'll miss him.

Sara Lane:

Jim had a special gift of always making a person feel 'special.' If Jim met you once, he knew you always. He had that 'good ol boy' demeanor which allowed him to get along with anyone he met. Someone down on their luck never felt looked down upon. Jim was also pretty darn smart. He could 'run' with the best of them.

Jim knew how to handle a situation with grace and get the job done with the least amount of trouble to himself or others. He knew his job and knew he had the ability to do it so he didn't have to 'show' or 'prove' just how tough he was. I don't think I ever spoke to Jim that he didn't speak and flash that grin. Truly a man who earned the respect of many.

May God bless you and your family as Jim's life has blessed this county.

Deb Rumley:

Spring of 2003. Jim stopped by the house one afternoon, while Rum was out in the side yard throwing the baseball with Michael before a Babe Ruth game. Jim, in full uniform, gun belt and all, decided to show Michael how to throw Jim's curveball. Michael and his friends were amazed that Jim still had it in him. He always had a smile on his face and a story to tell.

Raymond McCloud:

I remember when Jim and I played basketball against each other, as Roachdale Optimist vs. Putnam Co. Sheriff's Dept, for a benefit for Dave Webber. I was guarding Jim and I tripped him 3 or 4 times. After halftime, Jim came out with his pistol strapped on and told me to try and trip him again. Also, helping Jim put the seat on the golf cart at the county fair last year was an interesting experience.

Tim Perkins:

Memories: Our Atlantic City trip (I think I still owe him $20) with Jim and other Indiana State Troopers. Late night patrol visits, chasing speeding semis down I-70 without headlights on. Stopping underage drinkers and making them dump their alcohol and send them home to their parents.

Officer Jill Musgrave, DePauw PD:

Jim's #1 rule for the women police officers at 'his' range is to put the toilet seat back UP after using it. He said he's not allowed to leave it up at home.

Erin Mahoney:

I remember when I was in Horse & Pony and we were getting ready to show at the county fair. Mom had brought one of my horses in and was preparing to move the trailer. She backed it across the road, into the field with the restrooms and hit the only car in that huge area. And, of course, it was the Sheriff's car. To this day she still says how nice Jim was about it. Now, my dad wasn't as happy, and she was really embarrased.

Dave & Marsha Costin:

Jim always managed to mix play with work (in a constructive way). It always made a difficult job easier. My favorite story is Holloween at the jail. When the trick or treaters ran away screaming from the escaping dummy thrown from the roof by Jason & Jerrod. Jim came in suddenly to see what the excitement was about only to leave smiling when he learned what was going on. What I remember was the sudden start of my heart when I saw the body fall past the window... My deepest sympathies on the loss of such a great person.

Lt. James Sheperd, Indianapolis PD:

I have known Jim for about 15 yrs. We regularly shot against each other in the state pistol matches. He was one of the most selfless men I knew. He displayed a zest for life and had no overblown ego that I ever saw. He constantly worked to address the training needs of officers everywhere. I will miss my friend and brother.

Andre D Carson:

I remember taking the firearms portion during my time at the police academy and Capt. Baugh gave me some great advice. He told me that one sure way of qualifying was to shoot one big hole into the target. He looked at me, smiled, winked and I began shooting. I passed the qualification thanks to his advice.

Supt. Penny L. Davis ISEP:

It was always such a pleasure to see Jim during our range times. His stories and laugh will forever remain with me. He and Jerrod seemed more like 'best' friends than father and son. What a great family.

Mike Shouse, Troop 91:

Working on the NRA grant and getting the guns for the kids and Boy Scouts with Jim. He will be missed.

Stacey Seibold Alldredge:

I remember when Mr & Mrs Baugh would take all of us (me, Jerrod, Travis, Susan) back to Ball State. We would ride in the police cruiser and play with the radar gun, scaring people into driving slow! It was great fun for all of us.

Darrel R. Buntern:

Jim pulled me over when I was 12 years old. He came to the window and said, "Can I see your license." I said no. He just laughed. I was following my father in a tractor. Needless to say, you can't do things like that any more.

The Gottschalks:

Memories: The impact that little pink mints make on little girls' minds. A horse called 'Nosey' had Jim wrapped around his hoof. A visit to Methodist Hospital to get a sick little girl to eat for the first time. Baugh-Baugh!

Reelsville Boy Scout Troop #91:

We really enjoyed Mr Baugh's Firearm Instruction Classes. He helped teach our troops proper firearm safety and operation. Our troop was able to go to the Sheriff's Range and shoot under the watchful eye of Capt. Baugh. His colorful stories were both entertaining and enlightening. His wisdom and wit were appreciated by the entire troop. He was a wonderful man and will be truly missed.

Adam Wahl:

Jim instructed me on the proper way to fire a handgun. Jim and I started out two different times to get me certified with a handgun. Each time we would be in route to the range south of Greencastle and he would be called on a run. I went with him to Bainbridge on a call and it was a domestic problem and he just simply told them, "That's no way for a family to act." He talked to the husband for a while, then we left. No harsh words were even said.

Dave Weisman:

My two favorite memories of Jim are: Saturday/Sundays at the old Putnam Co. Jail with Steve & the two boys; TV, popcorn, jail food for dinner and just 'Family time.' I'm not even sure Jason & Jerrod remember us spending those quiet/fun times together! And, Jim being there in South Bend when I was Raised to the Degree of Master Mason. It was such an honor to have him there!

Lt. Randy Davis, ILEA Retired:

While competing in the 2002 State FOP Pistol Match, which was held at the Putnam Co. SD Range, I had fired on the 'paper' stage and went to the plate rack to shoot. Jim was the range officer and after explaining the protocol of fire, I started firing. I heard the bullets hitting, but they were not falling. After firing twice at the first 3 plates (total of 6 rounds) I glanced at the reset rope and it was off of the ground and being held by Jim. He had that devilish grin on his face and started laughing. He said, "Do you know how long I've wanted to do something like this to you?" and laughed louder, with tears welling up in his eyes. I said, "Well...If you think you've got that out of your system, maybe now I can shoot and the plates will actually go down when I hit them."

Jeremy Mitchell, nephew:

Uncle Jim always knew how to get in places by 'badging' his way through security. He was always VIP no matter if he belonged there or not. I will never forget when he and I 'badged' our way into the garage area at the Brickyard 400. We then made our way through security to the pit area. I was following him and he was pointing towards the stands and he kept saying, "Look at my finger, don't look at anybody." We made it through the pits and onto the track undetected by security. I will also never forget the look on Uncle Jim's face when he saw how amazed I was at how fast the cars were. I will never forget that day. Uncle Jim was like a father to me.

Courtney Sweet (age 8):

One day my family and I went to see an Indianapolis Indians baseball game. Guess who we bumped in to! Old Mr Uncle Jim. That is where he got me the San Diego Chicken. He also stood in line with me to get my chicken signed. Also, one time he tried to give me a speeding ticket for riding my bike too fast. He also tried to do it when I was in my motorized Jeep.

Jada Buchanan (neighbor):

First, when Mr. Baugh told me to never throw rocks. When he let me come over and see the new kittens. When Mr. Baugh let me ride his horse, Sandale. That was so much fun. When Mr. Baugh let me drive my Grandma Buchanan's car around his pasture. I will miss knowing I always feel safe when I was home alone.

Denise Oxford:

I know Jim was a great person and will be missed by all. My grandfather thought a lot of him. Not many people would have given a 67 year old retired principal a job.

Mrs. (Tara) Baugh's Kindergarten classes:

We really liked having Mr. Baugh visit our class in November. He read us a book because he is a good reader. He also let us try on his handcuffs. We got to get inside his police car and see the lights. He even gave us a real badge before he left. Mr. Baugh was cool and a pretty nice guy. We miss him.

Debby Lambert:

Jim was such a special man. He helped me last year when my little dog was stolen. When I found out where the dog was I called the Sheriff's office and Jim is the one who helped me get the little guy back. I think he enjoyed doing it too! I think he kind of put the fear of God into the kid who took him. Your family has been in my prayers ever since I heard about the accident.

Mary Jane Toney:

Jim gave me a hard time because I baked a chocolate cake with icing for the prisoners in a pan that was too small, which made the cake too tall. So when they gave the trays to the inmates they had to lick the icing off the bars.

Once when LauraLee was getting over surgery, I complained about the jail only having a 2 slice toaster. So Jim went to town and bought a 4 slice toaster so the cook wouldn't leave until LauraLee got back. He loved her and missed her very much.

Herschel and Anna Robbins:

When our son Brian was very young and wanted to spend the weekend at the jail, we couldn't understand why he would want to go there. That was before we knew Jim of course. Brain eventually spent many weekends with his second family. We loved and respected Jim very much. He was always the "Sheriff Baugh" to us.

Brent Robinson:

One time there was a big bust at a local bar for underage drinking and Jim was once again on the scene and asking what was going on. We talked a little bit and then he asked me to raise my right hand. I did and he made me a deputy once again. Jim then said if anyone comes up behind him, knock them out. I said, "With pleasure, anything for you Jim."

Jennifer Edwards, dispatcher #14:

Jim came into dispatch and we were talking about tattoos and body piercings and he told us he had a tattoo of an eagle on his belly button. We told him that we didn?t believe him. So he held up his shirt, squeezed his stomach so his belly button wrinkled up, and told us it was the eagles butt! We laughed so hard that we couldn't radio until we were all done.

My husband, 183, absolutely adored Jim and knew that he was "the best" in the field. After becoming a dispatcher, I began to feel the same. Jim went above and beyond the call of duty and all that have learned from him are truly blessed.

Kevin Akers, Indiana State Excise Police:

I'll always remember going to various shooting matches with Jim, along with his son Jerrod and several other folks who enjoyed shooting. There was never a dull moment when you spent time with Jim Baugh!

Lisa Meyer Trigg, Banner Graphic Newspaper:

My favorite memory of Jim was getting into the fire departments aerial truck two years ago to take photos of the "100" in the outdoor arena at the fairgrounds. Jim told me he didn't like heights and he kept asking me if I was okay with being up so high. He was telling stories and jokes, maybe to keep his mind off the jerky ride. He was always very polite and friendly with me when I asked questions for the newspaper. A true professional.

Russell and Vicki Evans:

Jim was a very special person in our lives. He took our wedding pictures on September 12, 1970. He became a good friend then. He will be missed by many! Our thoughts and prayers are with his family.

Terri Sutherlin McKee:

I will always remember riding to the girls basketball sectional in the front seat of Jim's patrol car with the lights on.

Howard Senters:

The first memory to come to mind was the time he came by and picked up myself, Woody and Stacy and took us to the races at IRP. Traffic was backed up from Clermont all the way to Dandy Trail. Jim just turned on the lights, pulled into the left lane and took us in the back gate at IRP. We all sat in the back seat with our hands behind our backs to make sure it looked like he had us in custody. I have many fond memories of Jim and I will really miss him. My thoughts and prayers are with his family.

Eddie Hammond:

I remember Jim yelling from 100 yards away to get my attention as well as his smile and him looking over the top of his glasses at me. He never saw me without stopping to talk and find out about my family. He made everyone around him feel good about themselves. He loved what he did for a living and all could tell that. He was a true gentleman and the BEST law enforcement officer I ever knew. He was family but most of all he was a friend. I will miss him greatly.

Cindy Brewer Atkins, friend:

My first memory of Jim was when I was walking to and from Jones Elementary to get to my dad?s office for lunch. Jim was always waiting for me at the window of the jail and would ask me what I was doing out of school.

Maurice McKee, friend:

Jim and I went Christmas shopping for a few years. One time I was buying a sewing machine and I didn't have any identification. Jim showed the lady his badge and she accepted it. As we left the store, I told Jim he just vouched for a bad check. He said he knew where I lived.

Bryce Burns, neighbor:

When I was younger, Jim had a barn that looked exactly like Mr. Ingall's barn from Little House On The Prairie. So when I noticed it I started calling Jim Mr. Ingalls. I was the only one he would let call him that. I love you Mr. Ingalls.

Shawn Little, Dispatcher:

My favorite Jim story... Christams 1998 Jim came to my house dressed as santa for the FOP drive wearing his gun belt. It took me months to try to explain to the kids that we just lived in a bad part of town and Santa had to fight his way in to us with the toys. I will miss his sense of humor so much. The world is worse off without him taking care of us.

Malachi Taylor, 911 dispatcher on Jim?s shift:

Jim would come into dispatch to "debrief" us. You could tell him anything. I always told him I plan to be reincarnated as his grandchild because he would spoil me. He once was telling a tattoo joke about a naked lady on his thumb. He said Lauralee wouldn't approve so he got one on his belly button. He came around and lifted up his shirt and showed me his eagle butt. I didn't know which one was funnier, Jim showing me his belly button or that I found out he wore Joe Boxers due to the band sticking out of his uniform pants.

Keith Brackney:

I know Jim was devoted to his career, but I remember the day he told me about his new grandchild. He was beaming with pride. It's always been obvious how important his family was to him. A part of him will live on in all of his family and the contributions he made to giving us all a safer, better place to live will not be forgotten. Our prayers are with his family.

Hannah Aker, Putnam County 4H:

When I found out that Jim was going to come on the trip to Putnam County Florida, I knew there would never be a boring moment. Jim proved me right when he decided he was going to call a cow. He had them convinced that he was the best cow caller in the United States. So, Mrs. Lynne pulled off the road by a pasture and Jim got out of the van and called the cows. When he had been standing there for about five minutes and no cows came, he returned to the van and claimed something in the food the cows had eaten had made them immune to his call.

Tom Underwood:

Jim never let me forget giving him a speeding ticket when I was an Indiana State Trooper.

Elise Stogdill:

I remember all Jim?s flea tricks he liked to do. I remember Ralph was always in his wallet or pocket. I bet Ralph is still with him, cuddled up next to Jim. I remember riding in his Sheriff's car. I remember card tricks, warm hugs and warm smiles. I loved Jim Baugh and even though he?s gone, I still love him. We miss you.

Roger and Amber Webb:

When I was a former dispatcher Jim would come and he always had a smile on his face that would automatically put a smile on your face. It will never be forgotten.

James Stogdill:

I remember when Jim would let us get in his patrol car and let me talk on his loud speaker. We would scold smokers and turn on the siren. Jim brought some elk jerky to the shop one time and that was probably some of the best jerky I've ever had.

Corky Stogdill:

My memories of Jim are a collection of fun times...something Jim would smirk about or a story he would tell. We had fun making him laugh. My memories include seeing his caring side. At Jason's wedding, when I had to pull the car over quickly in traffic because my youngest was chocking he came back to look for me to make sure everything was all right. I always appreciated how he included Steve and I as family in several activities. Jim was someone you could always depend on to be there when you needed him.

Jessica Stogdill:

I remember his pet circus flea in his pocket named George...Sitting in his police car listening to the siren...Going to a family get-together and him reminding me not to trip on the stakes in the ground that were holding up the tend...Going to Jason's wedding...His license plate collection...The piece of silver he and Jason designed.

Dorothy Williams:

Back when he was Sheriff, I worked in the Auditor's office and did payroll. Jim would bring his in and sometimes it wasn't exactly the way it should be. I always told him not to worry about it. I could tell clerking wasn't his thing, being a good law officer was. When I read the article Eric Bernsee wrote about riding with Jim, where he didn't always give a ticket to someone he pulled over, I knew he was always like that. He had a lot of compassion for his fellow man. Jim had an infectious smile, he seemed like a happy man and you could tell he was proud to be in a position to protect his county, his loved ones and those he knew as well as those he didn't.

Don and Mary Smith:

I remember Jim's visits to my home for sweet corn. I also remember him paging me at the fair as Reverend Smith for all to hear. He was to all, a friend and a man who loved his country and fellow man.

Glenda Mercer, ILEA:

Over the years there are a lot of favorite stories I could tell. Every time he came to the academy he did something that I would think "I need to write that down." He was always a pleasure to be around. I could feel bad and Jim could make me forget and laugh. He was always doing silly things and would love it when everyone would laugh at it. But, then he would try to be innocent. One time I told everyone to be on their best behavior because the news media was on their way to the outdoor range. The next thing I knew everyone was looking toward the shotgun range and laughing. I looked out the tower window and Jim was walking out of the mens room with toilet paper stuck in his pants and dragging it from the restroom like a streamer. I opened the window and yelled at him and he laughed and tried to act like he didn't know what happened.

Perry Wainman:

After a typical Jaycee meeting in the basement of the Greencastle Savings and Loan, about 6-8 of us went to Moore's bar to unwind and play a little pool. After awhile Jim began to get happy at the pool table. He said "watch this" and he flipped his cigarette into the air, kicked it with his foot back into the air and it landed in the ash tray. He said, "Never in a million years could I do that again." We all laughed and he spent the next hour trying to do it again. It's the little impromptu things that made Jim so funny and fun to be with.

Judith Smedley Allee, Belle Union HS Class of 1961:

During the late 50s and early 60s it was tradition for the entire class of 19 to come to my house for a party. The girls always spent the night and the boys always went skinny dipping in Eel River behind the house. As the girls will do, we could not resist taking their clothes and leaving them stranded for a while.

Jim always enjoyed the pranks we played on one another.

Lt. Lance M. Burris, Indiana Law Enforcement Academy:

In this world there are heros and role models....Jim was both.

Jim was one of the finest police officers and gentleman I had the honor of knowing. He was from the old school of doing the right thing at the right time for the right reason.
My Lament

By Lance M. Burris

(written with Jim in mind)

Dear God,

Do not allow my words to take leave

By the wayside.

Hear these words from my mouth.

For you are the keeper of all prayers,

For on bended knees I come to you,

Under the weight of my anger.

In my anger I seek to take refuse,

In your understanding and guidance.

Forgive me if, in my anger, I offend your ears,

But my heart rejects those who live the life of corruption and sin,

Free to walk the path of their chosen way of life.

For they, without conscience in their steadfast,

Enjoy the benefits of the earth You created.

While those, righteous and God fearing souls,

Are taken away without a seeming reason,

From family and loved ones.

Is it fair to me to lose a friend, a wife a husband,

A child a father, an aunt, an uncle or a cousin?

Is it wrong to ask the mightiest of the mighty,

To rectify a wrong? To correct what is not right?

My prayer is that You intervene and show favor,

To those who have accepted and obey your commandments.

And as for the evil and wicked ones,

That You strike them down in living judgment,

So they do not benefit from their unrighteous acts,

Committed in the name of the evil one.

For it was Your Son who taught us to pray,

?Thou shall be done on earth and it is in heaven.?

By the grace of God,

I come to you in prayer,

And know that you hear my every lament.

That not only do you hear my times of joy,

But also my words of despair, pain, sorrow and concerns.

I know that in Your name my prayers will be answered.

For You are ever-present, ever-being and ever-doing.

In Your name, the name Lord God who has reigned forever.

The name that strikes fear in the hearts of sinners,

Who sent Moses to free Your people from the hands of evil wrath,

Who sent miracles to save the chosen people,

I beseech You to stretch-out Your protective hands,

And wrap Your mighty arms around Your people of today,

And keep them from harms way.

For it is these people who will inherit the earth,

And the right to live forever,

In Your Kingdom of Heaven.

Chris Jordan, AKA "TB":

Jim, Hello! Somewhere you are in heaven watching over me and still giving me grief about what I do to this day. I will always love you and I will miss you very much. I rode with Jim in his car on several occassions and we talked about several things. We talked about family, friends, and whatever else was going on in our lives. Jim was like a second father to me and I will miss him forever. A little part of me died the night I found out Jim was gone. Jim I will never be able to forget you. God Bless my friend and my second father.

Bill and Lynn Hoyle:

I did not get to spend as much time with Jim as I would have liked, but the time we spent shooting was memorable. Any time we had with Jim was special because he was so outstanding, witty, caring, and always had a big smile on his face. There is no way anyone could have a doubt that he would have helped anyone who needed it, even if the cost came from his own pocket. Jim was a man like my Father, no one could know either of them and look upon them with the utmost respect.

My Father has been gone for thirty years now and he left a pair of shoes so large to fill and now we have lost another wonderful man who left a large pair of shoes to fill also. Not a day goes by that I do not grieve for my Father and now I am sure that he and Jim are standing shoulder to shoulder in Heaven. I choke up yet today thinking about either of them. I pray daily for there to be men with half the qualities of these men.

Those of us who are left here on earth and many others who were not blessed to have known Jim and to have called him a friend or even an acquaintance have lost more than we realize yet. Jim was a loving man who had his priorities in order. He was a loving and devoted husband, father, grandfather and a true and loyal friend to all who knew him.

He loved his family, his profession, his community, his Lord and his Church.

Memories keep the ones you love close to you in spirit and thought and always in your hearts today and forever. When a child loses his parents, he is called an orphan, when a spouse loses his or her partner, they are called widow or widower, when we lose a friend such as Jim Baugh, we know that everything that happens is part of God's eternal plan and our time we had with Jim was a true blessing from God. Memories keep those we love close to us forever although words seem to say so little, I hope they help in some small way to ease the sense of loss that many of us are experiencing today.

Hold fast to your memories, to all of the cherished moments of the past, to the blessings and the laughter , the joys and the celebrations, the sorrow and the tears. They all add up to a treasure of fond yesterdays that you all shared and spent together, and they keep the one you love close to you in spirit and thought. The special moments and memories in you life will never change, they will always be in your hearts today and forevermore.

Bill and I feel that we too are blessed to have known Jim and his wonderful family and will always cherish his memory.

Tammy Seed:

I would have to say the most memorable thing I could think of is under no circumstance should you have left a camera laying around for Jim to find. IF YOU DID...be prepared for when you developed that roll of film you would find pictures of Jim, ones of course that he took of himself without you knowing. I could always tell when Jim was at an occasion that I went to because I always got pictures like these.

I asked Jacob what he remembers about Jim and he said that he remembered that Jim took him on his first four wheeler ride at Jim's house. They went across the street and Jim had a really big flash light and they were shining it on deer. Hmmm...Kind of interesting.

Jim will always hold a dear place in my heart!

Phil Junker:

Meandering - We Never Know (newspaper article)

You never know what tomorrow will bring; maybe not even tonight.

A tragic reminder brought the unfortunate fact to the forefront last Friday night. A call from our daughter brought news that one of our best friends had been in a terrible accident.

Capt. Jim Baugh, a deputy sheriff had just left a routine possible vandalism call run, and was headed to the scene of a traffic accident. Rounding a downhill curve, his patrol car went out of control on rain-slick highway, flipped and crashed into a stream. He wasn't removed from the car for about 15 minutes. It wasn't quick enough to save the veteran law officer's life.

Jim had more than 30 years in law enforcement. He was a conscientious deputy, who also had been a sheriff. While he always upheld the law and did his job, he also treated all people with a great deal of respect. There were many youngsters who were recipients of Jim's fatherly advice, and may have headed home embarrassed instead of to jail.

Baugh was scheduled to retire in April, and he and his wife, Laura Lee had happy plans for retirement.

Besides being an outstanding officer, he was active in youth organizations and his church. He loved his small farm, and the horses he and Laura Lee raised. Also for many years, he was a firearms instructor at the Indiana Law Enforcement Academy.

When our kids were in high school, so were the two Baugh boys. After football or basketball games the Baughs and Junkers, plus two or three other couples would gather in one of our homes for chili. We also always got together at New Years and other special occasions.

In recent years, since my wife, Phyllis and I moved south, we hadn¹t seen each other as often, but stayed in touch. Laura Lee always called Phyllis on her birthday. The two had been classmates and grew up on farms near each other.

We had just received the Baugh¹s Christmas card and annual family newsletter. It outlined Jim¹s retirement plans.

Even though we hadn't been together as much in recent years, the news hit us with a thud. I was on a business trip when Phyllis called me a midnight at the motel where I was staying. She was shaken and in tears. Neither of us slept much Friday night.

Unfortunately, similar tragedies take place every day.

Sept. 11, 2001, people climbed aboard airplanes, and others headed off to work at the World Trade Centers. The tragedies that followed later that day could not have been envisioned.

People may be in good health. They may be young. But we never know what tomorrow, or even this evening will bring.

Jim's death is a reminder or our mortality. We should never leave home without giving our loved ones a hug. We should never put off telling someone we love them or care about them. We shouldn't put off those important things.

And while planning for our futures is important, it's important that we live each day to the fullest. And as my wife says, with special care and thankfulness.

As the ending of a poem of an anonymous poem that made the rounds after Sept. 11 said:
So hold your loved one close today,
and whisper in their ear.
Tell Them how much you love them,
and that you'll always hold them dear
Take time to say "I'm Sorry,"
"Please forgive me," "Thank you." or "It's okay."
And if tomorrow never comes,
you'll have no regrets about today.

Steve Anderson:

I only met Jim during firearms training. It was my pleasure having had the opportunity to meet and enjoy this humorous, yet serious man. I remember a shoot at the West Lafayette range where Jim showed what a great marksman he was. The family will have wonderful memories to reflect back on during the short time he was a husband, father and best friend. Jim will always remain in your life and be in your heart.

Charles McCullough:

I met Jim on the highway, he let me go. Then I called for help one day about my son and he set down and talked with him for a long time. He set there speaking tearfully to my son. You know what, my son really listened and I thank God every day since. To me there will never be another one like him.

Rex and Judy Parker:

This just happened this Fall 2003. Jim, Jerrod and Gayle were at the Conservation Club sighting in a gun. They got hung up and had to come over to our home to get help. Rex took the 4-wheel drive truck over and pulled them out. Rex told Jim "Now you owe me, and I don't mean money." Jim said, "I was afraid that would happen." Rex said, "I always want to be one up on you Jim." He was a wonderful friend to us and to all.

Steven Westell:

I'll never forget one night at Wendy's, while having dinner with my wife and two kids, Jim got my daughter Makayla to come over and talk to him. While there he told Makayla to go get my autograph. Of course, Jim supplied the pen (his shocker pen) and a piece of paper. The rest is history. I can't begin to tell you how much I respected Jim and will never forget him.

Joanne and Tony Cole:

Our favorite story of Jim is when he helped our nephew, David Zehner, get his scouting badge for rifles. David was so impressed with Jim and his knowledge of firearms and that he cared so much for a boy he didn't know. He still talks about Jim's mongoose. Jim was one of the first people we meet in Greencastle. As we were walking our land after the purchase, he came over to see what we were doing. After determining that we weren't up to trouble, he immediately invited us to a wiener roast at his house. That leads to the story of the hot dog that Jim threw in the air and hit Tony on the head with!

Randy Ashton:

I loved to listen to Jim talk about his Corvette.

Darlene and Dale McGaughey:

Our son Brent was becoming interested in photography and I accompanied him to a photography seminar Jim gave to the 4-Hers at the fairgrounds. Brent had, at that time, a simple APS and 35mm. After the class, all he could talk of was using an SLR as Jim had demonstrated. We dug ours out of the back of the closet and took many rolls of film. He was excited about the results. On of his pictures won reserve champion in the intermediate level at the fair. Thanks for the great advice and encouragement Jim!

Stanley Clover:
My brother, a friend and I would walk past the Baugh's home on our way to Deer Creek about twice a day in the summertime to swim. Six year old Jim Baugh was out on the lawn playing so we stopped in to see what was going on. Jim was wearing a cowboy hat and he had 2 six shooters strapped around his waist. He would draw his guns and make sounds of guns firing. And once in awhile he would fall over on the ground and pretend to be shot. We finally left after hearing all this loud commotion. I was about eleven or twelve at the time, and the family lived on the Indiana State Farm where we had parties a few times a year to meet other Farm families and make new friends. Of course the Baugh family was always included.

Doug Phelps, ILEA:
It's hard to put into a few words the good memories I have of Jim. We worked together at the ILEA for some 11 years teaching firearms to the "troops." Jim was a dedicated instructor who took his responsibilities seriously yet with a sense of humor that made everyone around him enjoy the moment. I guess from our many conversations about our families one could tell he was immensely proud of his and loved sharing good family moments. Jim was a man of integrity, compassion and devotion to his family first then to his profession. I'll miss him.

Brent Robinson:
I can remember one summer it was late 90's and I was going home from work in Waveland and I was using the Russellville, Morton road. I happened upon a wreck where the person was highly drunk and was trying to change a flat tire but the passenger tie rod was broke. Someone had called dispatch and low and behold it was Jim Baugh who responded. He got out of his car and was talking to this person while the guy kept leaning towards Jim. Jim said, "Don?t get too close to me or I will arrest you." Well the guy kept it up so Jim got in his car trunk and got a trash bag out and this guy said to Jim, "Don?t put that over my head." Jim said "You idiot, I'm putting it on my car seat so you don't get my car dirty." He told me that he was going to turn his car around so I needed to raise my right hand. He said, "Now you're a deputy, watch him. If he runs tackle him." That was the first time he deputized me.

Mary Williams:
I really didn't know Jim but I have heard of his faithfulness to his duties. From everyone I have talked to and the crying men I saw at St. Paul's Catholic Church on January 3rd, it is very apparent that he was loved and respected by everyone in the community. I am so sorry. Take it one day at a time.

Linda Cain, Away Home Shelter:
I will miss waving to Jim on Manhattan Road. I will also miss teasing him on Monday evenings at the Barnyard Cafe about the beans and cornbread he usually had, and saying be careful on the road.

D'Anne Brown:
When I was a little girl, I remember my dad (Charlie Brown) taking me to the old Putnam County Jail to visit Jim Baugh and his family. I found it so unique for a family to be living in the jail. At first I was afraid to go visit as Jim and my dad used to tease me and even locked me in a cell. I always enjoyed his pleasant smile. Captain Jim Baugh will be greatly missed. I will keep the family in my prayers. Stay strong. Pray. Peace be with you.

Sally Gray:
When Jerrod ran for sheriff in 1990, after a program at the fairgrounds where the candidates spoke, I spoke with Jim and said, "You can be very proud of your son." I was rewarded with that famous smile and a look of such pride that I will never forget.

Pam (Masten) Buis:
The night Mark Frisbee was elected sheriff I was pulling out of the Shell station headed north when I saw a car coming, but it wasn't very close. He acted like he wanted to pass going up Water Works Hill but he stayed close to my bumper, never passing. So I sped up thinking it was some young kid in a sports car. When I got to the top of the hill he put on his lights and pulled me over. He came back to my car and said, "Young lady (I laughed because I'm 58) do you know how fast you are going?" I said, "Yes, I?m sorry Jim. I just got this car and I didn't like you following me so close." He said, "You called me Jim, who are you?" I told him I was Pam Buis. He said, "Pam, you never do stuff like this. Do you know how fast you were going?" I again said yes. He said, "I ought to give you a ticket. You were going 65." I said, "No I wasn?t." He said, "Yes you were." I said, "No I wasn't." He then asked me how fast I thought I was going. I told him I was going 75 and that he better get that radar thing fixed. He reared back and laughed and laughed. He was still shaking his head and laughing as he drove away. He never gave me a ticket.

Wayne Regnier:
While I was out and about on Thursday, January 8th I stopped at Jim's gravesite. I knew at the time that I had a very small tear in the back pocket of my jeans. As I slid out of the car, I caught the hole on the seatbelt and tore a very large hole all the way across the back of my pants. It was in the low 20s outside. As I stood up to go over to the grave I swear I heard Jim laughing that great laugh. My reply was, "Damn you Jim-quit laughing."

Phyllis Stogdill:
Jim Baugh was always so friendly and adapted to all our personalities. When my first son, Brian and Valerie were married in Decatur, Alabama, Jim and Lauralee drove there for a couple days. During the lunch reception afterwards, Jim followed Brian around with his handcuffs to tease him that he'd handcuff him to a pipe or something strong. When Steve and Corky were married in South Bend, he and Lauralee came in an RV and parked in our driveway. They added laughter and love to our household. They stayed in the RV and gave courage to those of us who were nervous. We were at Steve and Corky's house for breakfast when Jim and Lauralee had been there overnight. Jim was so kind and attentive to Jessica who was so tiny. He was a fine, fun gentleman.

Brian Stogdill:
I remember meeting Jim for the first time in 1970. he was a policeman and nearly arrested Jim McDaniel and me for walking innocently along Bloomington Street near the railroad tracks south of Greencastle. Never mind it was midnight and we were dressed like bums. He scared the bejeebers out of us, mistaking us for recently escaped convicts. So began a lifelong friendship.
I never think of Jim without Lauralee. Soon after we met, we were eating dinner at their home on the north side of town. The house was full of love. Lauralee fixed the world's best spaghetti and gave us hugs. Jim showed off his barbed wire fence collection and took our pictures. We were all skinny and had sideburns in those days. Jim had such enthusiasm for life. Mostly, I remember laughing with him about one thing or another. Working hard and laughing. He reinforced what I learned as a child. He respected my parents before he even met them. I was proud to introduce my parents to Jim and Lauralee. And my folks respected the two of them. And we laughed together.
Jim was always there. He'd pass me on the street when I was walking home from the library and he'd take a minute and talk. "Hey, boy, get in the car." He was a good listener. He was dedicated and ethical. He taught me how to shoot. He helped me get a 22-gauge rifle I still keep with pride. We shot cow paddies at his parent's farm. What a mess! He taught gun safety and driving safety, just because he thought you should know. How he loved his job.
We did a project with Jim when he joined the Putnam County Sheriff?s Department. He locked us up first, of course, that was his way. "Oops, did that door slam shut?" But we got to enjoy the poetry on the jail cell walls. And those prisoners never had it so good as to have Lauralee with her degree in Home Economics fix their meals. They never wanted to leave. Well, we ate too. Sunday afternoons at the jail residence where spent with family. I can still see Jim taking turns with Jason and Jerrod bouncing on his shoulders than rasslin' on the carpet. We'd ride and speak of Jason and Jerrod's growth, vocabulary, school activities and church projects. He was so proud of his family. Then he'd talk about his property where he was going to build a house someday, from the basement up. We got to have lunch in this house one June several years ago. It was a memorable visit.
When Jim McDaniel had his accident, Jim drove lights and sirens running to Indianapolis so we could support Jim and his family. When I needed a friend to talk to during those dark days, Jim and Lauralee were there.
When my brother Steve came to visit me, we came to Jim's house. He adopted us into his family for a few years. And we adopted him into our hearts forever. I remember when Jim came to our wedding in Alabama. I made him dress in a tuxedo to be a groomsmen, he paid me back by handcuffing me to the urinal at the wedding reception. Well, almost. I was outnumbered in the bathroom and he could have had his way with me but showed pity on me at the last moment.
When Jim was sheriff, I felt as though the whole country was safer. When Valerie and I moved to San Antonio, he'd stop by en route to Mexico and we'd meet at the Alamo just because he wanted to see it. When dad died, Steve and I agreed that Jim should have his service revolver. Who else deserved it? It meant a lot to us that Jim had it.
Now dad and Jim are swapping stories and laughing. I think heaven's going to be a lot safer knowing those two fellows are up there watching over us and getting things ready for our big reunion.
We always looked forward to reading your Christmas letter and catching up on life events. Life is too short. I regret that I haven't talked with Jim for a while. I would have told him I learned a lot from him. I would have thanked him for being my friend. And we would have laughed together.

Steve Stogdill:
The entire Baugh family has welcomed me into family times, private times and made me feel confidence and love. I carry with me many things daily that are the result of experiences I have had with them. Jim was awesome?he taught me there is power in being humble, and never to take yourself too seriously. I watched Jim treat all the prisoners with respect and compassion. Jim spoke to prisoners in a kind manner; I think often of how he would always offer them an extra blanket, or to see if they wanted extra portions of food.
I have countless memories of Jim. I have only hit the tip of the iceberg with these few. I will carry Jim with me always. Jim always greeted me and made me feel very special. When Jim would leave I always wanted more time together, and again he'd leave me feeling special.
Jim was fabulous with all people, and had real gifts of communicating with children. The name James means a lot to me, for William James, Brian James, James McDaniel and James Baugh. For this reason we knew we wanted our first male child to be called James for the integrity attached to that name, and those such as Jim Baugh. Jim treated my kids like his own, or as adopted grandkids or something like that. We have favorite video footage of Jim entertaining the kids with his "flea in the bag" routine.
I went on a run with Jim where there was a hostage situation. All of the other men put their guns away when they thought they had shot this man, Jim didn't. He jumped in the water, onto the man and got the gun away. Jim had recognized that the man was playing a trick and saved the day by preventing others from being shot when they thought it was safe. Jim was modest and explained he did what needed to be done. He had to accompany this prisoner with other officers back to the jail?he asked David Weisman and me to drive his unmarked car back to the jail for him. We didn't get further than a mile before we got pulled over. The man was agitated because he perceived we were in a private car and had a police radio. He explained that we were in big trouble for having the radio in our car. We explained that we had Jim's car and that we were returning it to the jail. He seemed suspicious. Again we offered that he could call Jim on his radio, as he was in one of the other squad cars. The man did, and what did I hear? Jim said, "?Steve who?"
I recall the fun of announcing to Jim and Lauralee our engagement. I told Jim that Corky was always disappointed she was never was dubbed a special deputy. Jim gave her a paper to write out her name as she wanted it to appear on the card, and she wrote Corky Stogdill. Jim laughed and said that she didn't put the right name, that it should be Dugger. After much dialogue, Jim finally realized that Corky was trying to tell him that her name was changing, and that we were to be married. It has always been with pride that we had Jim and Lauralee attend our wedding and see our relationship come full circle. It was with honor that Jim stood up with us at our wedding.
I went on a run with Jim...it was a big deal because we really flew through the country?it was great! The car was unmarked, and my job was to keep the police light on the dash?on the dash. I looked at the speedometer and we were doing more than 100 mph, easily. We passed cars like they were standing still. I looked at the trees flying by and realized I didn't have my seatbelt on, and that at this speed it probably didn't matter either way. I also took note that I was not at all nervous?I had great confidence in Jim's performance and training. I learned that about Jim?I could always count on him, I could always have confidence in him. He never failed me.
Jim and Lauralee came to my Bistro for lunch not long ago. They called ahead and confirmed that we would be available to visit and join them for lunch. We sat and talked for several hours (that seemed to pass quickly), and at the end of the visit, we assumed they had relatives to visit in Michigan, or some other folks to see on the trip. They explained that they only left town to have lunch with us, and that they would be returning home. Corky and I were awed at their gesture of love and friendship; flattered to receive such a gift. We shall always remain awed.
I was impressed with Jim's time spent learning sign language. He was determined to learn it well enough so that he could sign the sermon in church. Jim is the perfect example of what god had in mind by putting us on this planet together. We are to form loving friendships, relationships, families and to be kind and enthusiastic about living each day. Christ only asks that we believe that he died for our sins, and we are promised eternity in Heaven. I know how to get to heaven, and I know that I will find Jim there waiting. I am thrilled to know that I don't have to say goodbye to Jim, but to know that I will see him again, and that we will continue to enjoy the love that formed between us. This relationship is so special, that it was certainly a gift from God, and will be continued.

Kathi Harbison:
I took care of Jim's father, Gale, once at the hospital. Jim would come in the back elevator every single evening to see his dad. He'd stay a long time and talk with him.
My last memory was at Dr. Scamahorn's office. He told the doc his cat was hit and came in moaning and groaning. It weighed 17 pounds. I told him so does mine. Jim would be pleased that so many people remembered him.

June, Kathy, Tom and Jerry:
Jim died helping others. God needed him for that purpose.

Jeffrey Crouch:
As a jailer I wanted to qualify at the range. Jim was running the show, I didn't know him well at the time. I remember in class I called the magazine a clip and he corrected me quick. He hated that. As I went through the shooting qualifications I took my target to him, he counted it up and I was 1 point short. He just smiled and I went through the course a second time. I brought him my target he counted my score, I was 1 point short again. so I went the third time, brought him my target and guess what, I was 1 point short. He laughed and looked at me and said, "Go count it again. I'm only human. Maybe I overlooked a shot." So I did and sure enough he was only human. I showed it to him and he said, "See, I knew you could do it."

Kyle, EMT Operation Life:
My best memory is going through pre-basic and Jim helping me understand so much. I also remember being on runs with him.

Myrna :
My first day working at the Limedale store, I was robbed. I was by myself. Jim was the policeman that answered the call. While he was asking me questions he asked me what the gun looked like. I asked him to get his gun out. I took it and showed him. He politely and nervously asked, "Can I have my gun back?" He did catch the 2 men. Jim was very personable and a wonderful Christian.

Trudi Sutherlin:
Memories of Officer Jim, Uncle Jim, Just Jim,
As I write of my memories with Jim Baugh, there are many:
I grew up, a young teenager in Putnam County, when he first became a police officer, sheriff and deputy. I thought of Jim and Lauralee and the boys as family and always will. Jim escorted many of my High school ball teams to Sectionals, Regionals, and Championships with his police vehicle, lights and sirens stopping traffic and honoring the teams. Most of my teammates really thought he was my uncle. He helped unlock numerous cars, that I left the keys inside. He never complained.
I know I got my love of Photography from Jim. I remember him showing me how to take pictures. Once he showed me how to take a picture that looked like "my Dad was standing in the Palm of my Mom's Hand".
I remember running out of gas as a young driver, just a few blocks from the Old Jail. My first thought, Jim will help. He did! I'll never forget making that call from Jim's sheriffs office desk, not the lobby phone, the Sheriffs desk. Dad, I'm at the jail,,, Dad stop laughing,,, My Dad laughing uncontrollably because he thought I had gotten in trouble. You've got to understand Dad & Jim had agreed if any of us kids got in trouble , we would spend the night in jail to learn our lesson. Fortunately, my only visits to the Jail , were friendly ones. I believe , I even baby-sat Jason and Jerrod in the residence of the jail a few times.
As a young adult, I remember, when I was planning to move away from Indiana, my Dad thought I needed a handgun for protection. Once again my first thought, I'll talk to Jim for his advise. I was sitting in Jim's home , he walks up to me and puts a handgun in my hand. He asks, what do you feel about that gun. I said , it scares me. Jim , places his hand on my shoulder and says, you are not ready for a handgun. Instead he gives me a can of mace, and a fatherly discussion in self defense.
I moved away from Indiana in 1987. But, I would get back to Greencastle often, Fair , Holidays, Graduations. and whenever I pass a police car, the first thing I think of , Was that Jim!!! When you have the utmost respect and love for someone, that feeling willing will never change. In my eyes, the Putnam County Sheriffs Department will always be a symbol of Jim Baugh. He earned , respect , love of Community and the Community love of Him!
Jim, I will see you again someday, until that time enjoy your retirement in Heaven!!!!
I'm proud, the County recognized Jim Baugh so Honorably!

Gayle Buttram:
There is so much that Uncle Jim did for everyone and we all love him for that, but I remember when Tara and Jerrod had their first get together and Uncle Jim took the time to teach me how to shoot a gun, although I wasn't any good at it. I also remember when I was younger and I would stay at my grandma's house and Jim would suddenly pop up and he would make the stay at grandma's so much more entertaining. Uncle Jim didn't treat me like a little kid that was a bother to have around, he played with me, told me stories about his childhood, and my father's childhood, you know the stories my dad wouldn't tell me, he also taught me that chicken joke that you do with a dish towel, that was the most amazing thing I had ever seen...even at the age 11 or 12. Uncle Jim impacted everyone in my family, he inspired my father get onto the Marion County Sheriff's Department, helped my mother, who is also on MCSD, through some of her tougher cases, and entertained my sister, cousins, and myself. We will always love Jim, he was such a great guy.

Chris Helmer:
I have known Jim my entire life. Jim and my dad, Tom Helmer, spent the past 23 years together at the Putnam County Sheriffs Department. I have many wonderful memories of Jim. Whether it was when i was a little kid running around the old jail, during some sort of training Jim was instructing, or meeting him somwhere to eat when i road along with my dad. Jim always did or said something i would remember. From his shock pens to his practical jokes Jim always knew how to make people laugh. Like many others i am privileged to say that i was instructed in law enforcement, as well as in life by Jim Baugh. The values of family, safety, honesty, and loyalty among many other things, shined through Jim constantly. I am a better person, and will be a better police officer because of what Jim taught me. When i make it on the road i promise i will make you proud Jim.

Leslee Mitchell: 
The other day at work I got in a car other than my own to go pick someone up. As I was putting the keys in the ignition I looked over and there was a lady bug riding shotgun. Instead of starting the car I stopped and laughed out loud. I wasn't the only one laughing...I'm sure. I love you, Uncle Jim and I can't wait to see you.

Steve Shoup: 
It was with great shock and sadness I read of Jim's death at the Banner-Graphic online web site. I was grateful to find the memorial web site address for Jim in today's edition, so that I could have a conduit for sending my belated, but nonetheless sincere, sympathy and shared grief at his passing.
I have fond memories of both Jim and Lauralee from my Greencastle days, when Mrs. Baugh was my high school homeroom teacher. Two finer and more wonderful people I cannot recall.
I can only hope that the magic and memories of Jim within your lives keeps him alive and close. As long as you can remember him then he'll never be gone from you. God bless you and be with you.

Carol Deom - Retired GPD: 
I wish there was a way I could put down all the things I remembered about Jim, but that would take forever. The first time I met Jim he was sheriff, I had brought in a young collage student who was running around in just his tennis shoes on. I was nervous because this was my first arrest and because I would have to wake up JIM BAUGH. When Jim came down to the cell block area, he saw the young man and Jim got a blanket and made a poncho so I could continue with my arrest. After I was done Jim said well done Carol. I sure miss him.

Dougie:
I have thought about writing this since the day we were offered the cards at the funeral. The comment was made to write down any memories or stories of Jim. I don't have enough memory in my computer to hold the memories of Uncle Jim. It is only 20 gigabyte.
When I was a little boy I was once told that I would grow up to be a fine man someday, I must say that 90 percent of the credit goes to my dad, but I must give 10% of the credit to my uncle Jim. He was my great uncle even though I don't think I realized that until I was 15 or 16 years old. He was always uncle Jim.
When I was around twelve I remember my first, what I call big, test of responsibility trial by Jim. I was always bugging him to let me take care of the horses when they left for trips. Well, I got my chance. I believe there were three; Tina, Sandale Star, And Nosey B. Nipper came in the third year. They were leaving for a week and I was asked to come down there the day before they were leaving, and the instructions began. Nosey was a big quarter horse that could get fiesty at any given time. I was showed how to intimidate him into going to the pasture out back and how to coax him inside in the evening. Tina was as gentle as a flower, and Sandale, well she had a mind of her own but we got along well. I was showed how to feed them also. For some reason I had to mix eggs with the feed I didn't think about it then but as I am older I just wonder if that was his test to see if i fed them every time I was supposed to. I must have passed the test, for I got the honor the next two years of the same task. Who in there right mind would let a twelve year old take care of 3 horses on there own with no supervision for a week, that I was aware of, well that person was uncle Jim he had faith that I would be alright in the task, and I did I learned responibility.
Uncle Jim was my mentor in the firearm field he taught me everything I know to this day about safety, shooting straight and being a competitor, I became a reserve police officer in 1994 I could not wait until I could run by his house and tell him that I shot the second highest out of my class on the first try a 236 out of 240.
I don't think I ever told Jim that I loved Him or he me and I wondered if he ever knew how much I did or if he did me or was it just an Uncle nephew have to thing until the day of the funeral when I met so many relatives that got the same treatment form you. You had enough love for a world and I know now you loved your family very much.
I had no idea how busy he was there must have been 40 hours in a day for him ,everyone I talked to talked about what he did for them and when and I set back in awe because on some of those days he was with me building our new home and I just wowed him in that he could do so much for everyone and still be home at night when he was not at work. I know because I drive by your house everyday and look into there to see you and Aunt Laura Lee eating or the lights on down stairs I knew you were there. I did not stop all the time because I did not want to be a pest but I could spend hours there listening to your stories, or you showing me what you got that week that you had in your back room, I don't think that a visit went by that you did not take me in there to show me something new, you were proud of Jason and Jerrod and you would show me something either they had done or what you got for them.You taught me to cherish family gifts I must say that that has brought me along way, I still have the Eisenhower silver dollors that Grandpa Baugh gave me as a child, and you bet I will think of you every time I look at the silver standing liberty and the indiana quater that is forever a part of my basement floor. I have one last thing to say. I am glad I found your badge and gave it back to you in december I never knew you thought Jerrod had it I would not want to go through life If it had not been found and Jerrod cleared of it. ther are many more memories that I will cherish and pass along to the next generations you will live on forever in my heart and those that I talk to.
I just want to say I love you and thank you for Being Uncle Jim to myself, Carrie who I think you are the only relative in the whole family that I ever heard her call her Uncle,Andrew who thinks the world of you and Katie who loves your pink candy, you always knew how to make her laugh.

David Lee Buttram: 
It has taken a while for me to set down and write this. It is still hard to believe Uncle Jim is no longer with us. I have so many fond and fun memories of Uncle Jim. Uncle Jim was one of the first to be around when dad passed away some 16 years ago. As a matter of fact Jim was always there, no matter how large or small the crisis was. I know he has babied and taken care of my mom since then. Of course he has always watched over all of his sisters making sure they were okay.I know I thanked him many times but it never enough to match the effort he gave.
One of my favorite memories of Uncle Jim is when he came to visit me in Connecticut. Well he was really attending a shooting competition in Springfield, Mass. He made sure I knew he was coming so we could get together. We went to dinner at a place that served Asian and Island Foods (big surprise Huh?) and they had Tiki Girls dancing in Grass skirts and guys blowing fire out of their mouths etc. Jim and I thought that was real cool as we ate and drank our virgin umbrella drinks out of coconut glasses and watched the show. It was great fun. Sure did not seem like New England.
I remember the time I took my dad and Grandpa Baugh fishing. Jim and the boys came along and we caught tons of fish (well Jerrod and Jason did) Jim and I were busy helping Dad and Gale untangle lines and get fish off the hooks. It was probably the last time Grandpa went fishing and he had a blast.
How about the Red?? Dune Buggy. I did make the mistake, because I was so Macho, of telling Uncle Jim if you can drive this thing I can ride it. Boy was I wrong, but it was fun.
I remember standing on the sidelines of the South Putnam Linton playoff game when South Putnam making a run for the Hoosier Dome. Jim was quietly explaining the rules of etiquette and decorum to a bunch of drunk fathers standing on the sidelines. I did not think we would make it out alive when South Put won, but of course we did.
Jackie and I went to Florida one year and Mom was watching my teenage kids at home. Of course Uncle Jim had to check in on mom and make sure she was okay. My daughter had locked her keys in her car and she did not get to Danville in time to catch the bus for the team trip to North Put. Yep you guessed it, Uncle Jim tossed Carrie and her friend in the back of the squad car and of course "quietly" delivered them to the game.
My son Joey was just starting out in Go-kart racing which Jim and the boys enjoyed watching. They were all out at County Line Raceway one night watching Joey run and they noticed Joey was not moving up very well. I simply explained we are running on treaded tires and we really need slicks to compete. I explained it was not in this years budget and we would just have to survive the season. Next thing I know Uncle Jim is walking up and down the pits talking to everyone there, heck I think he knew everyone. Of course I did not know he was not gabbing as usual, but getting info on what tires to buy. Sure enough, several days later on my front porch in Danville was a new set of slicks from Jim, Jason, and Jerrod (Team Enforcement). We ended up doing much better and even winning a couple of races. That gift was never forgotten.
Uncle Jim helped and showed me so many things from photography tips, to how to lead a clay pigeon just right. I am surely going to miss the flick on the ear as I am eating at the Chinese Buffet in Plainfield, or a pinch on the arm at the Wal-mart or the phone calls at work telling me 'So and So' is testing at Putnam Park, get out here bring your camera.
I know this is a remembrance page for Uncle Jim because he was a great man, but behind every great man there is a great woman. In all of the stories above my "Mean Old Aunt" was supportive, assisting, or just standing back there shaking her head in disbelief. And no Jackie is not Laura Lees sister. You did a great job with him Auntie !
I always thought he was just treating us special because we were family. It is obvious that he touched not only family but everyone he came in contact with.
Uncle Jim will be greatly missed, and the world is a little more empty without him, but I know he is sitting at the right hand of God and I am looking forward to that day of joyful reunion. May God Bless and keep all of you.

Al Clarke, Superintendent, Putnamville Correctional Facility: 
My favorite memory of Jim is his warmth and straight-forwardness. Jim welcomed me as superintendent. He was gracious and friendly, a man you do not forget. These memorials by so many should warm his family in the years ahead.

Mgch: 
I didn't have need of official capacities, but I loved to see Jim 'Light Up' in Wal-Mart or wherever when I greeted him with, "High grandpa!" His pride abounded.

Cletus & Hazel Voges, Perry Co.: 
I remember Jim best for the good times we shared when he and I were Sheriff at the same time. We all sat together at the Sheriff's Conventions back in the '70s and early '80s. He was a great guy. God bless Laura and family.

Clay Henry: 
I remember Jim laughing at the way I held a pistol after Jerrod had taught Blake and I how to shoot. He said, "You're holding that 9mm like a darn girl."

Deputy Director, Department of Justice - Kosovo Police Service School: 
Jim was a good man who will be missed by all he came in contact with. He was a superb law enforcement officer and a great supporter of police training in Indiana.

SSG Todd Strong, 35th Military Police Co.: 
I met Capt. Baugh when I attended ILEA class 96-127. I later attended a combat shotgun school that he taught. I held high appreciation for him. He was a true law enforcement officer.

Reserve Officer, Clay City Police Dept.: 
God Bless You Jim! I was once in need of your services and you did not hesitate to do everything you could and more. It is my wish that I will be able to give a little of the caring and kindness you gave others, and myself in our time of need. I am proud to have known you and been able to call you a friend.