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Sunday night, June 14, 2020, a prayer vigil was held at Simpson Central School honoring the memory of Simpson County Deputy James Blair who was killed in the line of duty Friday, June 12, 2020 while escorting a prisoner to Region 8 for a mental evaluation.
Approximately 250 people were in attendance. Jeffrey Walker (archery coach at Simpson Central), Dr. Woodall (principal at Simpson Central), Kim Boyd (daughter of James Blair), and Simpson County Sheriff Paul Mullins spoke at the event. The vigil was organized by Jesse Berry and his wife who are members of the Simpson Central community.
Sheriff Mullins said, “ we have come together as a community…we are in this together. Mullins explained that due to size and attendance at the funeral for the people present to speak to the family at this time. “If anyone wants to show respect to the family, be along the route,” stated Mullins.
Plans are to encourage the public to be along the side of Highway 13. Pam Kennedy has organized a Respect Chain. If you have questions you may contact her through Facebook Messenger.
Sheriff Paul Mullins is asking that vehicles split up in different areas of the highway to cut down on the possible dangers of parking along the side of Highway 13. Areas to consider are: Highway 13 all the way to Prentiss, Tutor Funeral Home to 149 ramp, Highway 43 and Highway 13 intersection, Intersection of Highway 28 and 13, ramp on Highway 84 and highway 13 across the county line, and Highway 84 to Ruth.
Participants are encouraged to display blue and black balloons, flowers, and signs of respect.
Funeral arrangements for Mr. Blair are posted on Obituaries on MageeNews.com.
MageeNews.com is an online news website covering Simpson and surrounding counties as well as the State of Mississippi.
