Buchanan County Sheriff's Office, Virginia
End of Watch Sunday, March 13, 2011
Reflections for Deputy Sheriff William Ezra Stiltner
Lord Jesus, as we watch America’s Peace Officers succumb to the wicked and evil in this world, Shot and Killed in the Line-of-Duty, it becomes difficult for us to pick up and move forward. Our communities are on the brink of exploding with tension. In light of the peace officers who are no longer with us, I pray for endurance for our communities and law enforcement agencies. Carry us through this time of strife, that through our struggles, our bonds may grow even more unbreakable. In Your mighty and holy name, I pray. Amen.
Holy Scriptures on Law Enforcement’s Mission:
“For the policeman [peace officer] does not frighten people who are doing right; but those doing evil will always fear him. So if you don’t want to be afraid, keep the laws and you will get along well. The policeman [peace officer] is sent by God to help you. But if you are doing something wrong, of course you should be afraid, for he [the peace officer] will have you punished. He [the peace officer] is sent by God for that very purpose. Obey the laws, then, for two reasons: first, to keep from being punished, and second, just because you know you should.” [Romans 13:3-5 TLB]
[Jesus Said,] “Greater love has no one than this, that someone lay down his life for his friends.” [John 15:13 ESV]
And he [Jesus] said to him, “Truly, I say to you, today you will be with me in paradise.” [Luke 23:43 ESV]
“Blessed are the peacemakers, for they shall be called sons [children] of God.” [Matthew 5:9 ESV]
“And I heard the voice of the Lord saying, “Whom shall I send, and who will go for us?” Then I said, “Here am I! Send me.” [Isaiah 6:8 ESV]
Chaplain Steven R. Closs, DDiv, MSBS, NCCA, FCPO-USA
Ordained Christian Global Outreach Minister No. 36526
The Badge 183 Peacemakers Prayer Ministry
January 12, 2024
It's still hard to understand how someone could be so cold hearted, to steal you away from so many people, that knew you for having such a big heart and would do anything for anyone. The day you were called to heaven, you left from the safety of your home while putting a swing set together for your grandkid,to answer the call for help of two brothers in destress, the same way any of us would have done in the same situation. I had a lot of good laughs and times in the class of the 84th basic session. I'm thankful for the time I was given, to be able to call you a friend. R. I. P Billy until we meet again.
Steven McVey - Saltville Virginia Police Department -Investigator/USMS - TFO -"CARFTF"
May 16, 2023
Thank you for your service and please know that your sacrifice will never, ever be forgotten by your law enforcement brethren. Rest in peace always.
Detective Cpl/3 Steven Rizzo
Delaware State Police (Retired)
March 13, 2021
Rest In Peace Brother LEO. Thank you and your family for your sacrifice and service.
Officer Mike Robinson (Ret.)
Upland Police Dept. CA
March 13, 2019
John 5:28, 29 - "Do not be amazed at this, for the hour is coming in which all those in the memorial tombs will hear his voice and come out". I pray that everyone can find peace in knowing that we will see this officer as well as many others again in Paradise soon. Until then, please accept my condolences.
A.W. Montgomery
Concerned Citizen
September 20, 2018
"Blessed are the peacemakers: for they shall be called the children of God."
Matthew 5:9
Marshal Chris Di Gerolamo
Federal Air Marshal Service
August 30, 2014
Today, 3 years after their sacrifice, “A” Shift honors Deputy Justus and and Deputy Stiltner by dedicating our watch to them. God bless you men, R.I.P. brothers. NEVER FORGOTTEN.
Sgt. Jason Slaughter
Radford City Police Department
March 13, 2014
Today on the two year anniversary of the sacrifice you both made, "A" Shift honors you by dedicating our watch to Deputy Stiltner and Deputy Justus. You will never be forgotten fellow Sheepdogs.
Sgt. J.L. Slaughter
Radford City Police Department
March 13, 2013
Billy, It only seems like yesterday we were sitting around swapping stories about hunting and the great outdoors. You were such a great officer and an amazing person all the way around. From time to time I often remember when I was an officer and you took me under your wing one day because I had no one else to ride with and you showed me the ropes that day. Billy, you are missed each and every day. Each time I sit down behind that console at dispatch around 1600 I'm just waiting to hear Car 21 to central I'll be off duty... I miss you billy.
Joshua Fuller Dispatcher
Buchanan County Sheriffs Office
April 22, 2012
It has been one year since your untimely passing. You service and dedication will not be missed.
Dennis Holmes, Senior Officer Specialist
Federal Bureau of Prisons
March 13, 2012
Thank you for your service Sir, RIP.
James Kotke
Civilian / Former Officer
WSF Park Police (Wi.)
February 13, 2012
To the family and friends of Deputy Sheriff William Stiltner, his fellow deputies, and most especially to William:
We honor your service to your community as a law enforcement officer and you will always be remembered and revered. Rest in Peace.
On behalf of our entire family, I wish to extend our sincerest condolences on the grievous loss you suffered when William was killed in the line of duty. It is obvious he was well-loved by many and well-respected by his peers as reflected in the loving reflections left for him.
May his loved ones continued to be supported by their law enforcement family and other police survivors. Our family grieves with you and for you. To William's family, you are in my heart's embrace today. I share your family's anquish in losing a beloved family member which surely has to be life's greatest sorrow. As we are fast approaching both their first Christmas without you and your eow anniversary date, they are in my thoughts and prayers during these difficult days.
This reflection is sent with the utmost respect for the years of distinquished service William gave to his community and the citizens of Virginia, and the supreme sacrifice he and his family made on March 13 , 2011
Phyllis Loya
Mom of fallen California Officer Larry Lasater, Pittsburg PD, eow 4/24/05
December 23, 2011
RIP brother thank you for your service.
Officer Lisa Rebar
LAPD-Topanga Division
June 4, 2011
Billy, thank you for everything and I will take our laughs and (moke) breaks with me through the rest of my career. A great friend you became and I will miss you dearly.
Deputy Sheriff Todd Hackney
Buchanan County Sheriff's Office
May 26, 2011
I come to the ODMP often to remember my late fiancé Dennis. Every time I come here it breaks my heart to know that yet another officer has fallen and that yet another family has to live their lives without the officer they loved. My heart goes out to everyone who knew and loved Deputy Stiltner. Know that you are not alone in the "journey" that you walk. Should you ever need anything please don't hesitate to contact me. (The Davis Co. Sheriff's Office in Iowa will always know how to reach me. I can also be found on Face Book.) You will be in my thoughts.
From reading the reflections left for William, he sounds like he was a great man with a beautiful spirit. Those of you who knew him in life were so blessed to have been able to share in it. I hope that you will all continue to find a way to celebrate and remember William's life and the MAN that he was. Remember that William's life was about so much more than the way he died. William will continue to live on as long as we continue to remember him.
Deputy Stiltner, thank you for helping to make this world a little safer for us all. YOU will not be forgotten. Please continue to watch over all of us as only you can. If you happen to bump into my late fiancé Dennis up there give him a big hug for me and the kids. It's been eight years and he's still very much missed and forever loved.
Wishing you brighter and better days,
Jocelyne :)
"Forever Remembering 26-3"
Jocelyne Brar (Winnipeg, MB Canada)
Fiancée of Deputy Dennis R. McElderry (EOW: 01/03/03)
April 12, 2011
Deputy Sheriff Stiltner,
Sir, I would just like to say thank you to you and your fellow Deputy Sheriff for your service and sacrifice for the citizens of Buchanan County. And to your family and loved ones, I wish to extend my deepest sympathy.
R.I.P.
USBP
Anonymous
USBP
April 5, 2011
Rest in Peace my Brother, God Bless you, your Family and your Dept.
Officer Bob Swope #5609
Olmsted Falls Police Dept.Ohio
March 23, 2011
Rest in peace brother. Enjoy patrol on the streets of heaven.
Police Officer II Dan Vaquero
San Diego Police Department
March 23, 2011
His Judgment Day:
The officer stood and faced his God, Which must always come to pass. He hoped his shoes were shinning, Just as brightly as his brass.
"Step forward now, Officer, How shall I deal with you? Have you always turned the other cheek To my church have you been true?"
The officer squared his shoulder and said, "No, Lord, I guess I aint, Because those of us who carry badges can't always be a saint.
I've had to work most Sundays, And at times my talk was rough, And sometimes I've been violent Because the streets are tough.
But I never took a penny That wasn't mine to keep.. Though I worked a lot of overtime, when the bills got too steep.
And I never passed a cry for help Though at times I shook with fear. And sometimes, God forgive me, I've wept an unmanly tear.
I know I don't deserve a place among the people here. They never wanted me around except to calm their fear.
If you've a place for me here, Lord, it needn't be so grand. I never expected or had too much, But if you don't...I'll understand.
There was silence all around the throne, where the saints often trod. As the officer waited quietly for the judgment of his God.
"Step forward now, Officer. You've borne your burdens well. Come walk a beat on heaven's streets, You've done your time in hell"
Author unknown
May God be with everyone
Motor officer Terry Pauley
Plano PD Plano, TX
March 22, 2011
R.I.P. Brother you have made the ultimate sacrifice.
Investigator
melrose park pd
March 22, 2011
GOD speed home to our father!!! speak to god for us, our father; for the rest of us, for the courage to carry on. for a safe journey till WE all meet again. Bless you Brother and your family!!!
PFC Putman
March 21, 2011
REST IN PEACE BROTHER, THANK YOU FOR YOUR SERVICE
PROVINCIAL CONSTABLE MARTY LALONDE
ONTARIO PROVINCIAL POLICE
March 21, 2011
You fought the good fight, rest in peace Brother. May God show his mercy and grace on your family, friends, and coworkers.
Det. John Creamer
Daytona Beach Police
March 21, 2011
Our hearts and prayers go out to your family and friends in their time of sorrow. May God Bless and Rest in Peace!
Cpl David Murphy
TX DPS
March 21, 2011
RIP Deputy Stiltner. You bravely served your county and your Commonwealth. Your sacrifice will not be forgotten.
Officer Dave Lyons
Newport News Int'l Airport Police Department
March 21, 2011
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