09/11/2026
Updated with funeral arrangements.
The TSA is saddened to announce the passing of newly retired Knox County Sheriff Tom Spangler. Spangler passed away on Thursday, Sept. 10.
Sheriff Spangler was not only a servant to the citizens of Tennessee, but he also served his nation in the United States Air Force before rising in the ranks of the Knox County Sheriff’s Office. Spangler’s retirement from KCSO in 2009 was short-lived. After stepping down, he briefly pursued a passion for professional fishing, competing in Major League Fishing events, before returning to law enforcement. He served four years as Deputy Chief at the Blount County Sheriff’s Office before being elected to serve two terms as Knox County Sheriff. Spangler was a helicopter pilot and was involved in the creation of KCSO’s aviation unit.
Sheriff Spangler was an active member of the TSA, who was honored with the 2025 Lion Award for exceptional courage, leadership, perseverance, and sustained support for advancing Tennessee Law Enforcement.
We ask that you join us in keeping his family in your thoughts and prayers as they go through this difficult time ahead.
Spangler’s family will receive friends and family at Clear Springs Baptist Church on Sept. 17 from 4 until 7 p.m. A funeral service will follow that will be officiated by Dr. Bruce Spangler and Pastor Justin Pratt.
Then, on Sept. 18 at 1 p.m., there will be a procession from Mynatt Funeral Home to East Tennessee State Veterans Cemetery, where a graveside service will take place around 2 p.m.