Bowling Green, KY, October 23, 2025
News Summary
Jerry “Peanuts” Gaines, the long-serving former Sheriff of Warren County, has passed away at his home, leaving behind a legacy of public service and community involvement. Serving as sheriff for nearly four decades, Gaines was known for his leadership, dedication to law enforcement, and contributions to community initiatives such as the D.A.R.E. program. Acknowledged widely for his impact, the county will honor him with ‘Jerry ‘Peanuts’ Gaines Day’ and is naming a community training room in his memory.
Bowling Green, KY – Jerry “Peanuts” Gaines, the former Sheriff of Warren County, passed away at his home on Wednesday afternoon. His death was confirmed by current Warren County Sheriff Brett Hightower and Warren County Coroner Kevin Kirby. Gaines, who made significant contributions to the community, served for nearly five decades in various roles, leaving behind a lasting legacy.
Starting his career as a Warren County magistrate, Gaines transitioned to law enforcement and went on to serve as sheriff for nearly 40 years. He held the sheriff position from 1978 to 1982 and again from 1986 to 2018, making him the longest-serving sheriff in the history of Warren County. During his tenure, he was instrumental in implementing key initiatives and building community relationships.
Gaines was also deeply involved in state and national law enforcement organizations. He served five terms as president of the Kentucky Sheriff’s Association and was elected president of the National Sheriff’s Association in 2000. His contributions to law enforcement earned him the prestigious title of National Sheriff of the Year in 2010.
The Warren County Sheriff’s Office publicly recognized Gaines for his foundational contributions, emphasizing his kindness, humor, dedication, and playful personality. In a fitting tribute to his service, officials have declared January 23, 2025, as “Jerry ‘Peanuts’ Gaines Day.” It was also announced that the community and training room in the future Warren County Sheriff’s Office located on Sugar Maple Square will bear his name.
Funeral arrangements are being managed by J.C. Kirby and Sons Funeral Home. The Bowling Green Police Department has also acknowledged Gaines’ legacy, expressing gratitude for his humor and dedication to service. Among his notable achievements, Gaines was known for creating the D.A.R.E. program and establishing the Sheriff’s Citizens Academy to engage and educate the public.
Additionally, Gaines was a founding member of the Kentucky Sheriff’s Association’s Boys & Girls Ranch, further showcasing his commitment to youth in the community. Throughout his career, he built friendships with various influential figures, including Billy and Hillary Clinton.
Tributes pouring in from the Warren County Sheriff’s Office and the Bowling Green Police Department emphasize the significant impact Gaines had on the community and the positive influence he had on younger officers.
Gaines’ contributions to Warren County and the field of law enforcement will always be remembered, highlighting a career dedicated to public service and community engagement.
Key Contributions of Jerry “Peanuts” Gaines
- Longest-serving sheriff in Warren County history (1978-1982, 1986-2018)
- Served five terms as president of the Kentucky Sheriff’s Association
- Elected president of the National Sheriff’s Association in 2000
- Awarded National Sheriff of the Year in 2010
- Initiated D.A.R.E. program and founded Sheriff’s Citizens Academy
- Founding member of the Kentucky Sheriff’s Association’s Boys & Girls Ranch
Upcoming Memorial Events
- January 23, 2025 – Declared “Jerry ‘Peanuts’ Gaines Day”
- Community and training room at future Sheriff’s Office to be named in his honor
FAQs
Who was Jerry “Peanuts” Gaines?
Jerry “Peanuts” Gaines was the former Sheriff of Warren County, renowned for his extensive service in law enforcement.
How long did Gaines serve as sheriff?
Gaines served nearly 40 years as sheriff, holding the position from 1978 to 1982 and again from 1986 to 2018.
What notable awards did Gaines receive?
He was awarded the title of National Sheriff of the Year in 2010 by the National Sheriff’s Association.
What community initiatives was Gaines known for?
He was known for creating the D.A.R.E. program and establishing the Sheriff’s Citizens Academy.
When is “Jerry ‘Peanuts’ Gaines Day”?
Officials declared January 23, 2025, as “Jerry ‘Peanuts’ Gaines Day” in honor of his service.
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
HERE Resources
Bowling Green Residents Honored at Memorial Services
Additional Resources
- Bowling Green Daily News
- Wikipedia: Jerry Gaines
- WBKO News
- Google Search: Jerry Gaines
- WNKY News
- Google Scholar: Jerry Gaines
Author: STAFF HERE BOWLING GREEN WRITER
The BOWLING GREEN STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HEREBowlingGreen.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Bowling Green, Warren County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as the National Corvette Homecoming, International Festival, concerts at SKyPAC, and sports events at Beech Bend Park. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Bowling Green Area Chamber of Commerce and the African American Museum Bowling Green Area, plus leading businesses in automotive, apparel, and healthcare that power the local economy such as General Motors Corvette Assembly Plant, Fruit of the Loom, and Med Center Health. As part of the broader HERE network, including HERELexingtonKY.com and HERELouisville.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into Kentucky's dynamic landscape.
