VALDOSTA – Lt. Robert Guthrie, a longtime Lowndes County Sheriff’s Office deputy, died over the weekend at the age of 43, and his coworkers say he will be missed.

“Guthrie was a dedicated deputy sheriff, father husband and friend to many. He was never too busy to help anyone, lend an ear when you needed to talk or just give a smile,” said LCSO Capt. Stryde Jones.

Jones said the department has lost a leader and a friend.

“Guthrie was a fantastic guy. His death was unexpected, and the entire department is in shock, especially given his age,” Jones said. “In addition to losing a fantastic leader and deputy, we’ve lost a friend.”

The funeral services for Lieutenant Robert Guthrie have been made. Visitation will be held on Tuesday from 5:00 until 8:00 at Southside Baptist Church in Lakeland (321 Highway 221, Lakeland, Georgia). The funeral service will be Wednesday at 2:00 also at Southside Baptist Church with burial to follow at Guthrie Cemetery in Berrien County.

Music Funeral Services is assisting the family. On line condolences may be offered at www.musicfuneralservices.com.