In this episode of Bluegrass Beat, host Critley King-Smith speaks with Pam Phipps, mother of Russell County Deputy Joshua Phipps, who was killed in the line of duty in 2024.

They reflect on Joshua’s life beyond the badge, who he was as a son, what led him to serve, and the legacy he leaves behind. Pam shares what it means to see her son honored on the National and  Kentucky Law Enforcement memorials and speaks to the importance of remembering the men and women behind the names etched there.

This conversation also explores the difficult reality families face after loss, when public attention fades, but grief remains, and highlights the ways law enforcement agencies and communities can continue to support those left behind. It is a powerful and personal look at love, sacrifice, and the enduring impact of a life lived in service.

ABOUT THE KENTUCKY LAW ENFORCEMENT MEMORIAL FOUNDATION

The Kentucky Law Enforcement Memorial Foundation seeks to recognize all Kentucky peace officers who have given their lives in service to the commonwealth.

The memorial foundation was established in 1999 to build a monument recognizing Kentucky officers who have made the ultimate sacrifice. Once the monument was completed in 2000, the organization expanded its efforts to include an ongoing financial endowment program, which helps officers and their families with educational, medical and emergency needs. Kentucky’s Law Enforcement Memorial Monument holds the names of 599 men and women heroes who have died in the line of duty since 1845.

For more information, click here.

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The Bluegrass Beat is recorded and produced by the Kentucky Department of Criminal Justice Training’s Public Information Office, a proud member of Team Kentucky.

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Music by Music for Creators from Pixabay.‍ ‍