Dan Easterling of Magee, Constable of Post 2, Simpson County, died Nov. 13, 2017, at Forrest General Hospital in Hattiesburg.
Easterling, 69, was affectionately known as “Dan the Man.” He had served in the constable’s position for 26 years, the longest political term in the county. He had 33 total years of law enforcement experience, including service on the Morton police force and as a Scott County constable before moving to Simpson County, where he also served for a time as a bailiff in Justice Court.
Easterling led the successful effort to pass national legislation that allowed constables to get paid for time spent in training.
Just before his death, the Simpson County Board of Supervisors had drafted a resolution recognizing and honoring Easterling for his “selfless service to the citizens of the County of Simpson and the State of Mississippi.” The resolution will now be presented posthumously.
Visitation was held for Easterling on Tuesday, Nov. 14. Funeral services are scheduled for 11 a.m. Wednesday, Nov. 15, at Tutor Funeral Home Chapel. Burial will be in Magee City Cemetery.
He is survived by his wife, Jeri Earles Easterling; a son, Scotty Easterling (Tracey); two step-children, Kim Puckett Easterling and Chris Puckett; a grandson, Blake Easterling (Laura Beth); step-grandson, Brock Salers; five great-grandchildren; and sisters, Mary Williams, Undean Hegwood and Velma Buffington.
He is preceded in death by his parents, Charlie Buck and Ruth Bowen Easterling; brothers, Ralph Easterling, Hollis Easterling and Will Easterling; a sister, Gladys Smith; and two half-brothers, Otis Easterling and Andrew Easterling.
