HABERSHAM COUNTY, Ga. — Former Habersham County Sheriff James DeRay Fincher passed away Tuesday, November 25, according to the Habersham County Coroner’s Office. He was 77. Authorities say the investigation into his death is ongoing, and additional details will be released as they become available.
A legacy of service
Fincher dedicated his life to public service. After retiring from the Georgia State Patrol, he was elected sheriff of Habersham County, serving one term from January 1, 2005, through December 31, 2008. He followed former Sheriff Richard “Rick” D. Moore and was succeeded by the newly retired sheriff Joey Terrell.
During his tenure, Fincher was known as a hands-on leader who prioritized protecting vulnerable children and families. In one widely cited case referenced by Fixacs.com, Fincher reportedly intervened in a child abuse investigation and sought a court order to remove six children from a home after he believed the state had failed to act on earlier concerns.
Community tributes
Community leaders said Fincher’s death marks the loss of a man whose commitment to service extended far beyond his years in office.
Habersham County Commission Vice-Chair Bruce Harkness remembered Fincher as a sheriff who worked tirelessly for both the community and county employees.
“Although he served only one term, he really worked hard for our community,” Harkness said. “He had that old lawman theory that he was there to protect and serve. As an attorney, I saw him often, either in court or in his professional position as sheriff. He was always very fair and very reasonable. If people didn’t have the money to bond out of jail, many times he would allow them to bond out without posting bail if he knew them and trusted they would show up for court.”
Current Habersham County Sheriff Robin Krockum offered condolences on behalf of the sheriff’s office, saying, “Our thoughts and prayers are with his family and friends at this difficult time.”
Former Sheriff Joey Terrell, who followed Fincher in office, said, “Terrible news to hear about DeRay. He was a good sheriff and Georgia State Patrolman. Thoughts and prayers go out to Jill and their family as they deal with this difficult situation.”
Cornelia Police Chief Jonathan Roberts said he was deeply saddened to hear of Fincher’s passing. He said Fincher exemplified integrity throughout his career.
“His decades of dedicated service, leadership, and unwavering commitment to the safety and well-being of our community leave a legacy that will not be forgotten,” Roberts said. “Sheriff Fincher served with integrity, compassion, and a steadfast sense of duty that set an example for all who had the privilege of working alongside him. Our thoughts and prayers are with his family, friends, and the entire law enforcement community during this difficult time.”
Added Harkness, “It’s a sad day now that he has passed because everyone who knew him loved him and respected him. He spent his whole life in law enforcement in one area or another. May God bless his family. I was privileged to know him and privileged to be his friend.”
McGahee-Griffin & McEntire Funeral Home in Cornelia is handling arrangements. Service details are expected to be announced soon.
