John Waggoner Polhemus

John Waggoner Polhemus, 76, of Decatur passed from this earth Thursday, January 22, 2026.

Funeral is 2:00 p.m. Tuesday, January 28, 2026 at Hawkins Funeral Home Chapel in Decatur. Visitation is Noon Tuesday before the service at the funeral home.

John was born January 7, 1950 to Merle Phillips Polhemus, Sr. and Hazel Lucille Waggoner Polhemus in Dallas, Texas. John graduated from Hillcrest High School. He was united in marriage December 1, 1972 to Jennie Behan in Dallas, Texas; married happily over 52 years before her passing in 2024. Shortly after his marriage to Jennie, they moved to Decatur and he began to run the family ranch. John also drove a school bus for Decatur ISD and Durham Transportation for many years. 

John graduated from the police academy in 1990 and began working as a Reserve Deputy for the Wise County Sheriff’s Office for a short time before serving as a Reserve Officer for the Decatur Police Department for 32 years. He enjoyed flying and all things aviation and previously served on the Decatur Airport Board. He was a beloved father, grandfather, and friend to many who will miss him dearly.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Merle and Hazel Lucille Waggoner Polhemus; and his beloved wife Jennie Behan Polhemus.

Those left to cherish his memory are his son Jay Polhemus and wife Jennifer of Bowie; his granddaughter, Kylie Polhemus of Bowie; extended family members and a host of friends.