Lex Love, 34, Boyd Police Department Deputy, Killed in the Line of Duty While Serving Wise County: Beloved Husband, Father, and Community Protector Remembered for His Courage, Loyalty, and Commitment to Public Safety – Obituary, Death
The Boyd Police Department and the entire Wise County community are mourning the tragic and untimely death of Deputy Lex Love, who was killed in the line of duty on October 3, 2024. At just 34 years old, Deputy Love had built a distinguished career as a dedicated public servant, always prioritizing the safety and well-being of others. His passing has left an enormous void in the hearts of his family, friends, colleagues, and the community he so loyally served. Known for his unwavering courage, compassion, and steadfast commitment to law enforcement, Lex’s death serves as a sobering reminder of the sacrifices made by those who protect and serve.
Born on July 10, 1990, in Decatur, Texas, Lex grew up with a deep sense of responsibility toward his community. He was raised by his parents, Michael and Susan Love, who instilled in him the values of hard work, integrity, and empathy from an early age. As a child, Lex admired the bravery and dedication of local law enforcement officers and dreamed of one day becoming a police officer himself. His sense of duty to his fellow citizens was evident even in his youth, as he often volunteered in community service projects and was known for his willingness to help those in need.
Lex attended Boyd High School, where he was a standout student and athlete. He played football and was known for his leadership on the field, but his academic achievements were equally impressive. Teachers and classmates alike remember Lex as someone who was always willing to lend a hand and who carried himself with a quiet confidence. His ability to balance academics, athletics, and service to his community made him a role model for many of his peers. After graduating from high school in 2008, Lex went on to study criminal justice at Texas A&M University, where he further developed his passion for law enforcement.
In 2011, after completing his studies, Lex joined the Boyd Police Department, fulfilling his lifelong dream of becoming a police officer. From the moment he put on his badge, Lex exemplified the core values of the department: integrity, professionalism, and service to others. Over the years, he became a respected figure within the department and the broader community. His colleagues describe him as a man of few words but great action—someone who led by example and always put the needs of others above his own. Lex was known for his calm demeanor under pressure, his unwavering sense of duty, and his deep compassion for those he served.
During his time with the Boyd Police Department, Lex earned a reputation for being one of the most reliable and hardworking officers on the force. He was promoted to the rank of Deputy in 2018, a recognition of his leadership, dedication, and service. Whether responding to emergencies, conducting investigations, or simply engaging with the community, Lex approached every aspect of his job with the same level of commitment and professionalism. He was known for going above and beyond to ensure the safety of Wise County residents, often working long hours and taking on additional responsibilities without hesitation.
Outside of his professional life, Lex was a devoted family man. He married his high school sweetheart, Emily, in 2012, and together they built a loving home for their two children, Jacob and Grace. Lex’s family was the center of his world, and he took immense pride in being a husband and father. Despite the demands of his job, he always made time for his family, whether it was coaching Jacob’s little league games, attending Grace’s school events, or planning family camping trips. His love for his family was evident in everything he did, and his children adored him.
Lex’s commitment to his family extended beyond his immediate household, as he was also deeply involved in his local church and community organizations. He volunteered with youth groups, mentored at-risk teens, and participated in various charity events throughout Wise County. His generosity, kindness, and willingness to help others made him a beloved figure not only in Boyd but throughout the entire region. Those who knew him often spoke of his humility and his strong sense of purpose—qualities that made him an exceptional law enforcement officer and an even better human being.
The tragic events that led to Lex’s death occurred on the evening of October 3, 2024, during a routine traffic stop on Highway 114 near Boyd. According to reports from the Texas Department of Public Safety, Deputy Love had initiated the stop after noticing suspicious activity. As he approached the vehicle, the situation quickly escalated, and Lex was shot by the driver in what authorities are calling an ambush. Despite the best efforts of emergency responders, Lex succumbed to his injuries at the scene.
The news of Deputy Love’s death has left the Boyd Police Department and the entire community in shock. His fellow officers are mourning the loss of a trusted colleague, friend, and leader, while his family is grappling with the unimaginable grief of losing a husband and father. In the days since his passing, tributes have poured in from across the state and the country, with many praising Lex’s bravery, dedication, and sacrifice.
In a statement, Boyd Police Chief Mark Harmon expressed his deep sorrow over Lex’s death, saying, “Deputy Love was one of the finest officers I’ve had the privilege of working with. He embodied everything we stand for as a department—integrity, professionalism, and an unwavering commitment to protecting the people of Wise County. Lex’s sacrifice will never be forgotten, and we will do everything we can to honor his memory and support his family during this incredibly difficult time.”
Governor Greg Abbott also issued a statement, offering his condolences to Lex’s family and the Boyd Police Department. “Deputy Lex Love’s death is a heartbreaking reminder of the risks our law enforcement officers face every day to keep us safe,” the statement read. “He served his community with honor and courage, and his sacrifice will be remembered by all Texans. Our thoughts and prayers are with his family, friends, and colleagues as they mourn this devastating loss.”
As the community comes together to remember and honor Lex’s life, plans for a public memorial service are underway. The service will be held at the Wise County Civic Center on October 12, 2024, where law enforcement officers from across the state will join family members, friends, and community members in paying their respects. A candlelight vigil is also planned for the evening of October 10 at Boyd City Park, where residents will gather to celebrate Lex’s life and reflect on the impact he had on their community.
In the days following Lex’s death, a GoFundMe campaign was established to support his wife, Emily, and their two children. The campaign, which has already surpassed its initial goal, is a testament to the outpouring of love and support from the community and beyond. Emily has expressed her deep gratitude for the kindness and generosity shown by friends, neighbors, and strangers alike, saying, “Lex was my rock, and I don’t know how we’ll move forward without him. But knowing how much he was loved and respected by so many people gives us some comfort in this incredibly painful time.”
As Wise County and the Boyd Police Department continue to process the loss of one of their own, Lex’s legacy of service, bravery, and compassion will live on in the hearts of those who knew and loved him. His death is a tragic reminder of the dangers faced by law enforcement officers every day, but it is also a testament to the courage and selflessness required of those who dedicate their lives to protecting others.
Deputy Lex Love’s sacrifice will never be forgotten, and his memory will continue to inspire future generations of officers to serve with the same level of integrity, commitment, and compassion that defined his career. Rest in peace, Deputy Love. Your service and sacrifice will forever be remembered by the community you so bravely protected.
