Michael Stephen “Mike” Risner, age 78, of Ethridge, TN, passed away on Wednesday, January 29, 2025, at Select Specialty Hospital in Nashville, TN. He was a retired director from the 22nd Judicial District Drug Task Force and served his country honorably in the US Army as a Green Beret 5th Special Forces, retiring as a Sgt First Class. He was also a dedicated member of Liberty Hill Baptist Church. Mr. Risner’s career in law enforcement included serving as a patrolman for the Lawrenceburg Police Department, where he later became captain. He then became chief deputy with the Lawrence County Sheriff’s Department under Sheriff Tom Pyrdum and also served as the Chief of Police in Shelbyville, TN.
He is survived by his wife, Patricia “Patti” Hardwick Risner of Ethridge, TN; one daughter, Anna Leigh Risner Goolsby (Kent) of Nashville, TN; one son, Erich Williams of Lawrenceburg, TN; three grandchildren, Avery Williams, Asher Williams, and Harper Goolsby; and one sister, Rosemary Jenkins. He was preceded in death by his parents, Dave and Mary Jane Irving Risner, and one brother, Clayton Risner.
Arrangements are being handled by Neal Funeral Home, and the family will receive friends from 4:00 PM to 8:00 PM Saturday, February 01, 2025, at Neal Funeral Home. Funeral services will be conducted at Neal Funeral Home at 2:00 PM Sunday, February 02, 2025, with interment to follow at Liberty Hill Cemetery in Ethridge, TN with full military honors. The family suggests memorials be made to Home For Our Troops or the DAV.
Michael Stephen “Mike” Risner will be remembered for his dedicated service to his country and community, and his legacy will live on in the hearts of those who knew and loved him.