SEVIERVILLE, Tenn. — Anderson County Sheriff Russell Barker has been honored as the 2025 Tennessee Sheriff of the Year by the Tennessee Sheriff’s Association. The award was presented during the Association’s annual convention held this week in Sevierville.
Each year, the Tennessee Sheriff’s Association selects one sheriff to receive this prestigious award in recognition of extraordinary service, leadership, or accomplishments. In addition to receiving the award, Sheriff Barker was also elected as the new President of the Association for the upcoming year.
Barker was recognized for his leadership during the emergency response to Hurricane Helene, which struck East Tennessee in September of last year. The storm caused widespread devastation across six counties, claiming 18 lives and leaving communities without power, clean water, and critical infrastructure. Many families lost homes, property, and access to basic needs.
Sheriff Barker played a key role in coordinating statewide relief efforts. From organizing and transporting truckloads of donated supplies—such as bottled water, food, clothing, and emergency gear—to working directly with local officials and emergency management teams, Barker helped ensure resources reached those most in need.
Tennessee Sheriff’s Association Executive Director Jeff Bledsoe presented the award, citing Barker’s “exceptional commitment and leadership in a time of crisis.”…