United States of America
Headstone of James Robert Abel
U.S. Coast Guard · United States United States

James Robert Abel

Died December 30, 1976

James Robert Abel served in the U.S. Coast Guard.

How He Died
Manner Accident
Cause Multiple traumatic injuries
What Happened

Deputy Sheriff James Abel was killed in an automobile crash while responding to an officer needs assistance call. His vehicle struck a patch of ice on Chain of Rocks Road, near Maryville Road, and struck a utility pole. His patrol car caught fire as a result of the impact and Deputy Abel was killed. Deputy Abel had served with the Madison County Sheriff's Office for only three months and was a U.S. Coast Guard veteran of the Vietnam War.

Survivors
He is survived by his wife, daughter, two grandchildren, and parents.
Media
James Robert Abel
James Robert Abel 0 views
Service Record
U.S. Coast Guard
Also Served
Madison County Sheriff's Office
Deputy Sheriff
Memorials
National Law Enforcement Officers Memorial Panel 41-E · Line 15 cut as JAMES R ABEL
In Our Keeping
Permanent identifier neuraspine_01krbxtqg42az382r6t12fqb0f
Record added August 2, 2026 neuraweb.nw
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Last updated August 2, 2026

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In tribute

I served 1985 to 1993. You served too, before the badge - different uniform, same idea. You go where you are sent and you do not get to pick the call.

Deputy Sheriff Abel served with the Madison County Sheriff's Office.

Thank you for your service to the Edwardsville community, and for your service before it. Gone but never to be forgotten.

Rest easy, brother.

— S. Vincent Anthony, U.S. Army 1985-1993

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