Earl Sermon Dyess
1980
Earl Sermon Dyess Sr.. Earl served in World War II.
How He Died
Manner
Homicide
Cause
Gunshot wound
Mechanism
Edged weapon
What Happened
Sheriff Earl Dyess was stabbed to death while investigating the sound of gunfire in an alley behind his home at 547 East Sagamore Avenue in Clewiston. As he confronted two teenagers, he demanded one of them give him his .22 caliber pistol. As a struggle began for possession of the weapon, the 18-year-old's 15-year-old stepbrother stabbed him in the heart. Both boys were apprehended the next day. The 15-year-old, who was tried as an adult, was convicted of second-degree murder and sentenced to 137 years. He died in prison in 2021. His stepbrother, charged with manslaughter, had his case dismissed in 1981. Sheriff Dyess had served with the Hendry County Sheriff's Office for 20 years.
Survivors
He was survived by his wife and two sons.
Service Record
1944 – 1946
Conflicts
World War II
Also Served
Hendry County Sheriff's Office
Sheriff
In Our Keeping
Permanent identifier
neuraspine_01krbxtmv1chd8h8b2556hh1n9
Record added
August 2, 2026
neuraweb.nw
Stewarded by
neuraweb.nw
Last updated
August 2, 2026
This page is permanent and free. No fee to view it, no advertising, no tracking, and no account required. It will not be taken down.
Are you family? This record can be claimed and maintained by those who knew Earl. Claim this record.
Be the first to honor Earl.
Leave a Tribute