Hailey
The Columbia community is mourning the loss of one of its most respected law enforcement leaders. Former Columbia Police Chief Ernest “Ernie” James Barbee passed away on Sunday, October 19, 2025.
His death marks the end of a long and honorable chapter in the city’s public-service history. Known for his wisdom, leadership, and decades of service, Ernie Barbee leaves behind a lasting legacy that continues to inspire officers and residents alike.
Who Was Ernie Barbee
Ernie Barbee was a dedicated police officer who spent more than 30 years serving the City of Columbia. He began working for the city in 1963 and joined the Columbia Police Department two years later in 1965.
Over time, he climbed the ranks, taking on roles such as sergeant, lieutenant, captain, and deputy chief. His hard work and commitment eventually earned him the position of Chief of Police in 1988. After nearly a decade of leading the department, he retired in April 1997.
Barbee was highly respected by his colleagues, who described him as intelligent, thoughtful, and always ready to help others. His leadership shaped the way the Columbia Police Department operated and mentored many young officers who went on to have successful careers.
Ernie Barbee’s Career Timeline
| Year | Position / Milestone | Description |
|---|---|---|
| 1963 | Joined City of Columbia | Began his career in public service |
| 1965 | Joined Columbia Police Department | Started his journey in law enforcement |
| 1988 | Appointed Chief of Police | Became head of the police department |
| April 1997 | Retired | Completed over 30 years of service |
Words from Colleagues
When the Columbia Police Department announced his death, many colleagues shared emotional tributes to honor his memory.
Retired Chief R. Boehm said, “Ernie was one of the most intelligent people I’ve ever known. He was a trusted mentor to me, and he always had helpful, wise advice. Over the many years we worked together, he became a great friend. I will miss him dearly.”
This heartfelt statement shows how deeply Barbee impacted those around him—not only as a leader but as a friend and mentor. Many officers credited him for teaching them patience, fairness, and professionalism, values that remain essential to the department today.
Why His Leadership Mattered
Barbee’s leadership style was built on respect, communication, and integrity. He believed that every officer, regardless of rank, had a role to play in keeping the community safe.
During his time as chief, he worked to strengthen the relationship between police and residents, encouraging trust and transparency.
He was known for treating everyone equally and supporting his team during challenging moments. Many recall how he personally guided younger officers and emphasized moral duty over personal ambition. These values made him not just a police chief, but also a role model for future generations.
His Legacy Lives On
Even after his retirement, Ernie Barbee’s influence remained within the Columbia Police Department. The training standards, discipline, and teamwork he promoted still serve as guiding principles today.
Those who knew him say that his mentorship extended beyond the job—he cared about the personal growth of his officers as much as their professional performance.
Barbee’s passing is a moment of reflection for the department and the community. His story serves as a reminder that true leadership comes from compassion, honesty, and dedication to public service.
The death of Ernie Barbee is a significant loss for Columbia, but his legacy of courage, wisdom, and mentorship will continue to shape the city’s police department for years to come.
His journey—from a young recruit in 1965 to the respected Chief of Police in 1988—shows the power of hard work and character.
The people who worked with him remember not only his skills as a law enforcement officer but also his kindness as a person. Columbia bids farewell to a remarkable man whose life was defined by service, loyalty, and leadership.