February 10, 1928 – June 24, 2022
Berniece Jean Latham passed peacefully at home on June 24, 2022. She was proceeded in death by her parents, Gosper Lee and Leona Marie Dugger as well as her brother, Carlos Dugger and sister, Aloma Dugger Turk. She is survived by her husband, Simon Thomas, of the home; her daughter Judith Latham Goodwin and husband Ken; her son Michial Latham and wife Debbie; as well as grandchildren, Julie McMahon and family; Terry Melton and family; Rose McCracken and family; and Nicholas Goodwin and family. Also numerous great-grandchildren, nieces and nephews. Jean was a legend in the Oklahoma Law Enforcement community. She joined the Oklahoma City Police Department (OCPD) in 1955 as one of the first six women hired at the Department. Her badge number at that time was “1”. She was the first female detective at OCPD, she was the first female voted into the OCPD Honor Guard, she was a charter member of FOP Lodge 123 and served as one of the officers at one time of that organization. Jean was honored by being voted into the Oklahoma Law Enforcement Hall of Fame and served at one time on the Board of the Retired Police Officers Association (RPOA). She was recognized by various women’s organizations and local magazines. With the exception of her family, Jean loved the members of the OCPD without reservation. She felt each and every one of them was her favorite child, and they felt the same about her. She was a sweet, gentle soft-spoken soul. This disguised an inner core of solid steel and an unbelievable determination. Over her career she endured much discrimination but she hung in there for 28 glorious years. So many people, over the years, have looked to her as an example and she never disappointed.
She will be greatly missed and eternally loved.
Fond memories and expressions of sympathy may be shared at www.billmerrittfuneralservice.com for the Latham family.
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