Retired BCSO deputy passes away following a battle with cancer

PRESS RELEASE –

October 15, 2025

Blount County, Tennessee – Sheriff James Lee Berrong is sad to announce the passing of retired deputy, Sgt. Rodney Postel. Sgt. Postel died in his sleep on October 15 at U.T. Medical Center following a valiant, year and-a-half long fight against cancer.

Sgt. Postel leaves behind his wife Paige, his mother, his daughter Emma, his sons Seth and Gage, two brothers, many extended family members, and numerous friends.

Sgt. Postel’s career with the Blount County Sheriff’s Office began in July 1999 after moving to Tennessee from Florida where he worked as a deputy sheriff at Seminole County Sheriff’s Office. After beginning his career at the BCSO, Sgt. Postel served as a patrol deputy for 14 years and moved up through the ranks. He was promoted to sergeant in 2011, and in 2013, he transitioned to the Traffic Safety Unit as a supervisor. He served in this role until he retired in July 2024.

For many years, Sgt. Postel, who was also known as “Boss” to his shift mates, shared his passion for instructing EVOC (emergency vehicle operations) with his fellow deputies and the recruits who came through the Sheriff’s Regional Law Enforcement Training Academy. Sgt. Postel was also an experienced motorman, spending countless hours in the saddle patrolling Blount County’s roadways and assisting with dignitary escorts, including former commanders-in-chief, vice-presidents, and many others. He also enjoyed pleasure riding on his Harley Davidson during his time off.

“Sgt. Postel had a servant’s heart,” Sheriff Berrong said. “He was well-respected within the Sheriff’s Office, and always willing to mentor and help the younger deputies coming up. He was a good leader. He engaged with members of the community, and he knew how to treat people.”

“Sadly, just as he announced his retirement in 2024, he was diagnosed with cancer. He had the heart of a lion and he fought the cancer valiantly for a year and a half. He lived his life to the fullest during his cancer treatments spending time with his family. My heart aches for his wife Paige, their young daughter, and his sons. It doesn’t seem fair, but I know he’s in Heaven with his son Kyle and Jesus now. I’ll always remember Sgt. Postel with a cup of coffee in his hand, any time of day or night. I will miss him.”

We hope you will join Sheriff Berrong and our BCSO deputies in offering condolences and prayers for Sgt. Postel’s family.

“Blessed are the peacemakers, for they will be called the children of God.” Matthew 5:9