Remembering a Lifetime of Service and Sacrifice: Community to Honor Fallen Hero Deputy John H. Coddou
The Harris County Sheriff's Office (HCSO) and the entirety of Harris County are in mourning following the tragic death of Deputy Investigator John H. Coddou, who passed away in the line of duty on April 23, 2024. Coddou was assisting in a crash incident near Fairfield in Cypress on the Grand Parkway when he was fatally struck by a vehicle, leaving behind a deep void felt by those who knew and admired him. Just as he spent his life, Coddou's watch ended while serving others.
John Coddou, born in Houston on June 7, 1973, was a man of unwavering commitment and deep-rooted dedication. His career in law enforcement began in 2003 as a detention officer. Due to his relentless commitment as a public servant, Coddou rose through the ranks, becoming a deputy in 2005 and subsequently serving in the Violent Crimes Unit as a Crimes Against Persons Investigator.
A graduate of Bellaire High School and a military veteran who served in the U.S. Army, Coddou had an innate desire to serve his community which continued even after his time in the military ended. “Deputy Coddou was very well liked. Everyone that I’ve talked to who knew him well said that it’s not surprising that he stopped to help,” said Harris County Sheriff Ed Gonzalez, highlighting John's dedication to service and his impact on the community.
Aside from his phenomenal career, Coddou was also a loving husband and family man. Coddou and his wife, Kathleen were married for 11 years, and she fondly remembers his love for cooking and his ability to express his love through thoughtful gifts and acts of kindness. Kathleen's family felt fortunate to have gained a son in John, and he was equally dedicated to them as he was to his own family.
John's capacity for compassion was evident in his personal and professional life. He had the enthusiasm for giving and a talent for making connections which, according to his wife, resulted in "many lifelong friends and lasting memories."
News of John's passing resonated far and wide, with agencies from across the Greater Houston Area and beyond extending their condolences and support. His wife Kathleen shared on social media, “The honor, respect, love, prayers, and support for John overflows in abundance."
The Harris County Sheriff's Office, mourning the loss of their beloved teammate and friend, stated, "Our hearts go out to Deputy Coddou's wife, family, friends, and fellow deputies. Their loss is immeasurable, and we share in their grief during this incredibly difficult time."
The funeral service for Deputy John Coddou will be held at 1:00 p.m., on Wednesday, May 1, 2024, at the Second Baptist Church - West Campus, located at 19449 Katy Fwy, Houston, TX 77094. The community will bid farewell to a cherished public servant, husband, and friend with full police honors following the service.
In remembrance of Deputy Investigator John H. Coddou, we honor his legacy of service, sacrifice, and the profound impact he made on the Harris County Sheriff's Office and the community he served with distinction. As the community mourns his untimely passing, we also celebrate a life truly well-lived.