By Peninsula Daily News services
EVERETT — Correctional Officer Jayme Biendl, found strangled in a prison chapel, was remembered at a memorial service Tuesday as a courageous and dedicated worker whose loss has devastated her family, friends and co-workers.
“There will forever be a void in my soul and in this department without Jayme,” Sgt. Jimmie Fletcher, a co-worker, told the several thousand mourners. “She made the ultimate sacrifice insuring the safety of us all.”
Biendl, 34, of Granite Falls, was killed Jan. 29 at the Monroe Correctional Complex, a state prison about 30 miles northeast of Seattle. Police say their prime suspect is Byron Scherf, a three-strikes offender serving a life sentence after two rape convictions.
Many of those present wiped away tears as an honor guard slowly brought Biendl’s flag-draped casket inside Everett’s Comcast Arena.
Hundreds of law enforcement officers in dress uniforms were among the mourners, as were Gov. Chris Gregoire and Corrections Secretary Eldon Vail.
Gregoire told family members that Biendl “commanded respect through her own integrity,” and asked friends and family to “have faith in one another” as they deal with their loss.
Vail said Biendl, a personable young woman who in 2008 was named Monroe’s correctional officer of the year, represents “the best of who we are.”
He praised the sense of duty of workers “who are in constant direct contact with some of the most troubled and dangerous people in our society.”
“There’s a real sense of fear, anxiety and grief from this tragic loss,” he added, “yet our staff members continue to come to work each day despite all these swirling emotions.”
Officials for the correctional officers’ union have questioned why Biendl, a nine-year veteran of the department, was alone after complaining to prison supervisors about being the only officer working in the chapel without anyone checking on her.
An internal investigation is under way and Gregoire has asked for an outside review by federal officials at the National Institute of Corrections.
“The tragic loss of Jayme Biendl must result in an honest public discussion of prison safety, a conversation that is overdue but much needed,” Vail said.
Biendl’s family was presented with the flag that covered her casket.
A bugler played taps, and a bagpiper “Amazing Grace” at the close of the service. Mourners saluted in silence as Biendl’s casket was escorted out.
