Joseph Michael Kujawa

Joseph Michael Kujawa

June 16, 1960 ~ October 21, 2026

Joseph Michael Kujawa, 66, of Jasper, Georgia, passed away October 21, 2026, after a brief illness. ‘Joe’ to his friends and family—was born on June 16, 1960, in Savannah, Georgia, to Jessie McElveen Kujawa and Raymond Paul Kujawa, both of whom have predeceased him.

After graduating from Robert W Groves High School in 1978, Joe worked as a manager with Hardees. Soon after, Joe decided to follow his heart and go into law enforcement. His first badge was with the Chatham County Sheriff’s Department, where he worked at the jail. Even then, Joe had the reputation of being fair and respectful with the inmates. On numerous occasions he would offer his wisdom and tell them that they had the opportunity to change their path in life but had to stop doing the things that landed them behind bars. Determined to become a Savannah Police Officer, on January 13, 1986, his dream became a reality.

As Joe rose quickly to the rank of Sergeant he was best known for his expertise in Mounted Police Operations. He loved the Mounted Horse Patrol. He excelled quickly and became a mentor, trainer, and consultant for Police Departments across the southeast. His love for all things equestrian extended to his home where he and his wife Debra had personal horses on their property. They loved long rides through the woods and logging trails around Bloomingdale and Pooler.

Joe spent many years in the Traffic Division working in multiple areas of traffic enforcement to include a different kind of mounted, on a Police Motorcycle.

Well respected by all, and known for his kindness, Joe’s last assignment was working as a liaison with the Chatham County Courts, where he was responsible for maintaining and coordinating court appearances and schedules for the Savannah Police Department. After serving for 28 years with the Savannah Police Department, he retired as Seargent in 2014.

While law enforcement may have been his career, helping others was undeniably his vocation.

As much as he loved his work, it was his faith and family which always came first. He married Debra Hobson Thomas in 1993. She had been widowed in 1986 and had a teenage daughter, Jennlauren. Their instant family celebrated 33 years of life, love, and adventure together in July.

Joe is survived by his wife, Debra, daughter, Jennlauren Schroder (Derrick), brother, Stephen Kujawa (Kathy), sister, Susan Kendryna (Gregg), grandchildren, Griffin Thomas, and Murphy Thomas-Reeves, nephews, Gary Smith, Jr. (Christie), Joshua Kendryna (Kaylie), and David Gates.

Joe's love and respect for his family, country, community, and fellow Law Enforcement Officers was obvious. While he picked up words and phrases in multiple languages, Joe became fluent in Spanish—which proved very useful both on and off the job!

Joe will be sadly missed. For many, that sadness will also come with a smile as we remember one of his frequent parting phrases:

“Forward, YO!”

Joe is now moving forward to the next pasture, riding ahead to clear the trail. Until we meet again.

Per his wishes, Joe was cremated. The family wishes to acknowledge Roper Funeral Home & Crematory, 206 Holly Street, Jasper, GA 30143 for their kindness and professionalism.

A memorial service is scheduled for Saturday, November 21, 2026, in Pooler, beginning with visitation at 1pm followed by the service at 2pm. All are welcome to attend.

Thomas C. Strickland and Sons Funeral Home

West Chatham Chapel

901 Highway 80 West

Pooler, GA 31322

In lieu of flowers, the family requests you consider donations to the 200 Club of the Coastal Empire, or the charity/organization of your choice.