The Correctional Peace Officers Foundation (CPOF) recently provided Catastrophic Assistance to Tanya Curl-McGuckin following the unexpected passing of her husband, Major Jamie Brian McGuckin, of the Oklahoma County Detention Center.
Major McGuckin passed away on July 30, 2026, at the age of 48 due to medical complications. His passing came just two days before he would have celebrated 15 years of dedicated service with the Oklahoma County Detention Center.
For nearly 15 years, Jamie served his correctional community with integrity, compassion, and an unwavering commitment to those around him. Beginning his career as a Detention Officer with the Oklahoma County Sheriff’s Office, he advanced through the ranks to become a Major, earning the respect of colleagues through his leadership, work ethic, and willingness to help others.
His commitment to service began long before his correctional career.
A proud military veteran, Jamie served 18 years in the United States Army Reserve, including a deployment to Taji, Iraq, in support of Operation Iraqi Freedom from 2004 to 2005. He also served with the Army Honor Guard, paying tribute to fellow service members with dignity and respect.
That dedication to honoring others continued throughout his correctional career, where he proudly served as a member of the Oklahoma Department of Corrections Honor Guard.
Jamie believed in continually strengthening his skills and knowledge. In 2016, he earned an associate degree and CLEET certification through Oklahoma State University–Oklahoma City. His investigative abilities and professional accomplishments also earned him a commission through the Oklahoma County District Attorney’s Office.
Beyond his distinguished career, Jamie was a man of remarkable interests and talents.
He enjoyed sports, golf, martial arts, gaming, and spending time outdoors. An avid fan of football, hockey, and soccer, he enthusiastically supported his favorite teams. He also had a creative side, serving eight years on the board of Stage Door Theatre in Yukon, Oklahoma, occasionally performing onstage and earning recognition for his artwork at the Oklahoma State Fair.
Those closest to Jamie knew him for his warmth, humor, generosity, and genuine kindness. Whether mentoring a coworker, supporting a friend, or sharing time with family, he had a lasting impact on the people around him.
Above all, Jamie treasured his family, including his beloved wife, Tanya, and daughters, Heather Renee McGuckin and Rachel Leah Curl.
Following his passing, CPOF was honored to provide Catastrophic Assistance to Tanya, offering financial support during an incredibly difficult time.
CPOF Representative Debbie Moore met with Tanya to present the assistance check, extending the compassion and support of the Foundation’s nationwide correctional family.
While no amount of financial assistance can replace a loved one, CPOF hopes to help ease some of the unexpected burdens families face following a devastating loss.
Since 1984, the Correctional Peace Officers Foundation has remained committed to Taking Care of Our Own, standing beside correctional professionals and their families through catastrophic circumstances, including bereavement, serious medical emergencies, and other unexpected hardships.
Major McGuckin’s life reflected the very values that unite the correctional profession: service, sacrifice, leadership, and compassion.
His colleagues at the Oklahoma County Detention Center remembered him as a leader who gave everything he had to the organization, always willing to help a coworker, mentor a teammate, or serve those entrusted to his care.
The Correctional Peace Officers Foundation extends its deepest condolences to Tanya, their daughters, and the entire McGuckin family, as well as Jamie’s colleagues and friends.
Major Jamie McGuckin spent his life serving others. It is now our honor to stand beside the family he loved so dearly.
Pictured: Tanya Curl-McGuckin and CPOF Representative Debbie Moore during the presentation of Catastrophic Assistance following the passing of Major Jamie McGuckin.