Jovian Motley was born to two loving parents, Edward and Tammica Motley, on October 14, 1996. He and his sister, Iyanna, grew up in Houston, Texas, with the church being a big part of their lives.

Jovian was a part of the mime team, the choir and played football in high school. He was described as a high spirited man who loved his family and his community. “JJ”, as his family affectionately referred to him, was excited to be a part of the Texas Department of Criminal Justice as a Correctional Officer. He felt passionate about his role in mentoring and changing the lives of those in the prison system.

On November 13, 2023, Correctional Officer Jovian Motley did not come home from his shift at the Wainwright Unit.  Jovian was the fourth man in a five-man team attempting to restrain an inmate and lost his life that day.

On Saturday, December  2, his family laid him to rest. Honor Guard Teams from all regions of TDCJ and the nation joined together with CPOF’s National Honor Guard Team to pay their respects to this Correctional Officer who lost his life trying to make a difference in this world.  In addition to the CPOF National Honor Guard Team, the CPOF Board of Directors were represented by Vice-Chairman Don Dease and National Directors William Hutto and Jeffrey Washington. Thank you to all for representing CPOF staff and supporting membership.

Please join us in keeping Officer Motley’s family, friends and department in our thoughts and prayers.