The Correctional Peace Officers Foundation (CPOF) recently provided Catastrophic Assistance to Correctional Officer Caraday Ivy of Oklahoma State Penitentiary following the heartbreaking loss of his infant son, Kyzeer.

Officer Ivy had only recently begun his career with the Oklahoma Department of Corrections when tragedy struck his family. On September 6, 2026, his young son, Kyzeer, unexpectedly passed away in his sleep.

The loss of a child is something no parent should ever have to endure. For Officer Ivy, what should have been an exciting new chapter in his professional life was suddenly overshadowed by unimaginable grief.

During this difficult time, CPOF was honored to extend a helping hand through its Catastrophic Assistance Program, providing financial assistance to help ease some of the burdens facing Officer Ivy and his family.

CPOF Representative Debbie Moore recently joined Oklahoma State Penitentiary Chief of Security Donald Thurmond to present Officer Ivy with a Catastrophic Assistance check.

The presentation served as a reminder that the correctional community is more than a workplace. It is a family of professionals who understand the importance of standing beside one another, especially during life’s most difficult moments.

Debbie shared that Officer Ivy was deeply appreciative of the assistance and expressed an interest in becoming a CPOF Supporting Member when he is in a better financial position to do so.

His gratitude reflects the meaningful impact that even a small measure of support can have during an overwhelming time.

Since 1984, CPOF has been committed to Taking Care of Our Own, providing assistance to correctional professionals and their families facing catastrophic circumstances, including the loss of loved ones. Through the generosity of Supporting Members, the Foundation is able to offer compassion and financial relief when families need it most.

Although no amount of assistance can ease the heartbreak of losing a child, CPOF hopes that this gesture provides Officer Ivy and his family with some comfort in knowing they are not facing their grief alone.

Our hearts remain with Officer Ivy and his family as they mourn the loss of precious Kyzeer.

May Kyzeer’s memory forever be a blessing, and may his family find strength in the love and support surrounding them.

Pictured, left to right: Oklahoma State Penitentiary Chief of Security Donald Thurmond, Correctional Officer Caraday Ivy, and CPOF Representative Debbie Moore during the presentation of Catastrophic Assistance.