By DONNA THORNTON, Editor
Marshall County Coroner Cody Nugent announced on the office’s Facebook page Wednesday morning that he will not seek re-election to the office he’s held since 2019.
“It is with great thought and consideration that I have made the decision not to seek re-election as Marshall County Coroner in 2026,” he posted. “I do not take this decision lightly as I have deep commitment and love in serving the people of this county and appreciate the confidence you. Have placed in me during the past two terms. My wife, 11-year-old son, and a 4-year-old daughter deserve more attention than I can provide them with my current responsibilities.”
On Tuesday, Nugent posted on his personal Facebook page that he had taken down the Marshall County Coroner’s Office page, and he notes criticism of the office.
“Due to continued lack of understanding of the duties of the Coroner’s Office, and a group (of) county employees who continue to belittle the services of the Coroner’s Office platforms and those who serve in it, I have made the decision to shutdown the page,” Nugent posted.
“The most recent comments by the administrative assistant to one of our county commissioners stated that we (the county) should have the staff from the Marshall County Animal Control come and show the Coroner’s Office how to operate efficiently,” Nugent posted, noting that at the time, coroner’s office investigators were in the process of assisting the family of a child who died after an ATV accident.
“However, these individuals who continually criticize the office myself and each of the investigators in it have worked tireless with the last seven years could never do the job,” he continued. “I have sacrificed time away from my family and church all in service to the families who are experiencing life’s most devastating moments and are seeking answers. All while facing criticism when only attempting to serve the citizens of Marshall County who elected me to do so. I do it because the citizens of Marshall County have elected me to use my experience and ability to serve them.
“Those who decide to criticize will NEVER be able to do what the officials of the Marshall County Coroner’s Office must do on a day-to-day basis,” he posted, the day before announcing he will not run for the office in 2026.
“I have had the honor to investigate and provide answers to over 2,000 families since 2019 as Coroner and have been able to assist more than 5,600 families in some capacity as Coroner,” he said in the announcement Wednesday. “I am proud of the advancements that have been made within the Marshall County Coroner’s Office since 2019, which has eased the additional responsibilities of this office due to our population and healthcare growth. These advancements include a free-standing facility, electronic records systems, a vehicle, expanded cooler space, examination room, compensation for Deputy Coroners, and advancements in investigative techniques and practices. Many of these advancements are not known to most citizens, however, in the event they are ever needed to. Provide answers for families they will prove invaluable.”
Nugent said in the announcement he is leaving office to focus more on his family, church, and career, that he will continue to serve the community with the same high level of service until his departure from office in January 2027, that he is grateful for the trust the county place in him, and that he looks forward to continuing to help move Marshall County forward as a citizen.
Marshall County Coroner Cody Nugent announced on the office’s Facebook page Wednesday morning that he will not seek re-election to the office he’s held since 2019. Screenshot l Facebook
