In Memory of Deputy Chief Jim "JJ" Jolliffe

Former BPD Deputy Chief Jim “JJ” Jolliffe passed away on Friday, September 10th, 2021, peacefully surrounded by his family and a lot of love. His wife Lisa, son Jimmy, and daughter Anna were with him. He was 58 years old.

For those fortunate to serve with and know our former Deputy Chief, JJ started his career in southern California with the Upland (CA) Police Department in 1984 before moving to the Orange Police Department in 1985. He lateraled to the Bellevue Police Department in 1991. He served our City and Department at every level with distinction before retiring in 2016 as Deputy Chief. JJ served in Patrol, K9, Investigations, SWAT, and Bombs. He worked as an officer, detective, supervisor, and commander. Deputy Chief Jolliffe did just about everything there is to do in the police profession.

Those who remember working with JJ, he was a giant of a man. JJ had a sharp wit and impish grin, but he commanded respect not only because of his skills and knowledge of the job but also for the authentic way he cared and showed affection to each of us in blue. He never lost touch with the thrill of the chase and catching bad guys. He always thought first of the line officers and the detectives who do “God’s work” every day. He kept all of them close to his heart. After retiring from the police department in 2018, JJ worked for the last three years as the Director of Security for the Kemper Development Company. JJ never gave up his guardian role. His passion in life was to keep his community and his fellow citizens safe.

JJ was a devoted family man to his wife Lisa of 33 years and they raised two remarkable young people in Jimmy and Anna. JJ made close friends everywhere he went and never met a stranger. He will be missed and impossible to replace.

In lieu of flowers and gifts, JJ’s family has requested donations be made in JJ’s Memory to the Bellevue Police Benevolent Association’s Scholarship fund. Since 2000, the Bellevue Police Department’s Benevolent Association had provided charitable benefits to their police members and families , which includes a yearly scholarship award. The Bellevue Police Department has a special place in JJ and his family’s hearts and would appreciate his legacy to live on.