MURFREESBORO, TN (WGNS) - The community is tipping its hat this week to Murfreesboro Police Officer Terry Spence, who is retiring after an incredible 40 years. Four decades is a long time to serve any community, but folks around here will tell you that Spence didn’t just serve Murfreesboro — he poured his heart into it. Photo Above and Below Article from WGNS Files: MPD Officer Terry Spence jokingly clears the finish line during a community event at the MTSU track in Murfreesboro (Scroll down to see larger image).

Officer Spence is one of those rare officers who managed to be both firm and friendly at the same time. WGNS listeners may remember that he was nominated several times for the WGNS–Demos’ Outstanding Officer award, often by parents whose teenagers had just been stopped for speeding. Those parents weren’t upset — they were grateful. They said Spence’s calm but serious conversations during those stops made a lasting impression on their kids. One listener wrote that her son “grew a lot in maturity that afternoon” after Spence handed him a ticket and then took the time to talk with him one‑on‑one.

Crash scenes were another place where Spence quietly shined. People who found themselves shaken, frustrated, or confused after a wreck often said he helped everyone calm down, understand what happened, and get through a stressful moment with dignity.

Another resident recalled seeing him again at the Middle Half Marathon, where he was high‑fiving runners and cheering them on — the same steady presence, just in a happier setting.

His career also included moments of extraordinary courage. A Christiana man is alive today because Officer Spence happened to be nearby when the man suffered a massive heart attack and crashed into a brick wall. Spence pulled him from the vehicle and immediately began CPR. That quick action saved a life.

He also cared deeply about community safety beyond patrol work. Spence often spoke about the importance of women’s self‑defense classes, especially after reflecting on a 2005 sexual assault case in Murfreesboro. He wanted people to feel empowered and prepared.

Over the years, Spence handled everything from parades and races to fugitives and theft cases. In one instance, he ran a routine check on a man and discovered he was a fugitive from justice. As the suspect was being taken to jail, he told Spence, “You ask too many questions.” Murfreesboro residents would probably say that’s exactly why they trusted him.

Officer Terry Spence leaves behind a legacy built on compassion, professionalism, and a big heart for the Heart of Tennessee. Congratulations on your retirement, Officer Spence — Murfreesboro is better because you were here.

Photo Below:  MPD Officer Terry Spence jokingly clears the finish line during a community event at the MTSU track in Murfreesboro.

Below: Photo of Officer Terry Spence with Mylikia Franklin from Franklin's Fruit Tea at a local event on the downtown square.