In Memoriam: Col. Joe Milner

Published on January 10, 2024

We are sad to announce that Colonel Joe E. Milner, 93, retired Director of The Texas Department of Public Safety and Chief of The Texas Rangers died on National Law Enforcement Appreciation Day, January 9, 2024.

Milner was born on December 13, 1931. Colonel Milner began his career with DPS on October 11, 1954, and was quickly promoted through the ranks. He was stationed in Edna, Conroe, Lufkin, Harlingen, and Houston. In 1987, he was promoted to Assistant Director, and in 1988, he was appointed Director of the Texas Department of Public Safety and Chief of The Texas Rangers. He retired from DPS in August 1991.