Published on February 6, 2026 11:07 am
Last Updated on February 6, 2026 12:07 pm
(EFFINGHAM COUNTY CORONER KIM RHODES IS FLANKED BY DEPUTY CORONERS JOEL DETERS AND LAUREN HEUERMAN)
A new location was the highlight for the Effingham County Coroner’s Office in 2025.
The County Board voted July 10 to purchase the former Pet Feed Store at 207 West St. Anthony Avenue. Coroner Kim Rhodes said it’s a great location, with three offices, a conference room and a viewing room where families can meet. The facility has a drive-through garage that provides privacy and security for handling, transporting, and temporary holding in the morgue. The morgue can hold 13 and up to 20 if needed in an emergency situation.
As to the numbers, there were 385 deaths in Effingham County during 2025, 33 more than in 2024, but 14 fewer than in 2023.
There were four motor vehicle fatalities during the year and seven other accidental deaths. The county was the scene of eight fatal drug overdoses during the year, but no fentanyl deaths.
