Log in | Sign Up

Former Alton Police Chief Don Lovell Dies at 85

Present Chief Jarrett Ford shared remarks from officers who worked under Lovell, highlighting the respect he earned throughout his Alton career.

Save Share
Listen to the story

Don Lovell.

ALTON — Don Lovell, who served 30 years with the Alton Police Department as a chief and officer, died Aug. 20, 2026, in Jerseyville. He was 85.

Get The Latest News!

Don't miss our top stories and need-to-know news everyday in your inbox.

Sign in to hide this notification.

Alton Police Chief Jarrett Ford said he had not had the pleasure of meeting Lovell personally, but shared comments from officers who worked with him.

Article continues after sponsor message
Learn about our advertising opportunities!

“In speaking with the police officers who worked for him, they all said he was a great man and did a good job as chief,” current Alton Police Chief Ford said.

“The common theme from them about him was that he was respected and fair to everyone,” Ford said.

Lovell is survived by his wife, Deborah, and many others. It was stated that his family "meant everything to him."

Visitation for Lovell is scheduled from 4 to 7 p.m. Tuesday, Aug. 25, at Elias, Kallal and Schaaf Funeral Home in Godfrey. The funeral is at 10 a.m. on Wednesday, Aug. 26, 2026, at Elias, Kallal, Schaaf Funeral Home in Godfrey.

Prefer RiverBender on Google
Copyright 2026 Riverbender.com. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed.

More like this:

Former Chief Lovell's 'Service To The Alton Police Department and The People of Alton Will Not Be Forgotten'
Today
East Alton, Region, Mourns Cayden Schaaf After Monroe Street Fire
2 days ago
Belleville Mourns Death Of Police Chief Matthew Eiskant
Yesterday
Two Alton Men Charged In Child Sexual Abuse Investigation
Aug 6, 2026
24-Year-Old Dies In Early Sunday, Aug. 9, 2026, Crash
Aug 10, 2026