TOMPKINSVILLE, Ky. — The Monroe County Sheriff’s Office is mourning the loss of Sheriff Dale “Frog” Ford, describing him as a lifelong public servant, mentor and friend whose impact on both the department and the community will not be forgotten.

Ford, who was first elected as the sheriff in 2014, spent much of his life in law enforcement and was widely recognized for his approachable nature and dedication to helping others.

“Frog never met a stranger and was a friend to everyone,” the department said in a statement. “He went above and beyond on a daily basis to protect and serve our community and to help anyone who was in need no matter what the situation was.”

Colleagues also remembered Ford as a mentor and close friend within the department.

“Not only was he the sheriff, he was a mentor, a friend, a brother, but most importantly he was family,” the statement continued. “We are all devastated and heartbroken for the fact that he has passed on, but we will always keep in memory of all the times that we have shared together.”

The department extended condolences to Ford’s family and asked the community to keep both his loved ones and fellow law enforcement officers in their thoughts.

“At this time we as a department would like to express our deepest condolences to the family as you all are in our thoughts and prayers,” the statement said. “We ask that you also keep our work family in your thoughts and prayers as well.”

The tribute concluded with a final message: “Rest easy 320 Sheriff Dale ‘Frog’ Ford. We have it from here.”

Funeral arrangements had not been announced as of Saturday evening.