Jones County Commissioners canceled their virtual meeting Monday afternoon as word that beloved Jones County Sheriff Danny Heath passed away. Heath was elected in 2010.

Jones County posted this message on Facebook. “Please keep the Heath Family and all our many dedicated and loyal Sheriff’s Office employees in your thoughts and prayers this evening. Such a big loss to our County and our community. Sheriff Danny R. Heath. You will be missed.”

Congressman Greg Murphy, M.D. had the privilege of working closely alongside Sheriff Heath on numerous occasions and wants to do everything he can to honor Sheriff Heath’s memory.

Lenoir County Sheriff Ronnie Ingram would like to express his condolences to the family of Jones County Sheriff Danny Heath, the dedicated employees of the Jones County Sheriff’s Office and the residents of Jones County for the loss of their beloved Sheriff.

“Sheriff Heath was a dedicated servant to the citizens of Jones County for many years," Sheriff Ingram said. "His love for Jones County showed through every day he was working. We are saddened by his loss and will be praying for his family and employees.”

Neuse News confirmed his passing with two Jones County officials and are working to gather more details. This is a developing story.