Rockingham County Sheriff Michael Downing died Friday morning. He was 61.
Sheriff Downing passed away after period of declining health, the Union Leader reports.
New Hampshire Governor Maggie Hassan has ordered that flags be flown at half-staff on the day of his memorial service.
Also a veteran, former state trooper, Salem police officer and lawmaker in both the state's House and Senate, Downing is being remembered for his long career in public service.
"He will be profoundly missed by everyone in the Salem community and across the state, and his leadership, courage and character will continue to inspire us," Governor Hassan said in a statement.
"His work has had a tremendously positive impact on our state and his passing is an immense loss for the local community and state," Senate President Chuck Morse said, also in a statement.
