John A. Rodriguez, who worked for the Tarrant County Sheriff’s Office for 15 years, died following a battle with an illness, officials said.
TARRANT COUNTY, Texas — Friends and colleagues are mourning a Tarrant County Sheriff’s Deputy who died after an illness, officials said in a social media post.
John A. Rodriguez, who served Tarrant County for 15 years, joined the Tarrant County Sheriff’s Office after retiring from the US Navy and first worked as a detention officer before becoming a deputy sheriff assigned to the patrol division, the Tarrant County Sheriff’s Office said in a social media post.
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Within his division, he was known for his warm nature and kindness, qualities that earned him the nickname “Papa,” the sheriff’s office said.
“His ability to make others feel supported and valued was one of his greatest gifts. His warmth and generous heart were felt by everyone who had the privilege of knowing him,” the post reads.
A GoFundMe created to support Rodriguez’s family has already reached its goal.
“John dedicated his life to serving others and protecting his community,” the GoFundMe reads. “To those who knew him, he was much more than a deputy—he was a friend, a coworker, a husband, a father, and someone who made a lasting difference in the lives of those around him.”