SOMERSET COUNTY, Pa (WJAC) — The Somerset Borough community is mourning the loss of one of its own after former police chief Randy Cox died last week following a battle with cancer.

Chief Cox began his law enforcement career in 1977 and has served the Somerset Borough Police Department for over twenty years.

Chief Cox was completely devoted to his career as, outside of his responsibilities as Chief, he was also the lead instructor at the Westmoreland County Community College Police Academy, an evaluator for the Pennsylvania Police Accreditation Commission, a member of the Chiefs Association of Police in Western PA, and president of the Somerset County Association of Chiefs of Police.

Chief Cox was passionate about educating new generations of officers and sharing his knowledge and experience gained throughout his 47-year law enforcement career.

Chief Cox let her know early retirement in April due to his battle for health.