A Johnston County deputy died suddenly at his home on Tuesday in Clayton.
Deputy Roger Benson, 70, was working in his yard on Ellington Street when he was found dead, his sister said.
Benson worked part-time with the sheriff's office with the restricted duties of serving papers. He was also a former firefighter in Clayton.
A Clayton police officer said that, while Benson had retired, he "couldn't stay away from (his work)" and returned to law enforcement twice.
Benson was well-liked by all who knew him, neighbors and friends said.