Former Erie County Sheriff Thomas Higgins has died at age 88.
After a 21 year career on the Buffalo Police force, Higgins became Undersheriff and was elected Sheriff in 1984 . He served four terms until 1997.
Information on his death was not immediately available. He was said to be in relatively good health, and in 2013 he celebrated his 83 birthday by going skydiving, according to the Bufalo News
"Thomas Higgins will be remembered for his dedication to public service. He served his country as an honorable Marine, his city as a police officer and his community as Erie County Sheriff," said current Erie County Sheriff Tim Howard in a prepared statement.
"Today and in the days to come, this office,this community and his family will mourn Sheriff Higgins' pasing and honor his service and memory," the statement said.
Higgins began his tour of duty as a US Marine in 1951, and served in the 1st Marine Division, 11th regiment during the Korean War. After service he earned degrees from both SUNY Buffalo State and The University at Buffalo before launching a career with the Buffalo Police Department.
Erie County Executive Mark Poloncarz called Higgins "a good man who will be missed by many," and said in a prepared statement that over the years he consulted Higgins often on many county issues.
Poloncarz has directed flags at all county buildings be put at half staff in Higgins honor
I am saddened to learn of the passing of former @ErieCountyNY Sheriff Thomas Higgins. Sheriff Higgins served our country in Korea and community for decades. He was respected by all who knew him. My full statement on his passing is below. pic.twitter.com/HxHxNhVdTQ
— Mark Poloncarz (@markpoloncarz) June 27, 2018
"Sheriff Tom Higgins was among the most accomplished law enforcement professionals of his generation and an American patriot," said Congressman Brian Higgins, a close friend who despite sharing a last name was not related.
Sheriff Tom Higgins was among the most accomplished law enforcement professionals of his generation and an American patriot. He will be missed. pic.twitter.com/y49gWmUH3w
— Brian Higgins (@RepBrianHiggins) June 27, 2018
Higgins is predeceased by his wife Shirley and survived by 3 sons. Funeral arrangements were not immediately announced.