Wheaton, IL – DuPage County Sheriff’s Deputy Eddie Jackson died on Oct. 25, following a battle with cancer, according to his department.

Deputy Jackson, 64, served the department for nearly 20 years as a patrol deputy, detective, and township deputy, the Daily Herald reported.

“His smile is going to be missed in a big way around here,” DuPage County Undersheriff Frank Bibbiano told the news outlet.

“It is with deep regret that we inform you of the passing of Deputy Eddie Jackson last evening after his hard-fought battle with cancer,” the sheriff’s office said in a Facebook post.

“We extend our hearts and prayers to the Jackson family,” the agency said. “This is a tremendous loss not only to Eddie’s family, but to every member of the DuPage County Sheriff’s Office, and to the people of DuPage County he so honorably served.”

In October of 2016, the sheriff’s office featured Deputy Jackson on their Facebook page, as he explained why he chose to “wear the badge.”

“I wear this badge because it represents guidance, community and positivity,” the veteran deputy wrote. “I spend every day patrolling my neighborhoods working to enlighten the public and give guidance to those who need assistance.”

Deputy Jackson understood the importance of building positive relationships with the community he served.

“I strive to project a positive image in my community and I receive a great response by the citizens because I am a genuine person who truly wants to help others,” he wrote.

Although his career was “very demanding” at times, Deputy Jackson said he felt “blessed to have this wonderful job.”

“I will continue to change the perception of Law Enforcement in the community with positive interaction and being a role model,” he wrote.

Deputy Jackson leaves behind his “loving companion,” Justina Bogan, as well as his siblings and many friends and extended family members, according to his obituary.

He will be laid to rest on Saturday.

Our thoughts and prayers are with the family of DuPage County Sheriff’s Deputy Eddie Jackson, both blood and blue. Thank you for your service.

Rest easy, hero. We’ll hold the line from here.