Piedmont, AL – Piedmont Police Department Officer Kevin Blue passed away on Oct. 27, following a battle with an inoperable form of brain cancer.

Officer Blue, 51, was diagnosed with Stage IV glioblastoma in July, after he began experiencing memory problems, The Birmingham News reported.

When the six-year department veteran was given six months to live, his community, fellow officers, and area law enforcement foundations immediately rallied around him.

“He is fighting so that he can see his 9-month-old grandson put on cleats one day,” his sister, Kalicia Todd, told the paper in late July.

Officer Blue passed away at his home, surrounded by his friends and family, according to his obituary.

“It is with deep regret that we inform you of the passing of Officer Kevin Blue this morning after his hard fought battle with cancer,” the Piedmont Police Department said in a Facebook post. “This is a tremendous loss not only to Kevin’s family but to every member of the Piedmont Police Department.”

“The City of Piedmont is a safer and better city because of Kevin’s honorable service to its citizens,” the department continued. “Please keep Kevin’s family both blood and blue in your thoughts and prayers.”

In a Facebook post, Piedmont City Council Member Bill Baker described Officer Blue as “an exceptional police officer” who was a “wonderful person and friend to many.”

“He was that kind of guy – caring, kind, committed, approachable…He was a great hire and did his job well,” Baker said. “We lost a great man…There’s an old saying that as long as you have memories no one ever dies. If this is the case, Kevin Blue will live forever.”

Prior to joining the police department, Officer Blue worked for the county’s road department and also spent time as a power company employee, according to his obituary.

“He calmly, yet professionally, fulfilled his duties as an officer,” his obituary read. “He was one that was loved by many and respected by the community.”

Many community members expressed their adoration for Officer Blue in the wake of his death.

“The impact you made on my little boy’s life will forever be one of the greatest things anyone could ever do,” Danielle Fair wrote in a Facebook post. “Your drive and love for the youth of this town was untouchable and incomparable to any officer I’ve ever met. You truly cared about us all. We are forever grateful for your impact on this town…We love you Blue!”

Scott Geoffrion recalled the high level of professionalism Officer Blue exhibited in the line of duty.

“I am not easily impressed, but Kevin Blue was one of the finest police officers and human beings that I have EVER seen or worked with,” Geoffrion wrote in a Facebook post. “The world is a better place because of Kevin Blue and those like him.”

“Even those he arrested liked him,” he said. “Kevin, you are a hero. Carry On Brother – We’ve got it from here.”

In a Facebook post, Monica Kelley recalled Officer Blue’s “kind words and ways,” and said he became “dear to us all.”

“Officer Kevin Blue you will be missed dearly and I’m so lucky to have been able to call you my friend,” Kelley wrote.

Officer Blue leaves behind his daughter, Arika, and his grandson, Race, according to his obituary.

He will be laid to rest on Friday.

Our thoughts and prayers are with the family of Piedmont Police Department Officer Kevin Blue, both blood and blue. Thank you for your service.

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