Holly MatkinMaggie Valley, NC – Haywood County Sheriff’s Office (HCSO) Deputy Brennan Clay Mehaffey died of natural causes on Aug. 24, according to his family.
The 36-year-old officer’s exact cause of death was not immediately released.
Deputy Mehaffey’s life as a public servant began when he joined the Maggie Valley Fire and Rescue at the age of 16, according to his obituary.
He graduated from Tuscola High School in 2004, and went on to receive an associate’s degree in building construction management and a certificate in basic law enforcement training.
Deputy Mehaffey joined the Maggie Valley Police Department (MVPD) in 2007, and was later hired by the HCSO in 2018.
“There is a comradery among law enforcement officers that is very strong,” his obituary read. “This was very evident in the relationships Brennan had with his fellow officers. He was well loved and respected by his fellow law enforcement officers, EMS workers, and dispatchers.”
Deputy Mehaffey “had a servant’s heart,” according to the tribute. “He was a giving person and never expected anything in return.”
Hundreds of people offered their condolences in response to a Facebook post the HCSO made announcing the young deputy’s death.
“Deepest condolences to all who knew and loved him. I pray that your memories will bring you some small measure of comfort as well as the knowledge that you don’t grieve alone,” one message read. “Rest easy hero; we got it from here. We got your 6.”
“R.I.P. Brennan fellow brother in uniform,” another person wrote. “You were a kind soul, thank you for all of your dedication. It was an honor to run a few calls with you!”
Deputy Mehaffey leaves behind his parents, Carroll and Nancie, as well as his uncles, aunts and many cousins.
He was laid to rest on Aug. 28.
Our thoughts and prayers are with the families of Haywood County Sheriff’s Office Deputy Brennan Clay Mehaffey, both blood and blue. Thank you for your service.
Rest easy, hero. We’ll hold the line from here.
Sandy Malone
