Randall County Sheriff's Office mourning loss of 2nd officer, Sgt. Goodner

The Randall County Sheriff's Office is mourning the loss of a second officer this week after a sergeant died Wednesday from an illness, the department announced Thursday.

"It is with great sadness that we announce the passing of Sergeant Gary Goodner on May 17 at approximately 7 pm," a news release from RCSO says about the officer, who died after battling an illness. "Sergeant Goodner was a dedicated member of our office who committed his career to safeguarding and serving our community. He gained the respect of all who knew him during his tenure with our office since 2014. At any opportunity, he would step up and help his colleagues — a true team player. Our deepest sympathies go out to his family and loved ones during this time of sorrow."

In addition, Randall County Sheriff Christopher Forbis expressed his condolences and high regards for Sgt. Goodner: "Gary always had a smile on his face and was the type of person that would step up to any challenge to help a brother or sister."

A GoFundMe page has been set up for the family at https://gofund.me/5a85cfa5.

A Randall County deputy sergeant died Sunday as a result of a crash in South Amarillo.

As previously reported, with the loss of off-duty Randall County Deputy Sgt. Jay Claxton in a crash while working on his boat, Forbis said Monday's wreath-laying ceremony for Police Officer Memorial Day had even more impact on him. During the ceremony, Forbis mentioned his loss and asked for prayers for his family. Claxton was coming up on his 20-year mark with the department in July.

More: Amarillo area law enforcement honor fallen officers

“It is a tough day for us in our department,” Forbis said. “Sgt. Claxton was such a good man. He was an integral part of our agency. He will be missed. Sudden things like this are really hard.”

This article originally appeared on Amarillo Globe-News: Randall County Sgt. Goodner dies, sheriff's office announces