The longest serving sheriff in Monroe County history has died.

Robert Harvey, "R.H." Johnson of Sweetwater died Tuesday leaving behind a legacy of firsts in Monroe County law enforcement. Johnson was the first sheriff to serve a four-year term and the first to win four consecutive elections, holding the office from 1978-1994.

Gregg Breeden, who is now the Madisonville Police Chief, started his career under Johnson at the Sheriff's Office in 1989.

"R. H. was a good sheriff to work for," Breeden said. "He was a super supportive boss, always stood behind his men, but his main concern was the taxpayers money. He wouldn't spend anything he didn't have to."

The family will receive friends from 5-9 p.m., Thursday, July 26, at Kyker's Funeral Home. Funeral services will be 1 p.m., Friday, July 27, at Notchey Creek Baptist Church. Burial will follow at Sweetwater Memorial Park.

See full story in the Wednesday, July 25, edition of The Advocate & Democrat.