BILOXI, MS. (THECOUNT) — Former long-time coroner for Harrison County, Gary Hargrove, has passed away, according to Saturday morning reports.

Hargrove, whose age was not provided, died after battling an undisclosed illness.

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According to WLOX, Hargrove served 24 years as coroner and almost a year ago, he decided to retire to spend more time with his loved ones.

Throughout his career, he worked diligently around the clock. Day or night, he headed swiftly to the scene and investigated the cause of death or confirmed an unknown person’s identity. He was there, and for over two decades, Harrison County relied on his expertise.

Among the cases that stood out in Hargrove’s career, Hurricane Katrina was a definite contender. According to Hargrove in a previous interview, ninety-seven people were found dead in Harrison County, and they were able to identify all but two by the end of December.

DEVELOPING::

Geo quick facts: Biloxi is a Mississippi city on the Gulf of Mexico. It’s known for its casinos. Biloxi Lighthouse stands next to Biloxi Beach on the Mississippi Sound. The Maritime and Seafood Industry Museum offers exhibits on boatbuilding and seafood-processing. The Beauvoir estate and Jefferson Davis Presidential Library explore the life of the Confederate leader. Offshore, Deer Island shelters pelicans and loggerhead turtles – wikipedia.