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By JOYANNA LOVE/Managing Editor

Long-time investigator Jeff Cobb of Thorsby lost his short battle with cancer on Oct. 14.

He had been diagnosed with pancreatic cancer that spread to his liver in August.

Cobb had worked for the 19th Judicial Circuit District Attorney’s office since 2015, following nearly 15 years with the Chilton County Sheriff’s Office.

Local law enforcement agencies have taken to social media expressing how much he meant to them and how he will be missed.

Chief Deputy District Attorney C.J. Robinson said there are plans to honor Cobb’s memory by creating a service award in his name.

“Jeff has certainly made a lasting impression upon me,” Robinson said. “The amount of dedication that he gave the District Attorney’s office will never be forgotten.”

The Jeff Cobb Award for Character and Excellence will be presented to an employee that “demonstrates exemplary character while excelling at their duties.”

“This December will be the first time we give that award,” Robinson said.

Sheriff John Shearon said Cobb was “a gentle giant.” Shearon referred to Cobb as a good officer and investigator, but an even better friend.

“One of the best friends a man could have,” Shearon said. “… He will definitely be sorely missed.”

When Robinson first met Cobb, he was doing sex crimes investigations for the Sheriff’s Office. He said they developed a close friendship while working these difficult cases. Shearon said while working these cases, Cobb was able to help the children relax.

“When I think about Jeff, he had the experience, he had the street credibility he had the integrity, everything that you would want someone in your organization to represent, he had those qualities,” Robison said. “He was a family man. He was a man of faith.”

Cobb also worked closely with the staff at Butterfly Bridge Children’s Advocacy Center.

“Jeff was the most caring, diligent investigator who fought hard for justice for these children. He loved and respected the mission and the staff … He’d tell me, ‘you interview these babies and help them get better, and I’ll take care of the rest,’” Jana Zuelzke, Butterfly Bridge executive director, said in a Facebook post. “He was always on top of his cases and knew how important it was to do the very best he could as quickly as he could for these families.”

Robinson said he was a true servant who “really invested himself into people.”

Cobb was also active in helping the community outside of work.

“He cared more about people than almost anybody I have ever met,” Robinson said.

According to his obituary, Jeff Cobb’s funeral will be Oct. 17 at 2 p.m. at First United Methodist Church Activity Center. On Oct. 16, the family will receive friends from 5:30-8 p.m. at the First United Methodist Church Activity Center.