GREENSBORO, N.C. — The Guilford County Sheriff’s Office, based in Greensboro, said Monday that Jeffrey Routh, a 69-year-old part-time deputy, has died suddenly. Routh had been on the force as a part-time deputy since 2019.
He served District 1, covering Oak Ridge, Summerfield, Stokesdale, Browns Summit, unincorporated parts of Colfax and some neighborhoods outside Greensboro city limits. Those northern and western Guilford County communities rely on sheriff’s deputies for patrol, since much of the district sits outside municipal police coverage.
In its statement, the sheriff’s office described Routh as having a giving spirit, always willing to lend a helping hand and volunteering to work extra shifts. The agency said he was so dependable that he was given a take-home patrol vehicle, something part-time deputies do not normally receive. It noted he often ended up with one of the oldest vehicles in the fleet but took it home, washed it, waxed it and cared for it as if it were brand new, one of the ways he showed pride in serving the community.
The office said that although his time with Team Guilford began later in life, those around him will never forget the impact he made. Routh leaves behind a wife and family. There was no word yet on the cause of death or on memorial arrangements.
The Guilford County Sheriff’s Office is led by Danny Rogers, who has served as Guilford County Sheriff since 2018 and is seeking a third term in the November 2026 general election against Republican challenger Phil Byrd. Updates on arrangements are expected to come from the sheriff’s office.
