'Deputy Bud' passes away from coronavirus

ASAM NEWS

A deputy in Montgomery County, North Carolina died of coronavirus this week one day after being hospitalized, reports WRAL.

Sypraseuth “Bud” Phouangphrachanh, 43, was a 14-year veteran of the Montgomery County Sheriff’s Department.

According to Sheriff Chris Watkins, Phouangphrachanh  had been suffering from allergy symptoms when he was admitted to the hospital on Monday. He passed away the next day.

Those that knew him called him Deputy Bud because of his work as a school resource officer.

A January 2019 Facebook post by Sheriff Chris Watkins said Phouangphrachanh was so well-liked at the school where he worked the students made Jan. 18, 2019, “Deputy Bud Day.” During that day, he wore a Superman shirt under his uniform.

“During his service to Montgomery County he filled many roles, but his passion was as a School Resource Officer where he worked with middle school and high school students,” said Montgomery County Sheriff Chris Watkins in a statement released to WSOC-TV. “His dedication to youth led him to attend DARE Instructor Training, which he loved and believed in as a tool to better his community. He was known for his big smile, sense of humor and laughter.“

“Bud was just somebody that everybody flocked to,” said Capt. Andre Garner to WRAL. “If Bud was around, you couldn’t have a frown on your face. He’s gonna make you smile.”

He is survived by his wife and five children.

A private graveside service by invitation only was held Friday (April 3).