DILLON COUNTY, S.C. (WBTW) — Tributes have been pouring in since the unexpected death of Dillon County Sheriff Douglas “Humbunny” Pernell Monday night.

Dillon County Coroner Donnie Grimsley told News13 that Pernell, 61, died at his home, though a cause of death was not immediately available. The sheriff’s body was brought to Grand Strand Regional Medical Center overnight and then returned early Tuesday morning to the Bartell Funeral Home in Dillon.

Pernell’s office announced his death in a Facebook post shortly after 11 p. m. Monday night.

“It is with heavy hearts we announce the unexpected passing of our Sheriff, Douglas Pernell,” the post said. “Please keep the family of Sheriff Douglas Pernell and the staff of the Dillon County Sheriff’s Office in your prayers.”

News13 just spoke with Pernell last week, when he spoke out after a deadly shooting at a Dillon County nightclub. He served as the county’s sheriff for the past three years and as a chief deputy for seven years.

Dillon Mayor Tally McColl released a statement following Pernell’s death.

“The city of Dillon as well as the entire county grieves the loss of our Sheriff Douglas Pernell,” McColl said. “Our most sincere condolences go out to Cynthia and the family. Our hearts and prayers are with you.”

Officials from other counties offered their condolences for Pernell and his family.

“Our prayers are with the Dillon County Sheriff’s Office and the friends and family of Sheriff Pernell as we mourn his loss,” South Carolina Gov. Henry McMaster said in a tweet.

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“Saddened to hear of the sudden passing of Sheriff Douglas Pernell last night,” South Carolina Sen. Tim Scott said in a tweet. “My heart goes out to his family, friends, and community in their time of grief.”

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“On behalf of Dillon County Council our hearts were saddened last night on hearing about the death of Sheriff Douglas Pernell,” Dillon County Council chair Stevie Grice said in a statement. “Not only did we lose a great Sheriff but we lost a dear friend. Sheriff Pernell loved Dillon County and the residents of the County. He strongly supported his staff and fought hard for them. Our sincere condolences go out to his wife Cynthia, the family and the staff at the Dillon County Sheriff’s Office and Detention Center. We pray and will continue to pray for them.”

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“Adequate words do not exist to convey my feelings about the loss of my friend and fellow sheriff,” Marion County Sheriff J. Brian Wallace said in a Facebook post. “His love for Dillon County was unrivaled. That love is what made him such a phenomenal sheriff. This is a tragic, unexpected loss for his family, his department, Dillon County, and the entire state of South Carolina. In the coming hours and days, I ask that you cover Dillon County in prayer.”

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“On behalf of the Robeson County Sheriff’s Office, we offer our sincere condolences to the family, friends, citizens and staff of Dillon County Sheriff Douglas Pernell as he unexpectedly passed away on Monday.”

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“Our sincere condolences are extended to Cynthia and the entire family of Sheriff Douglas ‘Humbunny’ Pernell,” Darlington County Coroner Todd Hardee said on Facebook. “Sheriff Pernell served the people of Dillon County well for many years. May the Lord bless you now, and forever more.”

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“Sheriff Carter Weaver and the Georgetown County Sheriff’s Office send condolences to the Dillon County Sheriff’s Office and the family of Sheriff Douglas Pernell.”

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“Our hearts are with the family of Sheriff Douglas Pernell and the staff of the Dillon County Sheriff’s Office as we mourn his passing, the Florence Police Department said on Facebook.

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“The Hartsville Police Department SC offers our sincere condolences to the family, friends, citizens, and staff of Dillon County Sheriff Douglas Pernell in his unexpected passing.”

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“Please join us in prayer for Sheriff Pernell’s family, his deputies & staff, and our entire county,” the Latta Police Department said on Facebook. “Our sincere condolences go out to all. Rest easy Sheriff, we’ll hold the line.”

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“The Marion Police Department would like to offer its deepest condolences to all of Dillon County and the Dillon County Sheriff’s Department. Sheriff Douglas “Humbunny” Pernell had a love for Dillon County like no other. He loved what he did, and he did it well. He was a friend to us all and will be greatly missed.”

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“Sheriff McNeil and the entire Marlboro County Sheriff’s Office would like to offer our deepest condolences to the family, Department and Dillon County as a whole for the loss of such a great man.

Sheriff Pernell policed for all people and truly cared for the community of Dillon County. It has been an honor to have served alongside Sheriff Douglas “Humbunny” Pernell.

May you all find as much peace as possible in this time of great sorrow.”

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“The Mullins Police Department sends our condolences to the Pernell’s family and the Dillion County Sheriff’s Office. Rest in peace Sheriff.”