The Lexington County Sheriff’s Department is mourning the death of two employees.

Both Gwen Morris, 50, and Blaine Newman, 60, died of covid-19, according to the sheriff’s department.

Morris’ death was reported on Aug. 27, and Newman died the following day, the sheriff’s department said.

“Everyone in the department is grieving after the loss of two co-workers to covid in two days,” Lexington County Sheriff Jay Koon said in a statement. “We’re thankful for the condolences, prayers and support we continue to receive from the community as we mourn our colleagues.”

Morris worked in the finance department for the sheriff. The Lexington High School graduate had worked for the sheriff’s department since 2016, after previously working for Lexington School District 1, according to her obituary.

Morris was to be buried Tuesday at St. Stephen’s Lutheran Church following a 2 pm funeral service.

“Please join us in praying for her family, and those who worked with Gwen, during this difficult time,” the sheriff’s department said.

Newman had worked for the sheriff’s department since 2010, most recently as a reserve deputy, where he volunteered many hours to serve his community.

“We will care for his family as they face tough days ahead,” the sheriff’s department said.

Newman’s funeral arrangements were not available.

The Officer Down Memorial Page reported that at least 120 law enforcement officers in the US have died of covid-19 in 2021. That is by far the most common cause of in-the-line-of-duty deaths, more than three times the number of officers killed in shootings (39), according to the website.