ASHEBORO, N.C. (WGHP) -- Asheboro’s police department is grieving after one of their former officers suddenly passed away. Charles “Chuckie” Spencer retired in May of last year after 20 years at the police department. He was just 43 years old when he died on Thursday. Asheboro Police Captain Byron Hill remembers his colleague and friend Spencer as an officer who worked hard to keep the Asheboro community in check. “A big part of what he did was vice narcotics, drug work. That’s really what people knew him as, and so many agencies around the Piedmont Triad and beyond knew him because of the work he did in the field getting dangerous drugs off the streets,” Hill said. Spencer joined the Asheboro Police Department in 2003. He was an eager rookie with a criminal justice degree from Western Carolina University and a desire to help people. For 20 years, he wore the badge with honor, kindness and respect. “He was a man of faith ... Working with him and personally knowing him, I would say he lived out the greatest commandment. He loved God. He loved people,” Hill said. Spencer was promoted to lieutenant in Sept. 2022 and retired at that rank. His career was celebrated by the department. He posed for photos with his trademark smile as he received a plaque. As news of his death was announced on the APD Facebook page, hundreds of comments poured in. Many people recounted stories of how kind he was to them throughout his career. It’s something Hill can attest to personally. “My three little kids ... affectionately called him uncle,” Hill said. Spencer’s legacy is best summed up as kindness at all costs. He was a person Asheboro will always remember. Spencer will be laid to rest on Saturday at 2 p.m. after services at the Oakland Missionary Baptist Church in Ramseur.