Former Brazoria County sheriff and judge E.J. “Joe” King passed away at 79, as announced by the sheriff’s office. He served as sheriff from 1980 to 2004 and then as county judge from 2007 to 14. Described as a “pillar of the community,” King led improvements in infrastructure and programs. He also had a 12-year trooper career and a U.S. Army stint. Sheriff Stallman praised his positive impact on Brazoria County, and his legacy lives on. A memorial service was held Tuesday at Most Holy Trinity Catholic Church.