Robert D. “Bobby” Timmons, the longtime executive director of the Alabama Sheriffs Association, died Friday at the age of 91.

Timmons served as the executive director for 47 years, from 1975 until his retirement in 2022.

His death was announced by Jimmy Lambert, who has served in the role since Timmons’ retirement.

Timmons served in the Alabama House of Representatives from 1970 until 1974, and also previously served as the special assistant to former Jefferson County Sheriff Mel Bailey.

He traveled with former Gov. George Wallace during his presidential campaign and worked with him on numerous legislative issues while Wallace was governor.

Timmons was appointed as the Law Enforcement Liaison to the Governor by former Gov. Don Siegelman, serving in that role from 1999 until 2003.

“When I was named to this position in October 2022, I was humbled and honored to follow such an icon,’’ Lambert said. “I may never fill his shoes, but I will continue to represent the sheriffs of our state in the best light possible in honor of Mr. Timmons.”

Sheriffs throughout the state expressed their condolences.

“After meeting him in 1983, I considered Mr. Bobby to be both a mentor and close friend,’’ said Houston County Sheriff Donald Valenza, who is president of the Alabama Sheriffs Association. “He truly a leader and would offer his help to any who needed it, regardless of when. Mr. Bobby will be dearly missed.”

“Bobby Timmons was not just my executive director, he was my friend, my mentor; he taught me everything about being a sheriff,’’ said Montgomery County Sheriff Derrick Cunningham, who served as President of the association in 2020 and 2021. “He was my road map to success. I trusted him and cared for him. But, most importantly, he was my friend.”

Russell County Sheriff Heath Taylor served as president of the association in 2019 and knew Timmons for more than 30 years.

“There has never been anyone on earth who loved the sheriffs more,” Taylor said.

Funeral arrangements have not yet been announced.