Longtime Howell resident and Monmouth County Director of Public Information Bill Heine died on Sunday, according to a press release from the county.

Heine had covered Superior Court and the Ocean County Prosecutor's Office for the Asbury Park Press for part of the time he worked there as a reporter and editor from 1980-1987.

Heine, who has worked for Monmouth County as the chief spokesman and headed the public information and tourism departments since 2005 reportedly died of natural causes. 

For his work, Heine recently won a nationwide photography contest which was sponsored by the National Association of County Information Officers. The award came for a photo taken during the county's 9/11 10th anniversary service. He also received other awards during his time working with the county. 

Heine also served as the spokesman for the New Jersey Department of Banking and Insurance and the State of New Jersey Public Defender's Office.

For his time with Monmouth County, the press release said, the Howell resident will long be remembered.

"Bill was a consummate professional and touched many people on both a personal and professional level," the press release said. "Bill's keen wit, intellect and attention to detail will be sadly missed by everyone who came in contact with Bill."

Along with his work at the county, the press release said, Heine was also active with the Food Bank of Monmouth and Ocean County and the Howell Little Leagues. 

Funeral arrangements for Heine have not yet been finalized, but will be posted on the Monmouth County website and on Howell Patch.