MONROE, N.C. -- A race in Union County proves that candidates can win even if they're dead.

Sam Duncan received more than 12,000 votes in the race for Soil and Water Conservation District Supervisor.

More people voted for Duncan, who died Oct.7, than for the two living candidates, including the board's chairman.

Former board member Osco Jackson says many people knew Duncan's name because of his cooking business and his work in the agricultural community.

The board will appoint a replacement for Duncan.