HAMPTON, Va. (WVEC) -- It was a somber day as thousands gathered to remember Virginia State Trooper Chad Dermyer, who was fatally shot in the line of duty last week.
More than 3,000 people filled Liberty Baptist Church in Hampton to pay their final respects to a 37-year-old state trooper who loved police work.
Trooper Dermyer was described as the ultimate professional and a true leader, with a personality that drew people to him.
“The epitome of a leader, somebody people are just drawn to because of his personality,” said Virginia State Police Trooper Cara Begram.
More than 20 state police and highway patrol agencies from as far away as California attended Tuesday's service. They came to say 'thank you' to a man who gave the ultimate sacrifice to protect and serve.
“Some people wonder why the big deal is made out of law enforcement funeral. But, you have to remember the folks out there serving their community. If they’re not going to sign up and do it, and we’re not going to honor that sacrifice, then who is?” Minnesota State Trooper Gabe Corish asked.
Dermyer, who lived in Gloucester County, served as a Newport News police officer before he became a state trooper. Cyndi Grace was Dermyer's partner at the Newport News Police Department.
"Chad Dermyer was an exceptional man, my brother," Grace said. "He will live on forever."
State Police Superintendent Col. W. Steven Flaherty said Dermyer left a lasting impression on everyone who met him.
“His power of observation, his instinct, played out that day and he identified a murderer," Flaherty said. "Unfortunately, he paid the ultimate price for his skill.”
The 37-year-old died at the hospital on March 31 after James Brown III shot him at a Greyhound bus station in Richmond.
"We delivered the Commonwealth's flag last night to his wife. That was a tough moment. And I just want her and the family to know that he'll never be forgotten and his sacrifice wasn't in vain," said Hunter Martin, a sergeant with the Kentucky State Police.
Following the funeral service, there was a private burial at Rosewell Memorial Garden in Hayes that included a 21-gun salute by the USMC.
Dermyer is survived by his wife and two children.
The Virginia State Police Association is accepting donations for the Dermyer family. For more information on where to send that check, click here.
Funeral Procession to Gloucester underway for fallen Trooper Chad Dermyer. More on Trooper Dermyer's funeral: http://on.wvec.com/1MKk6tw
Posted by 13NewsNow (WVEC) on Tuesday, April 5, 2016
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Bagpipes and drum procession for fallen Trooper Dermyer's funeral service. Watch live: https://t.co/I6pS83nGLX pic.twitter.com/SSiec1o2kG
— 13News Now (@13NewsNow) April 5, 2016
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