COWETA COUNTY, Ga. — Coweta County honored fallen Deputy Eric Minix as he was laid to rest Monday afternoon.
On Jan. 4, Minix lost his life in the line of duty following a car chase that crossed into Alabama.
More than 30 different law enforcement agencies paid their respects on Monday at his funeral service.
Minix was described as a deputy, K-9 handler, and investigator.
"He (Minix) caught criminals. And he shooed cows out of the road," one speaker said. "Eric jumped into the fray. He jumped into adversity. And he made peace."
Minix's K-9s Bruno and Robbie lost their best friend. Minix'c's father said his son was nicknamed Roscoe, who loved to joke around and loved to serve and protect.
"Eric loved his family, his kids, and his job. I've never heard him once complain about having to get up and go to work," his father said.
Coweta County Sheriff's Office Chaplain Jeff Smith shared some kind words during service.
"In the blink of an eye, he was in the presence of an almighty God," Smith said.
Smith spoke blessings upon Eric's family.
"May God grant you the peace that the Bible says truly surpasses all understanding," Smith said.
Speakers also said they were hopeful the family's strong faith will help them get through this.
"There's an empty seat where he used to sit," one speaker said. "He's gone, but he's not lost."
Minix won't be forgotten, as hundreds of his brothers in blue from all over the state gave him one final salute. Coweta County Sheriff Lenn Wood said it was overwhelming.
"Outpouring of love and support for a deputy who was killed doing what he loved," Wood said.
After the service, loved ones gathered in the parking lot where there was music from a trumpet and bagpipes, helicopters, and salutes in a beautiful send-off. The moment that stood out for Sheriff Wood was the dispatch's last call.
"The last call for every law enforcement funeral I've been to is just something that touches your heart because you never want to hear it," Wood said.
Eric was referred to as 145. Wood said he'll miss Minix's sense of humor the most.
"145 is just not a number, it's a person," Wood added.
Crossroads Church Pastor Ken Adams left a message for grieving loved ones.
"This is a tough one, but you're going to be OK," Adams said. "And God's going to take care of you."
Minix is survived by his wife, Trina, and his three daughters.