Hundreds of police officers from all over Florida and from different parts of the country attended services for fallen Hillsborough County Deputy John Kotfia, Jr.
He was with force for six years before he was killed by a wrong-way driver last Saturday.
The service was held at St. Timothy's Catholic Church in Lutz.
Dozens of officers from Massachusetts attended the service, because Kotfila was originally from the state.
"It is a brotherhood and the officers and deputies are putting their lives on the line everyday and when something like this happens it brings it home," said Barnstable County Sheriff Jim Cummings.
The Priest shared prayers along with stories about Kotfia's life and dedication to service.
Family members called the service a celebration life.
"He loved to serve, he loved helping other people and said why not make a career out of it," said friend Kyle Murphy.
The services ended with bagpipes, a twenty-gun salute, and the playing of his last call.
"I'm proud and honored to call John a hero today, He earned he deserved it, but like a lot of men and women in this room he was not defined but one moment in time,"said Sheriff David Gee.
Kotfila's body will be buried in his home state of Massachusetts.
Anyone wishing to donate to the family of Deputy John R. Kotfila, Jr. may do so via the Lynn Sowers Memorial Foundation. Click here to donate
