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Florida law enforcement said their final goodbyes to one of their own Tuesday. Matt Galka tells us about the somber ceremony for a Leon County Sheriff’s Deputy killed over the weekend.

Deputy Chris Smith loved two things: his family, and his job.  There was no length he wasn’t willing to go for either one.

Smith was ambushed and killed over the weekend while doing his duty by responding to a house fire that was intentionally set.  As thousands of police officers from around the state said goodbye to the man they affectionately called “Tater,” they remembered his commitment to the community.

“Wednesday night we were talking about some remodeling we were doing in the church and some of the contractors were asking for some helping hands, and he said ‘Preacher I’d be there but I have to work Saturday.’ Little did we know that would be his last day of work. Brother Chris wanted to be there and help,” said Dr. David Walker who was Smith’s pastor.

The service was attended by local elected officials as well as the Attorney General and the Governor. Governor Rick Scott ordered flags at half staff to honor Smith’s memory.  State Senator Bill Montford said it was tough seeing someone from his district make the ultimate sacrifice.

“It’s a sad day for this community and all of Florida. It’s a good reminder, though, of how important law enforcement and first responders are to us,” said Sen. Montford (D-Tallahassee).

The 47-year-old had been in law enforcement since 1989, and will be forever remembered in the hearts behind badges around the state. Smith was laid to rest in his hometown of Monticello, Florida.