ROCKWALL, Texas — A Greenville police officer killed in the line of duty was laid to rest Tuesday.
Services for fallen Greenville police officer Cooper Dawson began at 10 a.m. at Lakepointe Church in Rockwall.
Officers filed past Dawson's casket before a chaplain led those gathered for the service in prayer.
“We honor him today for being a servant and a protector of our communities,” the chaplain said.
Dawson, 27, was remembered as an "officer's officer" and a family man.
Greenville Police Chief Chris Smith remembered Dawson's contributions to the department at his funeral.
"Cooper changed the dynamic of our team. His enthusiasm changed the way we train," Smith remembered. "Cooper held himself to [a] high standard.”
Cooper's wife, Aubrey, with whom he shared three children, gave an emotional tribute to her husband.
Aubrey said her father also previously worked for the Garland Police Department, like Dawson.
"You gave everything and I will carry that love in my heart always," Aubrey said.
Smith remarked during the service that Dawson will be buried next to two girls killed in the shooting at the Allen Premium Outlets in 2023.
Dawson's sister-in-law also spoke in the service, followed by music and a tribute video.
Following the funeral services, there was a procession to Resthaven Funeral Home. The procession ran east on the East Frontage Road to John King Boulevard.
Dawson died Nov. 26 after he was shot and killed while pursuing a suspect the night before, police said.
Following his death, there was an outpouring of support for Dawson from the community, a memorial formed in front of the Greenville police department and tributes from police departments across North Texas and officials, including Gov. Greg Abbott.
There was a procession to bring Dawson’s remains back into Greenville last week.
Dawson served with the Garland Police Department before joining the Greenville PD and his death marked the first on-duty death in the past 100 years for the Greenville Police Department.
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