Fallen State Patrol Sgt. Jim Smith eulogized as a man of integrity, faith and goofy humor Tony Leys, Des Moines Register
Drone video: Iowa State Patrol Sgt. Jim Smith s funeral procession
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INDEPENDENCE, Ia. Iowa State Patrol Sgt. Jim Smith was remembered Friday as a humble leader who leavened a commitment to justice, faith and family with a goofy sense of humor.
“Jim’s superpower was his integrity,” Pastor Paul Heppner told hundreds of mourners gathered at Independence High School. “He was the real deal.”
Smith, 51, was a 27-year veteran of the State Patrol. He led a tactical unit out of Oelwein that often was called to potentially violent situations.
Heppner, interim pastor of Jesup Bible Fellowship, recalled his friend’s habit of playing Christian music, including while on duty. Smith often talked about his faith, including with people who found themselves in the back of his patrol car, the pastor said.
“I’ve been told that he held his audience absolutely captive,” Heppner said, drawing chuckles from the audience. Jim was a sheepdog that protected sheep
State Patrol Col. Nathan Fulk told mourners that Smith’s biggest vice was chocolate milk, which he would buy for himself as a reward when he’d done something well. The serious-looking sergeant loved superhero movies, and he sometimes carried a Superman lunch box.
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Family, friends and community members celebrated the life of Iowa State Trooper Sgt. Jim Smith at his funeral Friday at Independence Community High School.
Among the speakers were current and former pastors from his church, Jesup Bible Fellowship, along with fellow law enforcement officers. Our faith teaches us that in our suffering God is with us, Iowa State Patrol Col. Nathan Fulk said during the service. Jim s priorities were faith, family and his commitment to public service in his community. We re hurting but we re not broken. We are struggling but we re not lost. We re deeply saddened but we will work to find peace in the days ahead.
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