Funerals for law enforcement officers are all-too-easy to spot. There are often long lines of slow moving police cars rolling past. Some see them as a headache. Not this UPS driver. When this man saw the funeral procession of Captain Paul Phillips, he pulled his truck over to the side of the road and stood attentively while the procession passed.
“As the procession for Captain Paul Phillips was making its way through Bartlett, [Tennessee],” Fox writes, “it passed a UPS truck on the side of the road. The driver, who has not been identified, stood beside his vehicle in a solemn stance with his arms behind his back.”
The picture, which has been reposted thousands of times now, was originally shared by Haley Harris Smith. The caption read “amazing respect.”
“Captain Paul Phillips served the Bartlett Police Department for more than 25 years. He died on July 11, 2018,” Fox writes.
“It is with great sadness and a heavy heart that we notify the community of the passing of Captain Paul Phillips,” the department wrote. “Captain Phillips faithfully served our community with the Bartlett Police Department since January 1st, 1992. He passed away in the morning of July 11, 2018, at his home. Always joking and eager to make everyone laugh, Captain Phillips was loved by everyone who knew him. Please remember to keep his family and friends in your thoughts and prayers during this difficult time.”
Captain Phillips was buried earlier this week. As is customary, he was given a last call from those with whom he worked in Bartlett.
“You were a friend and mentor to many, and your sense of humor was legendary among those who knew you,” it said. “On behalf of your brothers and sisters in blue, we offer our love and sympathy to your family, friends, and loved ones…Rest easy, sir. We have the watch from here.”
