DALLAS, Ga. — Tears, salutes and somber filled the West Ridge Church on Friday afternoon as community and family members said goodbye to a Paulding County deputy killed in the line of duty over the weekend.
Deputy Brandon Cunningham, 30, was shot and killed in the line of duty while responding to a domestic dispute last weekend. The sheriff's office called it an "ambush."
The suspect, James Samuel Atkins, later died by suicide after barricading himself inside the home for hours, the Paulding County Sheriff's Office said.
Community members, family and members of the Paulding County Sheriff's Office filled the church pews to support his family.
Moments
Procession to the church
Deputy Cunningham's body arrives in a procession to the church ahead of the funeral.
A sea of men and women in uniforms lined up outside the church. Family members hugged one another as they went inside to continue saying their goodbyes to the deputy.
Brother thanks the sheriff's office for being there for Cunningham in his last moments
"There was nothing he couldn't accomplish. He was my role model, my best friend," Cunningham's brother, Ernesto, said.
He later thanked the Paulding County Sheriff's Office for being there for his brother in his last moments as he held back tears.
His brother was moved by how Cunningham inspired him, and he shared that he looked up to him.
Mother thanks community for support in statement
A family member spoke on behalf of Cunningham's mother, Marie Elena, who thanked the community members for their support.
"It's beautiful to see how many lives and people Brandon touched," she said.
Paulding County Sheriff's Office supervisor reflects on Cunningham's legacy
"He was genuine, kind and full of support," said Cpl. Jacob Martin. "I want Brandon to know he can be at peace because we have it from here."
Paulding County Sheriff shares impact Cunningham left on his community
Sheriff Gary Gulledge started his speech by expressing gratitude to the church and Gov. Brian Kemp, who was also present at the funeral.
"He has touched many lives," the sheriff added.
He continued to read a statement aloud to the audience about a community member Cunningham touched while he was on a call.
"Deputy Cunningham was so kind and patient with his child. I felt like he was an ally I could call on whenever needed. This community has lost a very valuable person," the sheriff read the community member's statement.
Sheriff Gulledge asked his department to stand, telling the family they would always have the deputies to lean on.
Last call ceremony
Dispatchers went over the airwaves to pay tribute to Cunningham.
Community lines streets during procession for fallen deputy
The 11Alive SkyTracker flew over the processional route where dozens of people lined the streets in salute of Cunningham.
He will be buried at Kennesaw Memorial Park.
11Alive's Doug Richards spoke with community members who wanted to pay their respects.
Re-watch the complete funeral services below.